Liverpool poet Joseph Roberts has teamed up with The City of Liverpool College for a powerful new spoken-word film celebrating the ambition, resilience and identity of the city’s next generation.
The short film, I’m Here, features an original poem written and performed by the award-winning Liverpool poet, alongside footage of students and staff from across the College’s six campuses. Created following visits to the College and conversations with students and staff, the campaign reflects the diversity, creativity and determination that have long defined Liverpool.
The film centres on the experiences of young people finding their place in the city and looking towards the future.
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The campaign comes as one in three Liverpool 16 to 18-year-olds choose to study at The City of Liverpool College, making it one of the city’s largest educational institutions.
Elaine Bowker, Principal at The City of Liverpool College, said: “For generations, The City of Liverpool College has been part of the story of Liverpool. Today, one in three Liverpool 16 to 18-year-olds choose to study with us, and our former students can be found in workplaces, communities and industries across the city region.
“We wanted this campaign to feel unmistakably Liverpool. Not just to showcase the opportunities available at the College, but to celebrate the character, ambition and resilience that make this city special.
“Joseph was the perfect person to help tell that story. His work is authentic, creative and rooted in Liverpool. He has captured what it means to be here, to belong here and to be building your future here.”
Roberts said the poem was inspired by the people he met while developing the project.
“Liverpool has always had a strong sense of identity,” he said. “It’s a city full of pride, humour, creativity and determination, and I wanted the poem to reflect those qualities.
“Spending time at the College, meeting students and seeing the range of opportunities available was genuinely inspiring. What stood out was that everyone was on their own journey, but they all shared a sense of ambition and possibility. “The poem is about recognising where you are, being proud of where you come from and having the confidence to take the next step. That’s something that feels very Liverpool to me.”
The I’m Here campaign forms part of The City of Liverpool College’s ongoing work to support the next generation of talent by helping students develop the skills, confidence and opportunities needed to succeed in Liverpool and beyond.
