PERFORMANCES, exhibitions, and activities highlighting the talent and creativity of Rotherham’s young people have all kicked off today – as the Children's Capital of Culture Rotherham Reimagined two-day conference begins.

Following last week's birthday party finale event, Rotherham's young people, members of the Youth Programming Panel and organisations including Grimm and Co, Rotherham Council, FLUX Rotherham, Rotherham Music, schools, community, arts, digital media, theatre and sport projects will be showcasing the borough's growing cultural and creative scene.

The conference will feature panel discussions, Q&As, storytelling sessions, hands-on creative workshops, performances, exhibitions, presentations and visits to cultural hotspots and locations.

Venues involved in hosting the conference sessions include Rotherham Town Hall, Rotherham Civic Theatre, and AESSEAL RUFC New York Stadium.

Mayor of Rotherham Rukhsana Ismail (centre) with CCoC Youth Panel Members (L-R) Sujani Sivasuthan, Lily Frances Smith, Hollie Douglas and Zainab Jalloh.

placeholder image — Mayor of Rotherham Rukhsana Ismail (centre) with CCoC Youth Panel Members (L-R) Sujani Sivasuthan, Lily Frances Smith, Hollie Douglas and Zainab Jalloh.

There will also be legacy announcements outlining the next chapter for the Children’s Capital of Culture programme.

A CCoC spokesperson said: “In 2025, Rotherham became the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture – a big title for a borough with a big dream.

“This two-day creative conference will reflect on what happens when a community embraces the ideas of its children and young people, empowers them to lead, and supports them to co-create the future they imagine.

“Rotherham’s young people have been at the heart of co-producing this event, and will be speaking, presenting, and sharing their experiences of Children’s Capital of Culture at the conference.

“Join us to explore the learning, partnerships, and creativity that have shaped this pioneering initiative – and discover how these approaches can inspire change in your own work.”

The event will take place on Thursday March 26 and Friday 27.

The conference is free / Pay-What-You-Can and donations are welcomed.

View the full schedule https://www.childrenscapitalofculture.co.uk/whats/childrens-capital-culture-conference-schedule.