Young children can celebrate their local heroes at series of storytelling events across Portsmouth
Commmunity sessions will encorage youngsters to ask questions, listen deeply and discover the inspirational people shaping their own communities
Who inspires you?
That is the question being asked in a series of storytelling events being held for young people across Portsmouth this week to ‘celebrate local heroes and young creators’. The sessions are being run by Pamodzi Creatives and are designed to show children the power of words and the importance of connecting communities.
All are welcome to attend the events which will bring young voices, local role models, and inspiring stories together, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate creativity, confidence and the positive impact of community storytelling.
Roni Wilson, CEO of Pamodzi Creatives, said: “Our children’s storybook project is about far more than creating books. It’s about giving young people the confidence to ask questions, listen deeply, and discover the inspirational people shaping their own communities. By interviewing local role models and transforming their journeys into stories for children, they’re learning that success, resilience and kindness exist right on their own doorstep.’
The first session was held this morning at Paulsgrove Library with a second following at St Mary’s Church in Fratton this evening from 6pm to 7pm. The next are:
Tomorrow (Tuesday, August 11): Central Library 9:30 -10:30am , Southsea Library 12pm to 1pm and Darwin House 6pm to 7pm;
Wednesday, August 12: Nickleby House 6pm to 7pm
Thursday, August 13: Beddow Library 9:30am to 10:30am.
The storytelling sessions will feature performances of stories developed by young writers from Urbond, Unloc, and 432 Nomads, supported by talented illustrators and storytellers. The events aim to inspire children to think about who inspires them, while introducing them to local heroes whose journeys demonstrate success, resilience and kindness.
Roni added: ‘There’s a saying that ‘you can’t be what you can’t see,’ and that’s why representation matters. When children see people from their own communities making a positive difference, it raises aspirations and helps them believe that their own dreams are within reach. At Pamodzi Creatives, we use storytelling to inspire deeper connection and help people feel seen, valued, and empowered. We hope these books not only celebrate the remarkable people who inspire us today but also encourage the next generation to believe that one day, they too can inspire others.’