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Spotlight on Arts with Aaron Todd

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In this episode, host John Coster speaks with Aaron Todd—a youth worker from Leicestershire Cares—about his personal creative journey and how he uses arts-based projects to engage and empower young people. The discussion centres on Aaron’s formative experiences with drawing and music, his time in prison, and the pivotal role creativity played in helping him turn his life around. Now, he channels these insights into his work with at-risk youth, emphasizing the importance of giving them platforms—such as podcasting, music production, and content creation—to express themselves and develop valuable skills.

A core message that emerges is the power of participatory experience in arts and creative practice. By inviting people to record music, produce podcasts, or film videos, Aaron fosters an environment where young people can discover new skills, build confidence, and form positive peer connections. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes, he highlights the process of experimentation, learning, and collaboration as essential elements that encourage personal development and self-reflection.

Key Themes & Discussion Points

  • Early Inspiration Through Art and Music: Aaron recalls how early experiences with drawing and DIY music made him realize the transformative potential of creative activity.
  • Personal Growth and Rehabilitation: Reflecting on his incarceration, Aaron describes how access to recording equipment and creative outlets allowed him and others to explore their emotions, confront past actions, and channel their energies in constructive ways.
  • Hands-On Learning and Mentorship: Aaron’s work at Leicestershire Cares offers practical, real-world training in content creation—podcasting, music production, graphic design—while addressing underlying issues such as housing, employment, and education.
  • Empowering Young People’s Voices: Through arts-based projects, participants are encouraged to lead, share their stories, and explore new pathways. By producing their own creative content, they gain confidence and learn how to present themselves in public and professional contexts.
  • Sustainability and Community Impact: Aaron underlines the need for ongoing support—both funding and community partnerships—so that youth initiatives can continue beyond one-off sessions, fostering long-term personal and social transformation.

    • Why Participatory Experience Matters

    The conversation repeatedly highlights that being involved and hands-on is what drives lasting change. Allowing young people to learn by doing—whether that’s recording a track, filming a short video, or producing a podcast—gives them ownership of the process and a sense of achievement. These participatory practices promote crucial life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and self-awareness, demonstrating how creativity can shape positive futures even for those who have faced significant obstacles.

    This episode of Spotlight on Arts is a compelling reminder of how arts-based engagement can serve as a catalyst for youth empowerment, reinforcing the idea that creativity is not just an activity, but a vital tool for personal and community development.

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