About Leys Youth Space

At Leys Youth Space, our mission is to create an inclusive and empowering environment that cultivates the growth, development, and well-being of the youth in the Leys area of Oxford. We are committed to providing a safe and engaging space where young people can explore their interests, develop valuable life skills, and connect with a supportive community.

Our primary objective is to foster a sense of belonging and identity among the youth, acknowledging their unique talents, aspirations, and challenges. We believe that by offering a range of diverse activities, workshops, and resources, we can inspire and equip young individuals to thrive personally, academically, and socially.

We are dedicated to:

1. Empowerment: Empowering young people to discover their potential, build self-confidence, and develop leadership skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
2. Education: Providing a platform for continuous learning by offering workshops, talks, and resources that cover a wide spectrum of subjects, from practical life skills to personal development.
3. Inclusivity: Ensuring that every young person, regardless of background, abilities, or circumstances, feels welcomed and valued within our community.
4. Collaboration: Fostering collaboration between local organizations, community members, and young individuals to create a supportive network that nurtures positive growth.
5. Creativity: Encouraging and celebrating artistic expression, creativity, and innovation, allowing young people to explore their passions and showcase their talents.
6. Healthy Lifestyle: Promoting physical and mental well-being through engaging sports activities, wellness workshops, and discussions that address relevant health-related topics.
7. Community Engagement: Creating a space where young people can actively contribute to their community, fostering a sense of responsibility and social awareness.
8. Long-Term Impact: Establishing a sustained presence in the Leys area through our ongoing "Open Space" project, ensuring that the benefits of our initiatives endure and continue to positively influence the lives of young individuals.

Through the Leys Youth Space, we aim to inspire 

a generation of resilient, empowered, and socially conscious young leaders who will make meaningful contributions to their community and the world at large. Our mission is to provide the guidance, resources, and opportunities necessary for them to embark on their unique journeys toward a brighter future.

At Leys Youth Space, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive and engaging program that caters to the diverse interests and developmental needs of the youth in the Leys area of Oxford. Our program is designed to empower, educate, and inspire young individuals through a variety of activities, workshops, and events that promote personal growth and community engagement.

 1. Monthly Workshops and Talks 

Life Skills Workshops: Practical sessions focusing on essential life skills such as communication, financial literacy, time management, and problem-solving.

Career Development Talks: Guest speakers from various industries share insights into career pathways, education options, and tips for success in the professional world.

Wellness Workshops: Discussions on mental health, stress management, mindfulness, and techniques for maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Artistic Expression Workshops: Creative sessions encompassing visual arts, music, writing, and other forms of artistic expression.

 2. Sports and Physical Activities 

Involvement in Oxford Youth Active sports programs and other Oxford sports organisations

 3. Community Engagement 

Volunteer Initiatives: Opportunities for youth to engage in community service projects, fostering a sense of responsibility and giving back.

Local Initiatives: Collaboration with local organizations for events such as neighbourhood clean-ups, charity drives, and awareness campaigns.

 4. Creative Outlets 

Art Exhibitions: Showcasing the artistic creations of youth in the Leys area, encouraging creativity and self-expression.

Open Mic Nights: Platform for young performers to share their talents in music, spoken word, and other forms of artistic expression.

 5. Special Events 

Leys Youth Fest: Annual festival celebrating youth activities, featuring stalls, talks, sports, and interactive experiences for the whole community.

Youth Leadership Summit: Gathering of young leaders to discuss pressing issues, share ideas, and collaborate on community initiatives.

 6. Mentorship and Support 

Mentorship Program: Pairing youth with mentors from various fields to provide guidance, advice, and encouragement.

Academic Support: Tutoring sessions and study groups to assist youth with their academic pursuits.

 7. Personal Development 

Goal-Setting Workshops: Helping youth define and work towards their personal and professional goals.

Leadership Development: Building leadership skills through workshops, projects, and hands-on experiences.

•  8. Cultural and Diversity Awareness 

Cultural Celebrations: Events highlighting the diverse cultural backgrounds present in the community.

Diversity Discussions: Panels and workshops promoting dialogue and understanding about different cultures and perspectives.

Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers are passionate about helping young people achieve their full potential. We have a diverse group of individuals with a wide range of skills and experience, all united by a commitment to making a difference in the lives of youth.

Coordinator and leader of Leys Youth Space - 

Ewa Gluza:

Ewa  is a passionate community organizer and role model known for her commitment to fostering dialogue and inclusion. It has organized a variety of cultural and sporting events, bridging the gaps between Oxford's communities through music, film, workshops and exhibitions. Ewa's compassion extends to vulnerable groups where she has worked with the elderly, the homeless, refugees and the disabled. Her leadership in coordinating initiatives including helping Ukrainian refugees, running Leys Fete, Santa events, heritage workshops at the Pitte Rivers Museum, and supporting International Women's Day celebrations shows her commitment. As a co-founder of the Oxford Polish Association and member of its advisory boards, Ewa has a wide influence. Her roles on Blackbird Leys Parish Council and member of Oxford International Links exemplify her commitment to the well-being and development of the local community.

Contact: ewa@leysyouthspace.com