30.09.2025 | Blog
#HopeNotHoops: Creativity, community & opportunity at Turning Tides’ youth photography exhibition
Last week, Turning Tides proudly hosted a powerful exhibition showcasing the talent of two budding young local photographers – and demonstrating how the right support can nurture hopes, aspirations and confidence.
At the Kirkleatham Walled Garden Plantation in Redcar, Yorkshire, the emotive work of Finn and Alice – capturing the stunning coastal landscapes of their home – was publicly displayed for the first time.
Under the guidance of Thomas Harvey, Turning Tides’ Youth Engagement Worker and a recent photography graduate, participants on the programme have been developing professional photography skills while using the medium as a tool for self-expression and emotional wellbeing. They also received business mentorship from Ainsley Mullen, Enterprise Lead at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, to empower them to explore photography not just as an art form, but as a potential entrepreneurial pathway.
A highlight of the week was the exhibition private view, which brought together public health, local authority, and education leaders, supporters and partners, as well as local MP Anna Turley, to celebrate the young talent… the latter of whom would like to display some of the art in her office in the Cabinet Office, to hang as a bold, beautiful reminder of the impact of investing in our young people.
Because young people continue to face growing challenges. This exhibition aimed to spotlight the urgent need for preventative mental wellbeing support for young people – while also celebrating the strength of this person-centred outcomes partnership (funded by Anglo American) and the positive impact of community-led initiatives.
Finn (18) reflected: “Other wellbeing support services were too robotic and I didn’t open up. With [Turning Tides] coaching I was able to talk more openly about things I had never talked about before, because I was comfortable on my bike with my coach.”
Katie Cowie, Programme Manager at Turning Tides, shared: “This exhibition is a testament to the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of young people in Redcar and Cleveland. Through photography, they’ve found a powerful way to express themselves, build self-confidence, and connect with their community. It’s a shining example of what’s possible when we invest in preventative mental wellbeing support and work together to empower the next generation.”
Matt Parsons, Head of Social Performance for Anglo American Crop Nutrients, added: “We’re proud of the young people who have inspired this exhibition. Their creativity and courage in sharing their stories through photography is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we invest in early support and listen to young voices. As a pilot, Turning Tides is already demonstrating the impact of community-led preventative support and the value of designing solutions hand-in-hand with young people and local partners.”
Finn and Alice’s photos are more than just a visual expression of personal growth and resilience; they are a testament to what young people can achieve when they’re supported, believed in, and given the space to dream.
About Turning Tides
Turning Tides is a community-led wellbeing and resilience programme supporting young people aged 15-21 across Scarborough & Whitby and Redcar & Cleveland. Established in 2024 and funded by Anglo American, the programme offers personalised coaching and connects young people with local opportunities to help them build confidence, resilience, and independence. Delivery partners include The Junction Foundation, Sidewalk Youth Project, and The Link Charitable Trust.
