Youth Forum

What is the Youth Forum and what do we do?

The RSBC Youth Forum is a group of blind and partially sighted young people aged between 16 and 25.  We’re committed to creating positive change and championing the voices of vision impaired young people, as well as influencing all areas of work across RSBC.

We work to raise awareness and challenge perceptions of young people with vision impairment. We aim to represent their views and opinions, and highlight the issues that affect them. And we do our best to influence the people who can push for change and help improve services within RSBC itself, as well as other organisations.

The Youth Forum meets regularly with trustees and people across RSBC so that we make sure the voices of blind and visually impaired young people are heard and drive the charity’s services and engagement.

Youth Forum members

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chair-Person

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chairperson

Hey, I’m Zenny! I’m the chair-person and social media ambassador for the youth forum.

I’ve been a part of the Youth Forum for a couple of years now and I joined because I strongly believe that there is no-one better to truly represent and educate others on blindness than those of us who are blind. Outside the Forum, I work within the entertainment industry, specifically voice acting, singing and song-writing. I’ve done some modelling in the past as well. I’m also hoping to start a small vocal coaching business. I’m very excited for the future of the Forum; we’ve got some great ideas and plans in the works.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

My name is Camille Holder. I joined the Youth Forum at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it since.

I first heard about RSBC and the Youth Forum thanks to my specialist teacher, Aimee.  I joined at a difficult time, when I felt very isolated and could not see my friends. This society was appealing to me because I wanted to make a difference and be part of a community. I quickly felt that our voices were being heard, and that together we were understood. Some values that I align myself with are kindness, helpfulness and organisation. I’ve recently graduated from a supported internship, and in my spare time I like to write books for children. Through the Youth Forum, I’ve learnt several new skills, such as how to speak up for myself and how to express my feelings and emotions, as well as asking for help when needed. Most of all, I now feel that I am not alone!

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Hi, I’m Rufus and I’m from East Dulwich, South London.

I’m about to start an internship with Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, working as a patient access coordinator. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, going for walks, seeing friends, and meals out. I decided to join the Youth Forum because I enjoy the RSBC activities and wanted to give back to it. I enjoy the Youth Forum meetings, especially the pizza!

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

My name is Rona Smith, and I am completely blind.

I really like helping others, and I’m passionate about making everyday objects —  such as menus in restaurants — accessible to blind people, so that they can maintain their independence. I currently volunteer monthly for my local theatre. I really feel that I can make a difference and improve the lives of VI young people around the UK. I want to make society more inclusive for VI young people like myself, and smash down the barriers that affect us day to day.  This should help us maintain our independence in the long-term.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Hey! My name is Lauren, and I’m blind.

I’m studying health and social in college, but in my free time I like to play video games, use makeup and experiment with new looks, and advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for vision  impaired people.

As a young blind woman, I aspire to help advocate for the rights of sight impaired people and for those who don’t have a voice. I also like to educate people about living with a visual impairment, challenge misconceptions and raise awareness of sight impairment. I am a massive advocate for self care as a sight impaired person, and showing what it may look like. I want every vision impaired person to know that they do have a place that they belong, and that they deserve to have the same opportunities as our sighted counterparts, whether that be through education, workplaces or the community.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Hello, my name is Mohammed.

I’m a university student, studying a degree in Digital Education. As a fully blind person who has used technology extensively, I hope to make a positive contribution to the Forum through the knowledge I’ve acquired during my studies. I believe technology is truly empowering for people with disabilities, and we should make the most of it to help each other overcome challenges.

I’m also interested in helping to make the internet an accessible facility for all, by bringing to attention accessibility issues when accessing services or websites.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

My name is Alyssia, and I am registered severely sight impaired. I can see light and colour, and I use a cane to navigate.

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, singing and creative writing. I also do judo.

I joined the Youth Forum because I want to make a difference in the lives of young people with a vision impairment. I am passionate about making the world more accessible, to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can live an independent and fulfilling life. I’m also passionate about mental health, and I believe that discussions need to be had about mental health for VI young people.

Kaya, a young person with a light skin tone, has her brown hair tied back as she smiles widely into the camera.

