Blackhorse Responders is an award-winning creative activism programme for 16-25 year old makers. Created to explore the use of design to transform attitude, it empowers young people to speak out and creatively engage others in the issues they care about.
WHEN?
The 2026 season of Blackhorse Responders will start recruiting in April, with sessions beginning in May.
WHAT?
It is a five month programme of free weekly workshops, where Responders gain access to some of the most exciting brains in London and projects worldwide, supporting them to create ideas for their own social movement. Responders learn essential skills in design, making and activism to apply them in their community, and receive a small stipend to support transport costs.
WHY?
London’s citizens are facing mounting pressures from crime, discrimination, environmental crises and debt. How can our frustration inspire creative activism – what form should this take, and where should these responses be heard? How can young people respond to their surroundings in innovative, thoughtful, and creative ways?
WHO?
Blackhorse Responders is a blend of learning practical skills, building community, and getting connected to the incredible creative energy our city has to offer.
The 2025 programme featured expert speakers:
- Olivia Twist
- Rabbits Road Press
- Are You Mad?
- Rowan Kiffin-Murray (Responders alumnus)
- Nate Agbetu
Previous supporters include:
- Olivia Twist, Illustrator
- Kay Rufai, founder of SMILE(ing) Boys Project
- PenTing Poetry (Spoken word and performance workshop)
- Eliza Hatch (Portrait Photography Workshop)
- Rabbits Road Press (Trip to printing press, introduction to Risograph printing)
- Hannah Davey, Arts Co-ordinator Greenpeace (Presentation and Q&A)
- Bold Tendencies
LAST YEAR
2025 saw our 4th cohort of Blackhorse Responders, 15 young people who live, work or study in London Borough of Waltham Forest. Over 4 years 61 young people have taken part in Blackhorse Responders. Activators, our alumni programme to Responders has benefited 40 young people this year who have attended workshops, facilitating workshops within our programmes and community events, and progressed to paid work experience opportunities within Blackhorse Workshop.
SIGN UP!
If you are interested in joining this year’s cohort get in touch:
WhatsApp Lucy on: 07523 735463 or email lucy@blackhorseworkshop.mom
FOLLOW US!
Instagram: @blackhorse.responders
