Youth Engagement Lab: Digital storytelling for arts charities
Meta, London, NW1 3FG
Tuesday 7 July 2026 09:30 - 16:30
Want to better engage Gen-Z audiences online?
If your arts charity is trying to reach younger audiences on social media but isn’t sure what content actually connects, this free one-day workshop is for you.
This practical in-person training day will help you create more authentic, youth-focused digital content and break down barriers to participation online.
Building on Media Trust’s experience supporting charities with digital communications, you’ll gain insights, practical tools, creative frameworks and hands-on video skills to help your organisation grow its confidence, reach and engagement with young audiences.
Why apply?
- Turn insight into action: Explore the latest research and trends around young audiences and learn how to translate them into practical digital strategies for your organisation.
- Learn from industry experts: Hear directly from Meta and Vidsy on what makes short-form video content work, with practical tips on creating content for the platforms young people actually use.
- Build your skills and confidence: From shaping your story and briefing creators to using AI tools to support content ideas and editing, you’ll leave with practical techniques, creative confidence and a framework you can continue using long after the workshop.
Each successful application includes two places, so you can attend with a colleague and learn, plan and create together.
Apply hereWhy video content matters
Video brings your charity’s story to life in a way few other formats can. It captures attention, builds trust, and helps audiences connect with the arts on a human level. Video consistently outperforms other content online, reaching more people and leaving a lasting impression.
What you’ll walk away with
- An understanding of youth engagement that moves beyond stereotypes and bridges the gap between data and real-world trends.
- A creative framework that saves time and boosts your content planning.
- Hands-on video skills from Vidsy’s content creator experts.
- Peer support and inspiration from other arts charities as you learn to translate traditional arts marketing into short-form, creator-led formats together.
Full-day agenda
09:30 – 10:00 - Check-in
Arrivals, check-in and refreshments
10:00 – 10:15 - Welcome and introductions
Hear from Media Trust and Meta, and get an overview of the day’s objectives.
10:15 – 11:15 - Session 1: Demystifying the youth audience
A panel discussion featuring experts:
- Ben Machon (Edelman’s Gen Z Lab)
- Marvyn Benoit, former Executive Director at The Tate
-
Izzy Mana, Fashion Film Director and Media Trust Youth Ambassador
-
Jade Staiano, Media Trust
They’ll be exploring youth audience insights, platforms, and motivations.
11:15 – 11:30 - Break
Break
11:30 – 12:30 - Session 2: Content formats that work for under-25s
A platform strategist from Meta will explore the evolving landscape of video, what stops the scroll, and how to create authentic, youth-friendly digital storytelling.
12:30 – 13:30 - Lunch
Lunch and networking
13:30 – 14:30 - Session 3: The Creator Clinic
We’ll break down a creative framework that works, covering the objective, hook, and trending audio. We’ll also demonstrate how to use Conversational AI (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude) to generate scripts and captions in seconds.
14:30 – 14:40 - Break
Break
14:40 – 15:40 - Practical session: The Content Lab
With hands-on guidance from Vidsy experts, you’ll learn to create content quickly and confidently using techniques that work for all experience levels.
15:40 – 16:30 - Showcase and wrap up
A chance to share your creations with on-the-spot feedback and a final reflection of the day.
Who should apply?
This programme is exclusively for arts charities based in Greater London with priority given to charities based in Southwark. We welcome staff working in marketing, comms and/or social media, with a particular interest in digital storytelling and supporter communications.
No previous video experience is needed! Just bring your curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to learn.
How to apply
To apply, please complete our online application form by Friday 5 June. We will notify all applicants by 12 June. Spaces are limited to ensure a highly collaborative and practical experience.
Any questions? Get in touch with Lara at larah@mediatrust.org.
We’re committed to making these sessions accessible to all participants. If you require additional support to attend, please let us know and we’d be happy to help.
Apply hereWith thanks to our partners
This programme is kindly funded by InTrust who meet young people where they are at, using the arts as a catalyst for academic success, mental health and wellbeing. With thanks to Meta, who will be our hosts for the day, at their fully accessible venue.