Last week saw the final of the 2019 Digital Disruptors programme. Our mission has been to offer young individuals a better understanding of all things digital, first hand from industry experts. This year, our participants went on an exciting journey through the world of digital marketing, partaking in multiple workshops across London. We then organised them into teams and challenged them to come up with a social/video channel that serves a specific purpose and cause.
This year, I have been lucky enough to be directly involved with the programme as a team mentor. It has been a true inspiration to witness first-hand the desire, motivation and belief that these youngsters, who have an average age of 16, possess. It’s a certainty that they all have very bright futures ahead of them.
Shortly before the finalists took to the stage at the Old Billingsgate, during the PI Live Conference, this below video was played to the audience. It gives a great insight into the journey our Disruptors took, leading right up to the final.
The time had come for our finalists to present their ideas to the four judges, in a ‘Dragons Den’ style setup. The atmosphere was scintillating and the stage was set. Even for a seasoned professional public speaker, the setting was a daunting one to say the least. Live, in front of a crowd of several hundred (who were there in attendance of the PI Live Event), the Digital Disruptor finalists took to the stage.
What happened next completely blew me, my colleagues and all of the judges away. Every single team took to the stage and wholeheartedly smashed it. They delivered thoughtful, compelling and emotive presentations that captivated the room and demanded attention. Here’s a wrap up video of the final:
Whilst every team deserved to win in their own right, there could only be one in the end. This year’s trophy went to Cairo Whittingham, Djenne Black, Mabinta Kendah and Excellent Longange. Together, they came up with the concept of Chang3, a YouTube Docu-series that would focus on Knife Crime in its first series. The presentation began by using the powerful images of victims of knife crime which instantly captivated the audience and judges. They then set out a cohesive business plan that communicated clearly how they would fund the series, utilising merchandise revenue to invest back into communities affected by knife crime, as well as charities that are able to help.
Keep your eyes peeled – next week we will be releasing a full interview with this year’s winners. If you would like to get involved with the Digital Disruptors programme, please visit our website tofind out more.
