Watch: Why the Be Bold Birmingham campaign has launched

As the Commonwealth Games shines a spotlight on the city, the Be Bold, Be Birmingham campaign has launched with a bid to no longer let Birmingham be seen as the second city - but as a pioneering city of firsts. Councillor Ian Ward visited Free@Last, a youth charity and hub for many future titans, to find out more about the work they do.

Free@Last sets out to provide support and opportunity for the young people of Nechells, one of Birmingham’s most deprived communities. See volunteer Chantelle Scott tell of the difference it is making in the local neighbourhood.

Cllr Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, says: “Well, I’m here today to look at one of the Be Bold initiatives connected with the Commonwealth Games.

“This particular one is ‘I’m Proud Because’, this strand looks to engage with communities around the city. So they get an opportunity to showcase what they’re doing, as part of this wonderful place called Birmingham.

“Many of these groups and individuals are unsung heroes of the city. And we’ve seen a lot of that today, here at this, this youth centre where they’re doing incredible work to transform the lives of children and young people here in Nechells.”

Chantelle says: “I love Nechells, because Free@Last is in the area. And I’ve seen it take people that I love off the streets and put them into better habits and better lifestyle choices.

“And when I was asked to do a video for ‘I Am Proud Because’ I was really happy to talk about the work that we do here. My mom did come here and she realised how much it took her and her friends off the street because it’s really easy to fall into that trap in an area like this.

“So she told me she doesn’t want me out till late doing things and messing around. So she brought me here. And first of all, it was a bit silly, like, I’m just involved in the charity. But then I actually started thinking, wow, like I’m doing good things for myself. People are recognising me. And I’m helping other people as well as myself.”

The Commonwealth Games is just around the corner, inspiring the city, and offering an opportunity to showcase the amazing people who make Birmingham the great city it is.

Cllr Ian Ward says: “Well, the Commonwealth Games is giving all of the communities in Birmingham the opportunity to show what they have to offer and what part they play in the life of the city of Birmingham.

“The Games, of course, provide us with a platform both nationally and internationally to demonstrate what the people of this city are about to the entirety of the world.”

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