Bristol launches bold vision to close its equality gap

A bold new vision to close the equality gap in Bristol launches this November.

OurCity2030 is a city-wide initiative designed to support young people from low income households in inner-city Bristol to secure meaningful careers by 2030. With ambitions to expand this across Bristol and beyond in the future.

Introducing OurCity2030

Driven by Babbasa and the City Office, the vision is now included as a goal in Bristol’s One City Plan in pursuit of a fairer future for young people in the city. The launch is timely, following directly after Black History Month which this year carries the theme: Time for Change: Action Not Words. 

The prestigious launch event will be opened by Bristol Mayor, Marvin Rees, and takes place at The Wills Memorial Building. It is expected to be attended by business and community leaders from across the city, along with young people. The launch will mark the conclusion of two years of research, planning and consultation. Guests will get a first glance at Arup sponsored research which reveals the current equality gap that exists in Bristol, and the industries that could provide the most opportunity for some of Bristol’s most disadvantaged young people. The event will also be an opportunity to hear from young people who have been supported by Babbasa to access further education and meaningful employment, and the impact that has had on their lives. 

Poku Osei, CEO of Babbasa, comments: “The last two years has involved considerable consultation across Bristol business, education, community, and public institutions. Our launch event will evidence the issues we know exist in Bristol, issues that were exacerbated by the pandemic and are now being further exacerbated by the cost of living and energy crisis."

“The time for change is now and I’m excited to share Bristol’s bold plan to help its less advantaged young people to achieve their aspirations, whilst supporting business to access the brilliant and diverse talent and inclusion support which is so fundamental to Bristol’s sustainable growth and success."

Mayor Marvin Rees adds “The OurCity2030 vision and programme will serve as a key driver to achieving the goals of the One City Plan. A fairer future for young people in Bristol is key to future success as a city and I’m incredibly excited to see this blueprint launch. I look forward to Bristol further leading the way in driving equality as we move into 2023."

On the evening guests can expect to experience a night to remember with event sponsors Purplefish, Our Media, Team Love, SLX, McCann Bristol and McCann Synergy coming together to deliver a plethora of creative executions throughout the evening that will excite, dismay and unite the audience. Speakers will share the ask to the guests and their organisations, encouraging those in attendance to pledge support and consider becoming ambassadors for OurCity2030. 

Get involved

Many Bristol-based businesses have already pledged involvement through sponsorship of the programme included Nisbet Trust, Pytch Studio and Silverback films. Others are being encouraged to review their recruitment and work experience policies through an accessibility lens.

If you are a Bristol-based business, community partner or young person who would like to attend the event or find out more about the OurCity2030 vision, please contact ourcity2030@byep.org.uk.