On Wednesday 6 November St Albans Cathedral was abuzz with the voices of over 400 sixth form students from across the diocese and beyond. These students had gathered to participate in the annual "Speak Your Mind" debate, an event that encourages young minds to engage with pressing social and political issues.

The debate was chaired by Quintin McKellar, Vice Chancellor of the University of Hertfordshire, and featured a distinguished panel of experts. Among them were Hezron Brown, a Pride of Britain and Prince’s Trust Award Winner and Managing Director of More Talk More Action; Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Hertfordshire’s Police Commissioner; Giles Fry, Liberal Democrat Councillor for St Albans; and the Bishop of Hertford, Jane Mainwaring.

The discussions covered a wide array of topics, with students eagerly contributing questions on issues like the implications of the recent U.S. election results and the state of criminal justice, in connection with the "Catching the Chain" exhibition at St Albans Museum + Gallery. The panellists shared their insights, sparking lively discussions that captivated the audience.

Hezron Brown, who was particularly impressed by the depth of student engagement, remarked, “It was a great day with some amazing questions.” Brown, who has dedicated his life to helping young people through his foundation, More Talk More Action, encouraged students to continue using their voices to create positive change.

The event also provided a platform for two local students, Molly and Harry from Sandringham School, to shine. They delivered powerful speeches on the topic: “Was enough consideration given to the victims of crime when the Government sanctioned the early release of prisoners last month?” Their well-articulated arguments impressed both the audience and the panel, after which they joined the panel discussion on this crucial subject.

The event concluded with positive feedback from both participants and organisers. Plans are already underway for next year’s debate, set to take place again in November, promising another round of thoughtful discussions and inspiring voices

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For more information about Hezron Brown's work, visit More Talk More Action.