Report by Latisha Richards, 16, West Bromwich

‘Be Proud’ are events across Sandwell’s six towns to celebrate people’s achievements and aspirations. I have visited many of the events, and the first one kicked off in Rowley Regis on 17^th June at the Salvation Army. The event include information from how to get active in Sandwell, information on connexions, to the local fire service. Also at the events were performances and speeches by various groups and people who have made their town and Sandwell proud. There were various performances throughout the day including;

- dance groups
- singers
- speakers
(about changes and developments they’ve made in Sandwell and the Sandwell Shadow Youth Cabinet.)

The event stopped at all six towns with a wide range of activities there on site. At Rowley Regis they had a blender which was powered by the bicycle: you would choose the fruit and juice to accompany it then ride the bike to mix it and then enjoy the drink afterwards.  It then moved on to Wednesbury on 22^ndJune at Sant Nirankari Centre. They had a great food selection there. After this it moved on to Smethwick on 24^th June at Victoria Park Primary School and the Ron Davis Centre. Following this it travelled to Tipton on 1^st July at the Tipton Sports Academy. Next was Oldbury on 9^th July at the Oldbury council house where I took part in some belly dancing with the belly dance instructor herself and Adam Price, who is the Chair of the Sandwell Shadow Youth Cabinet. This was very exciting as I’ve never tried belly dancing before. The last stop was West Bromwich on 10^th July at the Public, where ‘Dreemz’ from Last Choir Standing performed several songs where everyone was keen to watch and they were fantastic.

Overall, the event was a huge success with great turn outs to each and every one of them and all contributions, volunteers and people that performed or spoke made Sandwell very proud!