Kaya

Hello, my name is Kaya.

My passion is to support and inspire young visually impaired people to move forward and lead happy and rewarding lives. As a visually impaired person myself, I completely understand the challenges that young VI people experience in life. Our disability does not define who we are as individuals. We can all lead fulfilling and wonderful lives.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chairperson

Hey, I’m Zenny! I’m the chair-person and social media ambassador for the youth forum.

I’ve been a part of the Youth Forum for a couple of years now and I joined because I strongly believe that there is no-one better to truly represent and educate others on blindness than those of us who are blind. Outside the Forum, I work within the entertainment industry, specifically voice acting, singing and song-writing. I’ve done some modelling in the past as well. I’m also hoping to start a small vocal coaching business. I’m very excited for the future of the Forum; we’ve got some great ideas and plans in the works.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

My name is Camille Holder. I joined the Youth Forum at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it since.

I first heard about RSBC and the Youth Forum thanks to my specialist teacher, Aimee.  I joined at a difficult time, when I felt very isolated and could not see my friends. This society was appealing to me because I wanted to make a difference and be part of a community. I quickly felt that our voices were being heard, and that together we were understood. Some values that I align myself with are kindness, helpfulness and organisation. I’ve recently graduated from a supported internship, and in my spare time I like to write books for children. Through the Youth Forum, I’ve learnt several new skills, such as how to speak up for myself and how to express my feelings and emotions, as well as asking for help when needed. Most of all, I now feel that I am not alone!

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Hi, I’m Rufus and I’m from East Dulwich, South London.

I’m about to start an internship with Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, working as a patient access coordinator. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, going for walks, seeing friends, and meals out. I decided to join the Youth Forum because I enjoy the RSBC activities and wanted to give back to it. I enjoy the Youth Forum meetings, especially the pizza!

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

My name is Rona Smith, and I am completely blind.

I really like helping others, and I’m passionate about making everyday objects —  such as menus in restaurants — accessible to blind people, so that they can maintain their independence. I currently volunteer monthly for my local theatre. I really feel that I can make a difference and improve the lives of VI young people around the UK. I want to make society more inclusive for VI young people like myself, and smash down the barriers that affect us day to day.  This should help us maintain our independence in the long-term.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Hey! My name is Lauren, and I’m blind.

I’m studying health and social in college, but in my free time I like to play video games, use makeup and experiment with new looks, and advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for vision  impaired people.

As a young blind woman, I aspire to help advocate for the rights of sight impaired people and for those who don’t have a voice. I also like to educate people about living with a visual impairment, challenge misconceptions and raise awareness of sight impairment. I am a massive advocate for self care as a sight impaired person, and showing what it may look like. I want every vision impaired person to know that they do have a place that they belong, and that they deserve to have the same opportunities as our sighted counterparts, whether that be through education, workplaces or the community.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Hello, my name is Mohammed.

I’m a university student, studying a degree in Digital Education. As a fully blind person who has used technology extensively, I hope to make a positive contribution to the Forum through the knowledge I’ve acquired during my studies. I believe technology is truly empowering for people with disabilities, and we should make the most of it to help each other overcome challenges.

I’m also interested in helping to make the internet an accessible facility for all, by bringing to attention accessibility issues when accessing services or websites.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

My name is Alyssia, and I am registered severely sight impaired. I can see light and colour, and I use a cane to navigate.

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, singing and creative writing. I also do judo.

I joined the Youth Forum because I want to make a difference in the lives of young people with a vision impairment. I am passionate about making the world more accessible, to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can live an independent and fulfilling life. I’m also passionate about mental health, and I believe that discussions need to be had about mental health for VI young people.

Kaya, a young person with a light skin tone, has her brown hair tied back as she smiles widely into the camera.

Kaya

Hello, my name is Kaya.

My passion is to support and inspire young visually impaired people to move forward and lead happy and rewarding lives. As a visually impaired person myself, I completely understand the challenges that young VI people experience in life. Our disability does not define who we are as individuals. We can all lead fulfilling and wonderful lives.

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chairperson

Hey, I’m Zenny! I’m the chair-person and social media ambassador for the youth forum.

