Apply now to be one of Islington’s Chief Discovery Officers this summer!

Children and young people with a taste for adventure are invited to apply to be among Islington’s first Chief Discovery Officers this summer – using their creativity and enthusiasm to highlight the best of the borough’s activities and opportunities on-camera for their peers. 

The Chief Discovery Officers, who will be picked by a panel of judges, will lead a fresh take on summer in Islington – presented by young people, for young people – and each winner will receive rewards including Arsenal merchandise and shopping vouchers up to £250.

The winners, aged 11-18, will gain hands-on digital and communications experience, capturing their real Islington through creative video content that celebrates the borough’s hidden gems, local hangouts, sports, music, fashion, tech, food, and much more. 

Supported and guided by communications professionals, they will tackle weekly creative challenges throughout August and gain real exposure, with their work featured on Islington Council’s social media and digital platforms. 

Cllr Michelline Safi-Ngongo, Islington’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: “We’re determined to ensure every young person in Islington has the opportunities to thrive and make the most of their potential. That’s why the summer holidays are so important. It’s not just time off school – it’s a chance for adventure and discovery, a feast of new opportunities for Islington’s young people. 

“There are literally hundreds of things to do and places to go – a genuine chance to discover new talents and indulge passions. From sport to singing, coding to craft, dance to digital skills, cycling to swimming and music-making to roller-skating, every young person will find something new and exciting this summer. Best of all, our Chief Discovery Officers will lead the way in opening up this world of opportunity to their peers. 

“It’s a first for us, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the brilliant young minds of Islington will show their peers what’s so great about the borough they live, work, or study in. This is a money-can’t-buy opportunity, so what are you waiting for – get out there and show us what makes Islington so great!” 

The competition opens today and closes on Friday, July 25. To enter, simply fill out an entry form and upload a 30-second video clip showing what you love about Islington and why you want to be a Chief Discovery Officer. All the details, tips and entry information are available at islington.gov.uk/DiscoverIslington.