Steve from the National Leadership Network shares his reflections on delivering leadership sessions with our Inside Out group.

"A colleague and I were invited to HMPYOI Polmont as members of the National Leadership Network (NLN), by staff from Staf and CYCJ’s Youth Justice Voices Polmont-based steering group, Inside Out. Our mission was to deliver two interactive leadership sessions with a group of young men.

Both sessions were designed to explore the core elements of leadership - what it truly means to lead - and how leadership can empower individuals. We also discussed how leadership positions can be abused and how to hold those in power accountable. Additionally, we shared the work of the NLN, including the projects we've funded and the initiatives we've supported to date.

“Never let your schoolwork get in the way of your education.”

From an outsider’s perspective, it was clear that leadership was not absent among the young men at Polmont. What became even more evident, however, was that they didn’t recognize this leadership potential within themselves. Instead, they focused much more on their flaws, faults and mistakes, than on the leadership qualities they displayed and demonstrated throughout our time together.

While there is an undeniable sense of confidence among them, there is also an undercurrent of despair. I felt this during our discussions on the difficult topics they’ve personally faced. Yes, they are incarcerated for a reason - but no, we should not forget that they are human beings with complex needs. If we do, what can we realistically expect from them when they are released?

I found the experience fulfilling, knowing that we provided guidance and insight to these young men about the leadership qualities they possess. However, there is a larger deficit that must be addressed. If we, as a society, fail to help these young men recognize that they are leaders in their own right - and that they have the power to positively influence their own lives and the lives of others - we are all complicit in perpetuating the revolving door of institutions like Polmont."

"These young men are not just offenders; they are individuals with untapped potential."

Learn more about Inside Out.

Learn more about Youth Justice Voices.

         

Learn more about the NLN.