I’ve been a part of the Youth Forum for a couple of years now and I joined because I strongly believe that there is no-one better to truly represent and educate others on blindness than those of us who are blind. Outside the Forum, I work within the entertainment industry, specifically voice acting, singing and song-writing. I’ve done some modelling in the past as well. I’m also hoping to start a small vocal coaching business. I’m very excited for the future of the Forum; we’ve got some great ideas and plans in the works.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

My name is Camille Holder. I joined the Youth Forum at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it since.

I first heard about RSBC and the Youth Forum thanks to my specialist teacher, Aimee.  I joined at a difficult time, when I felt very isolated and could not see my friends. This society was appealing to me because I wanted to make a difference and be part of a community. I quickly felt that our voices were being heard, and that together we were understood. Some values that I align myself with are kindness, helpfulness and organisation. I’ve recently graduated from a supported internship, and in my spare time I like to write books for children. Through the Youth Forum, I’ve learnt several new skills, such as how to speak up for myself and how to express my feelings and emotions, as well as asking for help when needed. Most of all, I now feel that I am not alone!

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Hi, I’m Rufus and I’m from East Dulwich, South London.

I’m about to start an internship with Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, working as a patient access coordinator. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, going for walks, seeing friends, and meals out. I decided to join the Youth Forum because I enjoy the RSBC activities and wanted to give back to it. I enjoy the Youth Forum meetings, especially the pizza!

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

My name is Rona Smith, and I am completely blind.

I really like helping others, and I’m passionate about making everyday objects —  such as menus in restaurants — accessible to blind people, so that they can maintain their independence. I currently volunteer monthly for my local theatre. I really feel that I can make a difference and improve the lives of VI young people around the UK. I want to make society more inclusive for VI young people like myself, and smash down the barriers that affect us day to day.  This should help us maintain our independence in the long-term.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Hey! My name is Lauren, and I’m blind.

I’m studying health and social in college, but in my free time I like to play video games, use makeup and experiment with new looks, and advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for vision  impaired people.

As a young blind woman, I aspire to help advocate for the rights of sight impaired people and for those who don’t have a voice. I also like to educate people about living with a visual impairment, challenge misconceptions and raise awareness of sight impairment. I am a massive advocate for self care as a sight impaired person, and showing what it may look like. I want every vision impaired person to know that they do have a place that they belong, and that they deserve to have the same opportunities as our sighted counterparts, whether that be through education, workplaces or the community.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Hello, my name is Mohammed.

I’m a university student, studying a degree in Digital Education. As a fully blind person who has used technology extensively, I hope to make a positive contribution to the Forum through the knowledge I’ve acquired during my studies. I believe technology is truly empowering for people with disabilities, and we should make the most of it to help each other overcome challenges.

I’m also interested in helping to make the internet an accessible facility for all, by bringing to attention accessibility issues when accessing services or websites.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

My name is Alyssia, and I am registered severely sight impaired. I can see light and colour, and I use a cane to navigate.

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, singing and creative writing. I also do judo.

I joined the Youth Forum because I want to make a difference in the lives of young people with a vision impairment. I am passionate about making the world more accessible, to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can live an independent and fulfilling life. I’m also passionate about mental health, and I believe that discussions need to be had about mental health for VI young people.

Kaya, a young person with a light skin tone, has her brown hair tied back as she smiles widely into the camera.

Kaya

Hello, my name is Kaya.

My passion is to support and inspire young visually impaired people to move forward and lead happy and rewarding lives. As a visually impaired person myself, I completely understand the challenges that young VI people experience in life. Our disability does not define who we are as individuals. We can all lead fulfilling and wonderful lives.

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chairperson

Hey, I’m Zenny! I’m the chair-person and social media ambassador for the youth forum.

I’ve been a part of the Youth Forum for a couple of years now and I joined because I strongly believe that there is no-one better to truly represent and educate others on blindness than those of us who are blind. Outside the Forum, I work within the entertainment industry, specifically voice acting, singing and song-writing. I’ve done some modelling in the past as well. I’m also hoping to start a small vocal coaching business. I’m very excited for the future of the Forum; we’ve got some great ideas and plans in the works.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

My name is Camille Holder. I joined the Youth Forum at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it since.

