Paignton concert empowered Devon's young musicians

The voice of youth in Torbay and South Devon was heard loud and clear at a special concert in Paignton.

Sound Communities is a community interest company based in Paignton dedicated to empowering marginalised young people in South Devon through creativity and connection using radio, music and digital media production.

They put on a 'Celebration of Impact' event to showcase live performances from young people across South Devon and Torbay at Stage Left at the Palace Theatre.

Above: Lewis Jackson playing live

A spokesman said: "Young people across Torbay face many issues. High levels of deprivation, a challenging job market and ongoing risk of harms from social media mean that many young people can struggle.

"So it was great to celebrate the success and achievements of Sound Communities. The organisation has enabled young people to find their voice and aspiration, as well as learn professional skills and employability through being creative. "

Speaking about the event, Anna Woźniak, Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Dyme Consulting Group, said: "It was a masterclass in leadership and impact showcasing and a true testament to the work you and the Sound Communities team do for the young people they serve.  The methodology should be best practice everywhere.”

The event was attended by Torbay and South Devon leaders and decision makers, representing Westminster, Torbay Council, Public Health, national charities, music, arts and performance organisations. And – of course- it was delivered by the incredible young people themselves.

Above: The crowd at the Celebration of Impact Event February 2025

The spokesman said: "The warmth created by the support in the room, the energy of our young performers, and the shared passion for our work made it an unforgettable evening. Sound Communities is incredibly proud of the young people and staff who worked so hard to make this event happen- their hard work, talent, and passion made the night truly special."

An attendee added: "The energy, talent, and authenticity on that stage were simply extraordinary… the young people are natural performers—not just in their artistry but in their confidence, passion, and presence." 

Sound Communities CIC Director Mike Cook says: "It was quite a night of celebration for Sound Communities and we are proud to have quite literally transformed the lives of local young people who are most in need. In the past year alone we’ve seen remarkable transformations—young people starting a mental health podcast series, launching their own record label, performing live across the country and being nominated at national awards like the ARIAS and Youth Music Awards. But beyond this, it’s the life-changing impact on their mental health and the sense of belonging they find with us that matters most. Through Sound Communities young people feel they are listened to and have ownership over their futures. They find employment and discover new meanings to the direction of their lives.”

Above: Sound Communities Director Kate Rudman on stage at the Celebration of Impact Event 

Sound Communities CIC Director Kate Rudman said: "The young people Sound Communities work with can find themselves marginalised through many factors - through exclusion from mainstream schooling, or due to issues around deprivation and lack of opportunity. Sound Communities work with a number of different services to support young people in their next steps through creativity, usually first meeting them when they are at their most vulnerable. The event will give a taste of the extraordinary work our staff and young people have achieved this past year.”