Fir Vale's got talent

Story: Kalsoom Ilyas, Quotes: Raquia Begum. Photos: Ersalan Hussain & Sherin T Rajan, Fir Vale School photography club

On 18th October Fir Vale School hosted the Fir Vale Festival, which brought the whole community together. It drew out all the different talents we have in Fir Vale. It was organised by Green City Action and Fir Vale’s School Council members: Kalsoom Ilyas, Kalim Ayub, Raveena Hussain, Sanna Ali, Tahleel Khan, Abid Hussain, Shahzadgai Khan and Michael Hall.

The whole idea of this event was to get young people involved. A chance for them to see what happens behind the scenes. The team were excited to share their ideas to make this event successful. The response we got back from the community was huge –more than 300 people attended!

The festival included a competition called “Fir Vale’s got Talent” where 12 contestants were chosen after having two sessions of auditions, competing for the grand prize of £100. The atmosphere was phenomenal, it was exciting and emotions were running high.

“I feel so excited, yet I’m so nervous.” Kiran (performer)

“That was great, I felt so pressured at first, but then I heard the audience’s response; it made me less nervous.” Sammy (performer)

It brought the community together, where young people played a big role. The huge amount of support we received on the day was great. The event was absolutely ecstatic, it was booming with all the music. We had many acts, from Bollywood dancing to break dancing. We also had singers and dancers, we had a circus act and some Slovakian music.

“The day was great, I had a lot of fun, the performances were brilliant, especially the bollywood dancing.” (Student at Fir Vale School)

“Today was so much fun, I was nervous at first, but later when I got on stage, I was relaxed and having fun.” Sophia (performer)

Everyone had so much fun, the best part was announcing the winners.

• 1st position: Asad Ali – £100

• 2nd position: Sameera Khalid – £50

• 3rd position: Dina Khalid – £25

However, all the contestants received a prize. The event was supported by Burngreave Community Action Forum Guests: Dare devil – circus act, MC Nige and acapella group from Africa, Umdumo Wesizwe. We hope we can get this festival running again with the support of the community next year and we will try to make it bigger and better.

Thanks to the judges: Elaine Virgo, Jenny Tibbles, Leroy Betts, Steve Gayle, Tahleel Khan, Shahzadgai Khan.

More photos: Fir Vale's Got talent photo gallery

And: Fir Vale Festival entertainment