UK community engagement grants support youth, STEM programs

Published : 11-Jul-2022

Teenagers in need of support and children of all ages who are fascinated with science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) were beneficiaries of PPG's community engagement program in the United Kingdom (UK) over the past year.

Program funding enabled the Bradford Science Festival, coordinated by the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, UK, to expand its reach in 2021 and host nine days of interactive STEM activities across six venues. More than 25,000 people attended the festival in person and its website attracted an additional 125,300 visits. The event featured an array of digital resources, 500 PPG-branded learning packs and a local radio interview series with PPG STEM leaders that highlighted STEM careers. In addition, an eye-catching visual representation of seven PPG professionals working in STEM fields was displayed in the museum's foyer for several months to help promote STEM careers. Festival highlights can be viewed in videos here or below.

“PPG's ongoing partnership with the festival demonstrates our commitment to inspire children to consider a career in science, engineering and problem-solving," said Nina Skodova, communications leader, EMEA, West & Central. “We have a long track record of investing in STEM as part of our community engagement programs and we were honored to again serve as a major partner of the Bradford Science Festival."

PPG also continued to fund The Mix and its Together Project. The Mix is the leading support service for young people in the Suffolk area, offering guidance and other resources to young adults struggling with mental health concerns, job skills, relationship issues, addiction or other challenges.

“PPG is once again proud to partner with The Mix, given our shared vision, values and dedication to support young people," said Antonio Ragosta, raw material process specialist and community engagement lead at PPG's refinish facility in Stowmarket, UK. “We have invested in the Together Project for several years and have seen The Mix evolve and grow. The support and opportunities they give to young people are invaluable, and their many success stories are testament to their dedication and hard work. We are very proud to be part of their efforts."

With PPG's grant, the organization provided support to more than 120 youth, most between the ages of 16 and 18; offered 180 hours of workshops and group meetings; improved its recording and reporting systems; strengthened its partnerships with the business community; engaged with schools to support at-risk students; and invested in staff training and development.

Click here for more information on The Mix and here to learn more about the 2021 Bradford Science Festival. To learn more about how PPG invests in the next generation of STEM leaders, click here.​