Spotify and Mentivity Celebrate Youth Spaces in New Film, The Centre

In a poignant celebration of youth culture and community resilience, Spotify and Mentivity have released The Centre, a short film directed by Adeyemi Michael that explores the critical role of youth spaces in nurturing creativity and shaping UK culture.

The Centre takes viewers on a reflective journey through the transformative power of youth clubs, showcasing their pivotal role in the lives of today’s leading UK artists. Featuring intimate contributions from Femi Koleoso of Ezra Collective, Ms Banks, Novelist, and Young T & Bugsey, the film highlights their personal stories of how these safe havens shaped their careers and sense of self.

Mentivity House, the focal point of this initiative, opened its doors this month. Located on Peckham’s Aylesbury Estate — once one of Europe’s largest estates — Mentivity House stands as a beacon of hope and creativity. “Mentivity House is an example of how we reclaim our block,” says Sayce Holmes-Lewis, founder of Mentivity. “Over a decade in the making, this is a full-circle moment for me.”

The film, directed by Michael — whose previous work includes BBC Panorama and Netflix’s Champion — is a testament to the enduring legacy of youth spaces. Michael, who first connected with Sayce as a youth worker, emphasises, “I hope when others see the film they’re as moved as I am by Mentivity’s invaluable contribution to society both locally and globally.”

A recent survey by Censuswide underscores the significance of such spaces, revealing that 70% of young people feel youth clubs nurture creative talent and 89% believe they are crucial for their development. The Centre is a stirring reminder of how vital these spaces are in cultivating a sense of belonging and shaping future generations.

As Spotify continues its commitment to supporting youth well-being through this collaboration, The Centre promises to be a powerful visual narrative of hope, creativity, and community.