Bedfordshire Uprisers in Dragons’ Den style challenge

On Monday, March 10, 20 young people will present their ideas for social change in Bedfordshire to a hundred key decision makers from across the county.

Each group is pitching for the top prize of £500, runners up will each receive £150.

The Dragons’ Den style event is hosted by UpRising and the Bedfordshire Rotary Clubs at the University of Bedfordshire grounds between 7pm and 9.30pm.

During the evening four groups of 19-25 year olds will pitch their Social Action Campaign ideas in the hope of winning the prize money to spend on their project.

The event will be held at the University of Bedfordshire’s Putteridge Bury campus and welcomed by Vice Chancellor and Uprising ambassador Bill Rammell.

He said: “It’s a chance for the university to support young people and a chance for these young people to make a real difference in their communities. We are delighted to be hosting the event, which further strengthens our partnership and shared mission with UpRising.”

UpRising is an award-winning youth leadership development organisation, which has been running in Bedford since 2011. In 2013 the programme extended into Luton and this year it plans to increase the programme intake across Bedfordshire.

The programme aims to open pathways to power and opportunities for a diverse range of talented young people.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis is presenting the prizes for the second year, and said: “This event provides an excellent opportunity for these young people to have their ideas and voices heard, in front of professional, business and community leaders from across Bedfordshire. I am looking forward to a lively and informative evening!”

The evening will also include a ‘Skills Auction’ with prizes donated by former UpRisers including a Bengali makeover experience, a social media tutorial and help with a UCAS personal statement from a current University of Bedfordshire lecturer.