Youngstarz
Empowering the next generation through culture, creativity, and community.
At Youngstarz, we believe every child holds the power to shine. Our programmes nurture confidence, creativity, and curiosity through engaging workshops, cultural exploration, and hands-on learning experiences. Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu - “I am because we are” - Youngstarz inspires children to celebrate their heritage, embrace their individuality, and recognise their place within a global community.
About Youngstarz
Nurturing confidence, creativity, and community.
Youngstarz was founded in 2006 by Tania Degale (BA Hons, PGCE), beginning as an after-school singing group at a local primary school. From the start, Tania’s open, welcoming, and encouraging approach inspired both pupils and parents, and the group quickly grew in popularity and reputation.
Today, Youngstarz has joined forces with Break-Thru Productions to take the programme to the next level - offering children a unique playscheme that encourages growth in mind, body, and spirit.
The heart of Youngstarz is guided by the humanist African philosophy of Ubuntu, derived from the Zulu phrase “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu,” which translates as “A person is a person through other people.”
Throughout their time at Youngstarz, children learn how deeply they are connected to family, friends, community, and the wider world - growing in self-belief and compassion through shared learning, teamwork, and creativity.
Child Protection and Equal Opportunities Policies, Public Liability insurance, Risk-assessed activities, and Food & Hygiene certification.
All of our staff have been DBS checked
Mission Statement
Celebrating heritage. Expanding horizons. Inspiring the future.
Youngstarz was created to provide children from African and Caribbean families with opportunities to engage in enriching activities that enhance their education and ignite their curiosity across a wide range of subjects. We deliver high-quality workshops and excursions that help young people nurture their talents, build confidence, and broaden their horizons.
At the heart of every programme is a commitment to educating our students in African and Caribbean history and culture -placing their heritage and the contributions of Black people in global context, and empowering them to take pride in who they are and what they can achieve.
EIGHT EXTRAORDINARY CHILDREN FROM VARIED BACKGROUNDS EMBARK ON AN EPIC SUMMER ADVENTURE AT YOUNGSTARZ! A TRULY AMAZING AND UNIQUE TWO WEEK PROJECT!
History & Cookery
Discovering legacy through taste and tradition.
The Youngstarz explored the powerful legacies of Mansa Musa I, ruler of the Empire of Mali, and Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba.
To deepen their understanding, the children embarked on a research trip to the British Museum, where they studied artefacts and stories from African history.
Their journey continued at Kata Kata Arts Café in Brixton, where they joined entrepreneur, chef, and health guru Evagle Francklin for a hands-on cooking workshop. The children learned to make delicious, healthy vegan crêpes, discovering the joy of creativity in the kitchen.
Science & Excursions
Exploring innovation, imagination, and African excellence.
In this module, the Youngstarz celebrated the groundbreaking achievements of Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African-American astronaut.
They visited iFLY Indoor Skydiving Centre in Basingstoke to experience the sensation of zero gravity — bringing science and imagination to life.
The group also explored the inventive genius of engineer Lonnie Johnson, creator of the iconic Super Soaker water gun — a lesson that ended with laughter and a joyful super soaker battle!
To round off their scientific adventures, the children visited The Centre of the Cell, where they met trainee medical students and gained first-hand insight into the world of biomedical science.
Drama & Film
Becoming the heroes of their own stories.
Throughout the playscheme, the Youngstarz were filmed and interviewed as they shared their discoveries and reflections.
They also took part in a magical dream sequence, transforming into the superheroes they created - inspired by the strength and power of African gods and goddesses.
The film premiered on Saturday 19th August, followed by an awards ceremony celebrating the children’s creativity, curiosity, and hard work.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
RICHARD ATKINS SCHOOL: Nadia McIntosh and Dean Gregory
KINGSTON UNIVERSITY: Nelson Douglas
CONSCIOUS RADIO FM: Judith Jacob
Will and Zensi Benskin (parent helpers)
Oshun Atkins-Taipow (Y10 work experience student)
