A delegation of young people from Sandwell (from the Youth Cabinet, Voice 21 magazine and Sandwell Twinning Association) are to take part in an international youth exchange called ‘Village of the World’ to be held in Blanc Mesnil, France.

This is the first village of the world to be hosted by Blanc Mesnil as part of their twinning with various other countries including Peterhof in Russia, Debre Berhan in Ethiopia, Beni Douala in Algeria and of course Sandwell. The village will provide an opportunity for exchanges on various levels between young people from Sandwell and elsewhere.

The week will be marked by discussions and debates on local issues, national and international concerns of the young people. Moments of leisure, cultural and sporting activity will enable the young people to get to know each other better. The village will culminate in the production of a website to leave a lasting legacy and provide a portal for continued dialogue between the participants when they return home.

During their stay the young people will transcend into Blanc Mesnil armed with cameras, camcorders and computers, and will Interview locals on issues of discrimination, health, culture, identity, integration and peace amongst others to report on the website. The young people from Sandwell are preparing a presentation on life in the UK and Sandwell to share with their counterparts at the village and are extremely excited at this opportunity of a life time!

To keep friends, family and others informed about the exchange they will be running a blog on www.justyouth.org. So, if you want to keep an eye on their antics get registered and follow the blog from 9th – 14th July.

For further information on the exchange please contact Tariq Karim on 0845 352 7541 or e-mail tariq_karim@sandwell.gov.uk

Representing Sandwell

Ben Hancox (Top left): “I am really interested in representing Sandwell by inputting and listening to the meetings in France. Cor wait!”

Vijay Masaun (Top middle): “Bonjour! Can’t wait to go on this trip and meet new people. Should be awesome, espically experiencing different cultures. Au revoir.”


Kuljit Sahota (Top right): “I can’t wait. It’s a brilliant opportunity and I hope to make the most of it.”

Grace Vanstone-Hallam (Bottom left): “I’m looking forward to the trip, especially meeting new people and experiencing new cultures.”

Jessica Masaun (Bottom middle): “It’s going to be a great experience to meet so many young people.”

Faith Whitehouse (Bottom right): “I can’t wait to meet new people and camping. It’s going to be awesome!”