I first heard about RSBC and the Youth Forum thanks to my specialist teacher, Aimee.  I joined at a difficult time, when I felt very isolated and could not see my friends. This society was appealing to me because I wanted to make a difference and be part of a community. I quickly felt that our voices were being heard, and that together we were understood. Some values that I align myself with are kindness, helpfulness and organisation. I’ve recently graduated from a supported internship, and in my spare time I like to write books for children. Through the Youth Forum, I’ve learnt several new skills, such as how to speak up for myself and how to express my feelings and emotions, as well as asking for help when needed. Most of all, I now feel that I am not alone!

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Hi, I’m Rufus and I’m from East Dulwich, South London.

I’m about to start an internship with Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, working as a patient access coordinator. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, going for walks, seeing friends, and meals out. I decided to join the Youth Forum because I enjoy the RSBC activities and wanted to give back to it. I enjoy the Youth Forum meetings, especially the pizza!

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

My name is Rona Smith, and I am completely blind.

I really like helping others, and I’m passionate about making everyday objects —  such as menus in restaurants — accessible to blind people, so that they can maintain their independence. I currently volunteer monthly for my local theatre. I really feel that I can make a difference and improve the lives of VI young people around the UK. I want to make society more inclusive for VI young people like myself, and smash down the barriers that affect us day to day.  This should help us maintain our independence in the long-term.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Hey! My name is Lauren, and I’m blind.

I’m studying health and social in college, but in my free time I like to play video games, use makeup and experiment with new looks, and advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for vision  impaired people.

As a young blind woman, I aspire to help advocate for the rights of sight impaired people and for those who don’t have a voice. I also like to educate people about living with a visual impairment, challenge misconceptions and raise awareness of sight impairment. I am a massive advocate for self care as a sight impaired person, and showing what it may look like. I want every vision impaired person to know that they do have a place that they belong, and that they deserve to have the same opportunities as our sighted counterparts, whether that be through education, workplaces or the community.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Hello, my name is Mohammed.

I’m a university student, studying a degree in Digital Education. As a fully blind person who has used technology extensively, I hope to make a positive contribution to the Forum through the knowledge I’ve acquired during my studies. I believe technology is truly empowering for people with disabilities, and we should make the most of it to help each other overcome challenges.

I’m also interested in helping to make the internet an accessible facility for all, by bringing to attention accessibility issues when accessing services or websites.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

My name is Alyssia, and I am registered severely sight impaired. I can see light and colour, and I use a cane to navigate.

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, singing and creative writing. I also do judo.

I joined the Youth Forum because I want to make a difference in the lives of young people with a vision impairment. I am passionate about making the world more accessible, to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can live an independent and fulfilling life. I’m also passionate about mental health, and I believe that discussions need to be had about mental health for VI young people.

Kaya, a young person with a light skin tone, has her brown hair tied back as she smiles widely into the camera.

Kaya

Hello, my name is Kaya.

My passion is to support and inspire young visually impaired people to move forward and lead happy and rewarding lives. As a visually impaired person myself, I completely understand the challenges that young VI people experience in life. Our disability does not define who we are as individuals. We can all lead fulfilling and wonderful lives.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chairperson

Hey, I’m Zenny! I’m the chair-person and social media ambassador for the youth forum.

I’ve been a part of the Youth Forum for a couple of years now and I joined because I strongly believe that there is no-one better to truly represent and educate others on blindness than those of us who are blind. Outside the Forum, I work within the entertainment industry, specifically voice acting, singing and song-writing. I’ve done some modelling in the past as well. I’m also hoping to start a small vocal coaching business. I’m very excited for the future of the Forum; we’ve got some great ideas and plans in the works.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

My name is Camille Holder. I joined the Youth Forum at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it since.

I first heard about RSBC and the Youth Forum thanks to my specialist teacher, Aimee.  I joined at a difficult time, when I felt very isolated and could not see my friends. This society was appealing to me because I wanted to make a difference and be part of a community. I quickly felt that our voices were being heard, and that together we were understood. Some values that I align myself with are kindness, helpfulness and organisation. I’ve recently graduated from a supported internship, and in my spare time I like to write books for children. Through the Youth Forum, I’ve learnt several new skills, such as how to speak up for myself and how to express my feelings and emotions, as well as asking for help when needed. Most of all, I now feel that I am not alone!

