Bradford, one of the UK’s youngest and most vibrant cities, is preparing to shine during its year as City of Culture, with a particular focus on its youth. With under-25s making up 34% of its population, the city’s youthful energy is central to the vision of Bradford 2025 organizers.
“Youthful demography” is not just a statistic for Bradford—it’s a driving force. Organizers aim to harness the talents of young people to create opportunities that were once out of reach. Noor Jahangir, a 19-year-old open mic poet and former member of the Bradford 2025 youth panel, exemplifies this ambition. Now working full-time with the City of Culture delivery team, Jahangir sees this as a transformative moment for her hometown.
“When I was younger, Bradford had a lot of negative stereotypes,” Jahangir shared. “It felt like creative opportunities weren’t available here, and those who pursued them often left and didn’t come back.” Today, she’s working to change that narrative. “Some people think opportunities here are just given to the disadvantaged, but that’s not true. This is about empowering talent and breaking barriers in the creative sector, which often feels dominated by middle-class, white voices.”
John McMahon, head of engagement, skills, and volunteering at Bradford 2025, believes the city’s youth bring a unique vibrancy and energy that can make the cultural events truly special. “This youthful drive positions Bradford perfectly to seize the moment that 2025 offers,” McMahon explained. He noted, however, that challenges like youth unemployment and barriers to opportunity are real concerns, particularly in northern cities that have seen traditional industries fade.
Despite these hurdles, McMahon sees immense potential. “Bradford’s young people have a passion for their city and a hunger for opportunities. For many, it’s about creating a future that allows them to thrive here rather than feeling pressured to move away.”
Bradford College’s vice principal, Alina Khan, is intimately familiar with the city’s challenges and strengths. With a student body of around 12,000, mostly from within a 3-4km radius of the central campus, the college reflects the community’s vibrancy and diversity.
“Bradford is incredibly diverse, and being surrounded by different cultures and socio-economic backgrounds is just normal for young people here,” Khan said. “That’s what makes Bradford so special.”
However, she acknowledged the struggles many students face, from high levels of deprivation to limited health outcomes in certain areas. Yet, despite these challenges, a strong sense of pride and responsibility defines Bradford’s youth.
“There’s something magnetic about Bradford that keeps people here,” Khan observed. “There’s a collective sense of duty to make this city the best it can be.”
As Bradford gears up for its City of Culture year, the hope is that this celebration will not only highlight the city’s artistic and cultural talents but also attract long-term investment. From fostering pride among residents to breaking down stereotypes and creating opportunities, Bradford 2025 is set to be a turning point for this dynamic city.
For a full list of events, visit the Bradford City of Culture website and discover how Bradford’s youthful energy is shaping its future.
