Birmingham 2022 has launched the "Bring the Power" youth programme ©Birmingham 2022

Birmingham 2022 has launched the "Bring the Power" youth programme which has the aim of reaching one million youngsters across the Commonwealth Games host city and the West Midlands.

The aim of the programme is to give young people a "voice" while helping them feel a part of this year's Games.

An event at the Lighthouse Youth Centre launched the initiative, and saw youngsters try out sports including 3x3 basketball and table tennis.

Birmingham is said to be Europe's youngest city, with more than 40 per cent of the population aged under 25 over the past two years.

Goals of Bring the Power include improving access to sport, art and culture while helping to boost confidence and resilience.

The programme will work closely with schools and provide resources on the Games, while interactive workshops will be held.

A number of youth organisations will also be involved, with four set to act as hubs to celebrate Birmingham 2022.

"Commonwealth Connections" will link West Midlands schools with schools from across the Commonwealth, while the Common Ground Grant Scheme aims to encourage cultural collaboration, facilitate conversation and promote student leadership.

Every secondary school in Birmingham can apply for a grant of £1,000 ($760/€915) to support their involvement in the scheme.

These projects are being run in association with the British Council and Birmingham City Council.

"Young people, in particular, have really suffered from the impact of COVID-19 over the past two years," said Alton Brown, the head of youth programmes and policy at Birmingham 2022. 

"Through our Bring the Power programme we are creating opportunities for them to connect with the Games and feel inspired and empowered by sport, art and culture.

"We are very proud to be working together with Birmingham City Council's Youth Service to engage young people, especially as they already hold incredible relationships with youth workers across the city. 

Youngsters tried out sports including 3x3 basketball as the scheme launched ©Birmingham 2022
Youngsters tried out sports including 3x3 basketball as the scheme launched ©Birmingham 2022

"It's been amazing to see so many children and young people engaged so far in Birmingham 2022. 

"We can't wait to celebrate the next generation of changemakers."

Nigel Huddleston, the Commonwealth Games Minister, added: "We want to make Birmingham 2022 the Games for everyone. 

"This fantastic youth programme shows the many exciting ways young people can be a part of this unforgettable event taking place on their own doorstep. 

"Bring the Power will help children across the region to discover new passions and connect with the Commonwealth."

Birmingham boxer Galal Yafai, the Olympic flyweight champion, is involved with Bring the Power.

"Boxing gave me independence, strength and determination at a young age," the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist said.

"Sport has the power to bring people together, break down barriers and connect with other people and it's brilliant to see Birmingham 2022 making this happen in my hometown."

Dominica's high jumper Brendan Williams, the Commonwealth Games Federation's Athlete Advisory Commission chairman, said: "The Commonwealth Games and our inspirational athletes have a unique ability to inspire young people to be positive agents of change. 

"The Bring the Power programme is a fantastic initiative to harness the impact of the Games to engage with and support young people. 

"It is fully aligned with the CGF vision and values and I have no doubt it will leave another lasting positive legacy for the young people of Birmingham and the West Midlands."