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Hi, I’m Rufus and I’m from East Dulwich, South London.

I’m about to start an internship with Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, working as a patient access coordinator. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, going for walks, seeing friends, and meals out. I decided to join the Youth Forum because I enjoy the RSBC activities and wanted to give back to it. I enjoy the Youth Forum meetings, especially the pizza!

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

My name is Rona Smith, and I am completely blind.

I really like helping others, and I’m passionate about making everyday objects —  such as menus in restaurants — accessible to blind people, so that they can maintain their independence. I currently volunteer monthly for my local theatre. I really feel that I can make a difference and improve the lives of VI young people around the UK. I want to make society more inclusive for VI young people like myself, and smash down the barriers that affect us day to day.  This should help us maintain our independence in the long-term.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Hey! My name is Lauren, and I’m blind.

I’m studying health and social in college, but in my free time I like to play video games, use makeup and experiment with new looks, and advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for vision  impaired people.

As a young blind woman, I aspire to help advocate for the rights of sight impaired people and for those who don’t have a voice. I also like to educate people about living with a visual impairment, challenge misconceptions and raise awareness of sight impairment. I am a massive advocate for self care as a sight impaired person, and showing what it may look like. I want every vision impaired person to know that they do have a place that they belong, and that they deserve to have the same opportunities as our sighted counterparts, whether that be through education, workplaces or the community.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Hello, my name is Mohammed.

I’m a university student, studying a degree in Digital Education. As a fully blind person who has used technology extensively, I hope to make a positive contribution to the Forum through the knowledge I’ve acquired during my studies. I believe technology is truly empowering for people with disabilities, and we should make the most of it to help each other overcome challenges.

I’m also interested in helping to make the internet an accessible facility for all, by bringing to attention accessibility issues when accessing services or websites.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

My name is Alyssia, and I am registered severely sight impaired. I can see light and colour, and I use a cane to navigate.

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, singing and creative writing. I also do judo.

I joined the Youth Forum because I want to make a difference in the lives of young people with a vision impairment. I am passionate about making the world more accessible, to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can live an independent and fulfilling life. I’m also passionate about mental health, and I believe that discussions need to be had about mental health for VI young people.

Kaya, a young person with a light skin tone, has her brown hair tied back as she smiles widely into the camera.

Kaya

Hello, my name is Kaya.

My passion is to support and inspire young visually impaired people to move forward and lead happy and rewarding lives. As a visually impaired person myself, I completely understand the challenges that young VI people experience in life. Our disability does not define who we are as individuals. We can all lead fulfilling and wonderful lives.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chairperson

Hey, I’m Zenny! I’m the chair-person and social media ambassador for the youth forum.

I’ve been a part of the Youth Forum for a couple of years now and I joined because I strongly believe that there is no-one better to truly represent and educate others on blindness than those of us who are blind. Outside the Forum, I work within the entertainment industry, specifically voice acting, singing and song-writing. I’ve done some modelling in the past as well. I’m also hoping to start a small vocal coaching business. I’m very excited for the future of the Forum; we’ve got some great ideas and plans in the works.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

My name is Camille Holder. I joined the Youth Forum at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it since.

I first heard about RSBC and the Youth Forum thanks to my specialist teacher, Aimee.  I joined at a difficult time, when I felt very isolated and could not see my friends. This society was appealing to me because I wanted to make a difference and be part of a community. I quickly felt that our voices were being heard, and that together we were understood. Some values that I align myself with are kindness, helpfulness and organisation. I’ve recently graduated from a supported internship, and in my spare time I like to write books for children. Through the Youth Forum, I’ve learnt several new skills, such as how to speak up for myself and how to express my feelings and emotions, as well as asking for help when needed. Most of all, I now feel that I am not alone!

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Hi, I’m Rufus and I’m from East Dulwich, South London.

