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Young Bristol becomes Balloon Fiesta’s charity partner
A new partnership between the Bristol Balloon Fiesta and Young Bristol will run from 2026 to 2028, a year which will see both the Fiesta’s 50th birthday and Young Bristol’s 100th anniversary.
To mark Young Bristol becoming the new charity partner of the Fiesta, a hot air balloon was due to visit Young Bristol’s BS14 Youth Club in Stockwood on Thursday evening with young people invited to help tether the balloon, pack it away, and speak to pilots and crew.
Fiesta executive director, Ben Hardy, said “what makes this partnership with Young Bristol so powerful is that they create that same sense of belonging and opportunity at a community level, supporting young people through safe spaces, activities and youth-led programmes across the city”.
Hardy said: “Together, we’re committed to creating opportunities that inspire aspiration, improve access and strengthen community connection, values that sit at the very heart of both the Fiesta and Young Bristol.”
Young Bristol chief executive, Lee Williams, added: “Young Bristol is dedicated to enabling young people to build brighter futures and is rooted in some of Bristol’s most deprived communities.
“The partnership will allow us to open doors for young people to discover new career opportunities, grow their confidence and develop essential life skills through structured visits in our community venues and on-site engagement at the Fiesta.
“We’re excited to see what’s to come across the three‑year partnership, and look forward to broadening horizons, raising aspirations and creating a lasting impact during Bristol’s famous heritage event.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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