What happens when young people are allowed to shape their own community?
At Firefly, we’ve seen firsthand the impact that genuine youth participation can have.
In 2025, the Squids on Show Youth Voice Project engaged young people in conversations about belonging, connection and opportunities in their community. One message came through loud and clear: young people want meaningful opportunities to express themselves, connect with others and contribute to something bigger than themselves.
This year, those conversations have continued.
While the success of Burton St. Beats demonstrated the appetite for youth-led music events, many young people have told us their interests extend beyond bands and live music. They are passionate about dance, spoken word, poetry, comedy, theatre and a wide range of creative pursuits that deserve to be celebrated and supported.
That’s where Symphony of Souls began.
Starting with Listening
Too often, programs and events are designed for young people without involving them in the process.
The Symphony of Souls Youth Voice Project takes a different approach.
Rather than assuming what young people want, we’re asking them directly. Through a community survey, we’re gathering ideas, interests and aspirations from young people aged 10–24 to understand what a youth-led performing arts festival could look like.
The survey is a vital first step in the co-design process. It allows young people to influence the vision from the very beginning and helps ensure any future project reflects their interests, talents and needs.
Why Data Matters
Passion and good ideas are important, but community projects also need evidence.
The information gathered through the Symphony of Souls survey will help us understand:
- What types of performing arts are young people interested in
- How many young people would like to participate
- What opportunities are currently missing
- What barriers do young people face in accessing creative activities
- How a youth-led performing arts festival could benefit the community
This data will help strengthen future funding applications, sponsorship proposals and community partnerships.
Most importantly, it ensures that the voices of young people themselves inform decisions.
Creativity Builds Wellbeing and Belonging
Creative pursuits offer much more than entertainment.
Whether it’s performing on stage, writing poetry, dancing, acting or making people laugh, the arts provide opportunities for self-expression, confidence building and personal growth.
Creative activities can help young people:
- Build social connections
- Strengthen their sense of belonging
- Develop new skills and confidence
- Express their identity and ideas
- Contribute positively to their community
When young people are connected, valued and empowered, communities become stronger.
A Community Vision
Symphony of Souls is still in its early stages, but the vision is simple: create opportunities for young people to lead, perform, connect and shine.
As we prepare to present the concept to community partners and potential sponsors later this year, we’re inviting young people to help shape what comes next.
If you know a young person who loves music, dance, spoken word, comedy, theatre or performance, we’d love to hear from them.
Complete the Symphony of Souls Youth Voice Survey
Together, we can build a project that celebrates creativity, strengthens wellbeing and showcases the incredible talent of young people in the Bay & Basin.