I’m about to start an internship with Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, working as a patient access coordinator. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, going for walks, seeing friends, and meals out. I decided to join the Youth Forum because I enjoy the RSBC activities and wanted to give back to it. I enjoy the Youth Forum meetings, especially the pizza!

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

My name is Rona Smith, and I am completely blind.

I really like helping others, and I’m passionate about making everyday objects —  such as menus in restaurants — accessible to blind people, so that they can maintain their independence. I currently volunteer monthly for my local theatre. I really feel that I can make a difference and improve the lives of VI young people around the UK. I want to make society more inclusive for VI young people like myself, and smash down the barriers that affect us day to day.  This should help us maintain our independence in the long-term.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Hey! My name is Lauren, and I’m blind.

I’m studying health and social in college, but in my free time I like to play video games, use makeup and experiment with new looks, and advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for vision  impaired people.

As a young blind woman, I aspire to help advocate for the rights of sight impaired people and for those who don’t have a voice. I also like to educate people about living with a visual impairment, challenge misconceptions and raise awareness of sight impairment. I am a massive advocate for self care as a sight impaired person, and showing what it may look like. I want every vision impaired person to know that they do have a place that they belong, and that they deserve to have the same opportunities as our sighted counterparts, whether that be through education, workplaces or the community.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Hello, my name is Mohammed.

I’m a university student, studying a degree in Digital Education. As a fully blind person who has used technology extensively, I hope to make a positive contribution to the Forum through the knowledge I’ve acquired during my studies. I believe technology is truly empowering for people with disabilities, and we should make the most of it to help each other overcome challenges.

I’m also interested in helping to make the internet an accessible facility for all, by bringing to attention accessibility issues when accessing services or websites.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

My name is Alyssia, and I am registered severely sight impaired. I can see light and colour, and I use a cane to navigate.

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, singing and creative writing. I also do judo.

I joined the Youth Forum because I want to make a difference in the lives of young people with a vision impairment. I am passionate about making the world more accessible, to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can live an independent and fulfilling life. I’m also passionate about mental health, and I believe that discussions need to be had about mental health for VI young people.

Kaya, a young person with a light skin tone, has her brown hair tied back as she smiles widely into the camera.

Kaya

Hello, my name is Kaya.

My passion is to support and inspire young visually impaired people to move forward and lead happy and rewarding lives. As a visually impaired person myself, I completely understand the challenges that young VI people experience in life. Our disability does not define who we are as individuals. We can all lead fulfilling and wonderful lives.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

Zenny, a young person with long black hair and a medium skin tone, wears a grey and white patterned top. She looks serious as she looks away from the camera to the left.

Meet Zenny

Chairperson

Hey, I’m Zenny! I’m the chair-person and social media ambassador for the youth forum.

I’ve been a part of the Youth Forum for a couple of years now and I joined because I strongly believe that there is no-one better to truly represent and educate others on blindness than those of us who are blind. Outside the Forum, I work within the entertainment industry, specifically voice acting, singing and song-writing. I’ve done some modelling in the past as well. I’m also hoping to start a small vocal coaching business. I’m very excited for the future of the Forum; we’ve got some great ideas and plans in the works.

Camille, a young person with black rimmed glasses and long dark hair, wears a black jacket and white shirt and smiles broadly at the camera.

Meet Camille

My name is Camille Holder. I joined the Youth Forum at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it since.

I first heard about RSBC and the Youth Forum thanks to my specialist teacher, Aimee.  I joined at a difficult time, when I felt very isolated and could not see my friends. This society was appealing to me because I wanted to make a difference and be part of a community. I quickly felt that our voices were being heard, and that together we were understood. Some values that I align myself with are kindness, helpfulness and organisation. I’ve recently graduated from a supported internship, and in my spare time I like to write books for children. Through the Youth Forum, I’ve learnt several new skills, such as how to speak up for myself and how to express my feelings and emotions, as well as asking for help when needed. Most of all, I now feel that I am not alone!

Rufus is a young man with short brown hair who wears a blue T shirt. He gives a slight smile as he looks downwards with his eyes closed.

Meet Rufus

Hi, I’m Rufus and I’m from East Dulwich, South London.

