The Flamingo Chicks’ Agents of Change (AOC) is our youth leadership programme for disabled children.
The Agents of Change (AOC) are an elected body of 40 disabled and non-disabled young people aged 4-18 who represent their peers, lead our organisation and campaign for a fair future for disabled children. The Agents of Change programme and its sessions are underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Our AOC’s have performed and spoken on some of the biggest platforms in the world! From No.10 Downing Street and the House of Commons to the United Nations in New York, this impressive group of young people are determined to break down barriers and make their mark on the world.
“Elliott finds the Agents of Change hugely empowering. He enjoys how interactive and inclusive it is and it’s helped him to know that new friendships are possible. He’s learnt something for and about himself but he can also reciprocate, support and help others. Having a greater understanding of how others might communicate and be included is key to his acceptance of his own and others’ differences. For children like Elliott who are often on the periphery, The Agents of Change programme is wonderful and offers him something really special.”
Tracey, AOC Elliott’s Mum
The Agents of Change programme
Our change-makers take part in regular development workshops as well as unique, special opportunities. Underpinned by a core theme and featuring some incredible VIP guests, these sessions aim to inspire our young advocates to further their leadership skills and realise their potential. The AOC’s also volunteer within their communities, undertaking accessibility audits and advising large companies on how to be more accessible. Recent audits include the Science Museum in London and Complete Control, the leading children’s digital agency.
Recent workshops and guests:
- Interviewing the CEO of the Paralympics GB, Mike Sharrock
- Costume-making with the English National Ballet’s costume designer
- Meeting actors such as Joe Sims and CBeebies stars, Joseph Elliot and Richard David-Caine, to explore diversity on screen
- Presenting and interviewing skills with TV presenters Laura Tobin (Good Morning Britain) and Rowan Bridge (BBC)
- A hands-on STEM session with NASA scientist, Anna Horleston
- Exploring diversity with Paralympian and Strictly Star Will Bayley
- Public speaking with CEO of the Diana Award, Tessy Ojo
- Breaking down barriers on TV, with Great British Bake Off star Briony May Williams
- Challenging stereotypes, with FIFA referee Vikki Allan
- Building emergency shelters, with Humanitarian Architect Nico Garcia Mayor
- Working around the world, with UN Advisor Fred Dubee
- Understanding money, with Financial Activist and children’s author Rob Gardner
- Accessible art, with Mouth Painter Rosaleen Moriarty-Simmonds OBE
- Tackling climate change, with Surfers Against Sewage
- Mindfulness with Junk Jodie
- Meeting inspiring performers such as Beth Hinton-Lever and Iain Mackay
- Communication workshops, such as Makaton signing
The AOC’s are always on the look out for exciting opportunities to meet and interview inspiring individuals (via Zoom!) – if this is you, or if you are interested in becoming an Agent of Change, please get in touch with the Agents of Change Project Manager, Rhiannon.
