Great Yarmouth charity DIAL, which has been supporting residents across the borough for over 40 years, has undergone a transformation thanks to a group of young people from diverse backgrounds across Norfolk. Ruben Cruz, CEO of social enterprise Reprezent Project, and Clare Dyble, the new CEO of the charity, explain more
Great Yarmouth charity DIAL has undergone a significant refresh, with improvement works taking place both inside and outside the building in King Street, thanks to seven young people aged 16 to 21 from diverse backgrounds across Norfolk. The project was delivered by social enterprise Reprezent Project in partnership with the REDI Team at Norfolk County Council as part of the Future Creatives programme, which aims to revitalise community spaces across Great Yarmouth and Norwich that are valued by local residents and in need of community investment.
The initiative has been designed to provide young people with diverse backgrounds living in Norfolk with opportunities to learn practical DIY, decorating and artistic skills while helping them feel connected to the communities in which they now live. By volunteering on projects that benefit local organisations, participants are also introduced to community services and encouraged to develop confidence, social connections and pathways into social entrepreneurship.
The timing of the project could not have been better. DIAL recently celebrated its 40th anniversary and has embarked on an exciting new chapter, unveiling a refreshed brand identity, a new logo and welcoming new Chief Executive Officer, Clare Dyble.
The project engaged seven young people aged 16 to 21 and over, who worked alongside the Reprezent Project team and artist Harry Newman. The renovation was supported by local contractor HL Home Repairs and Stowen Scaffolding, who assisted with essential repairs to the front façade of the building. The works addressed safety concerns while ensuring that improvements remained sympathetic to the character of the conservation area.
The transformation would not have been possible without the dedication and support of DIAL’s volunteers and staff. Thanks to everyone’s efforts, the building and charity shop have now reopened to the public, with the organisation’s new signage and branding proudly displayed on the front of the building.
Ruben Cruz, Co-Founder and CEO of Reprezent Project, said: “I am incredibly proud and excited about this project. Coming from a diverse background and moving to the UK in 2012, volunteering and delivering community projects helped me feel that this town and country had become home. Being able to provide opportunities for others from similar backgrounds to gain new skills, explore social entrepreneurship and feel valued is something I am deeply passionate about. I have always had enormous respect for DIAL and the fantastic work the team does for Great Yarmouth. Supporting them by helping to refresh and uplift their space has been a genuine privilege.”
Clare Dyble, CEO of DIAL, said: “What Reprezent Project and the Futures Creatives programme have delivered here is truly remarkable. Our building has been transformed, and it feels like the perfect backdrop for this exciting new chapter in DIAL’s story. Having recently joined as CEO, I am thrilled to be leading an organisation with such a talented and dedicated team, and such a clear commitment to the communities we serve. I am more determined than ever to forge strong partnerships with organisations who share our values — and I am enormously grateful to everyone who gave their time and skills to make this happen, from our wonderful staff and volunteers to the incredible young people at the heart of this project.”
Ellie-May Keywood, Norfolk County Council REDI Team, said: “It was a pleasure to be involved with the Future Creatives project at Dial in Great Yarmouth and to support the Global Majority young people who took part. The project created such a positive and inclusive environment, and it was inspiring to see participants developing new creative skills, building their confidence, and developing connections with others.
“What stood out most for me was the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the young people, not only in their own learning but also in how they gave back to the local community through their work. Opportunities like this are so important in helping young people feel empowered, valued, and able to express themselves.
“We are really excited about the future of this project and can’t wait to see what comes next. We would love to see even more young people getting involved and benefiting from everything it has to offer.”
Future Creatives is supported and funded by Norfolk Community Foundation. Reprezent Project plans to continue delivering similar improvements to community spaces in Great Yarmouth and Norwich between July and October. Upcoming projects are already confirmed at Great Yarmouth Fire Station and The Park Surgery. These volunteering opportunities are specifically aimed at young people from diverse backgrounds who are seeking opportunities to integrate, gain practical experience and contribute positively to their communities. Anyone interested in getting involved is encouraged to contact Reprezent Project at info.reprezent@gmail.com.
Featured image of Ruben Cruz, CEO of social enterprise Reprezent Project, and Clare Dyble, CEO of DIAL – supplied
Leave a Reply