I’m about to start an internship with Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, working as a patient access coordinator. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, going for walks, seeing friends, and meals out. I decided to join the Youth Forum because I enjoy the RSBC activities and wanted to give back to it. I enjoy the Youth Forum meetings, especially the pizza!

A head and shoulders shot of Rona, a young person with short brown hair and a happy smile is wearing a white top and looking slightly downwards.

Meet Rona

My name is Rona Smith, and I am completely blind.

I really like helping others, and I’m passionate about making everyday objects —  such as menus in restaurants — accessible to blind people, so that they can maintain their independence. I currently volunteer monthly for my local theatre. I really feel that I can make a difference and improve the lives of VI young people around the UK. I want to make society more inclusive for VI young people like myself, and smash down the barriers that affect us day to day.  This should help us maintain our independence in the long-term.

Lauren, a light-skinned young person with short reddish-brown hair and matching lipstick wears a black top and a necklace as they look into the camera with a steady gaze.

Meet Lauren

Hey! My name is Lauren, and I’m blind.

I’m studying health and social in college, but in my free time I like to play video games, use makeup and experiment with new looks, and advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for vision  impaired people.

As a young blind woman, I aspire to help advocate for the rights of sight impaired people and for those who don’t have a voice. I also like to educate people about living with a visual impairment, challenge misconceptions and raise awareness of sight impairment. I am a massive advocate for self care as a sight impaired person, and showing what it may look like. I want every vision impaired person to know that they do have a place that they belong, and that they deserve to have the same opportunities as our sighted counterparts, whether that be through education, workplaces or the community.

A head and shoulders image of Mohammed, a medium skinned young person with dark hair and stubble, wears a black T shirt as he looks downwards with a serious expression.

Meet Mohammed

Hello, my name is Mohammed.

I’m a university student, studying a degree in Digital Education. As a fully blind person who has used technology extensively, I hope to make a positive contribution to the Forum through the knowledge I’ve acquired during my studies. I believe technology is truly empowering for people with disabilities, and we should make the most of it to help each other overcome challenges.

I’m also interested in helping to make the internet an accessible facility for all, by bringing to attention accessibility issues when accessing services or websites.

Alyssia, a medium light skinned person, sits on a train reading something intently on her mobile phone. She wears glasses and a yellow shirt and the countryside is visible out of the window beside her.

Meet Alyssia

My name is Alyssia, and I am registered severely sight impaired. I can see light and colour, and I use a cane to navigate.

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, singing and creative writing. I also do judo.

I joined the Youth Forum because I want to make a difference in the lives of young people with a vision impairment. I am passionate about making the world more accessible, to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can live an independent and fulfilling life. I’m also passionate about mental health, and I believe that discussions need to be had about mental health for VI young people.

Kaya, a young person with a light skin tone, has her brown hair tied back as she smiles widely into the camera.

Kaya

Hello, my name is Kaya.

My passion is to support and inspire young visually impaired people to move forward and lead happy and rewarding lives. As a visually impaired person myself, I completely understand the challenges that young VI people experience in life. Our disability does not define who we are as individuals. We can all lead fulfilling and wonderful lives.

Our Manifesto

The Youth Forum has worked on a Manifesto that lays out our aims, values and beliefs. We’ve focused on three key areas:

  1. Transport
  2. Mental health
  3. Employment and education
Find out more

Eyes on

Get to know us better! Here’s where you can learn more about what our members have been up to, and hear first hand the things we care about…

 

 

Transcript 

00:00:00.480 –> 00:00:02.500
Rona Smith, Eyes On piece.

00:00:03.280  –> 00:00:04.800
My name is Rona Smith.

00:00:04.800 –> 00:00:08.260
I am twenty two years old, and I live in Oxfordshire.

00:00:09.025 –> 00:00:18.710
I am a dedicated youth forum member, and I am committed to my studies at the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford.

 

Read More

Podcasts

Tune in to the Youth Forum’s RSBC’s Unseen podcast, and tap into conversations that young people are having. They’re driven by young people themselves, and cover a wide variety of topics. These podcasts are a fabulous way to gain insight into things we care about.

Find out more