YOUNG people will be empowered to become role models for their communities at an event next month.

The Catalyst Young Leaders programme invites those aged 16-26 to play a part in their community and offers participants access to trainers and inspirational speakers as well as the opportunity to build their confidence and improve their communication and leadership skills.

A spokeswoman for the programme said: “The aim is to empower young people to act as positive role models in their neighbourhoods and communities.

"Catalyst emphasises the importance of religious and ethnic diversity in our country and encourages its students to be understanding and supportive to people of all backgrounds.”

The programme will run at the Trinity Centre in North Ormesby on Saturday, March 3 and Sunday, March 4 and at Teesside University on Saturday, March 24 and Sunday, March 25.

For more information contact Heather Black at heather.black@togethermc.org or 07446 908451 or Shahda Khan at shahda_khan@middlesbrough.gov.uk or 01642 729219.

Applications should be received by Thursday, February 22.