Music was always a part of my life growing up in Liverpool. But during one of the most difficult periods of my life, it became much more than a hobby.

After sixth form, I struggled to find a path that felt right for me. When Covid hit, I became increasingly isolated. My mental health got worse, my eating disorder became more severe, and I started self-harming.

Everything changed when my mum encouraged me to join The Noise Project, a Youth Music-funded programme run by Merseyside Youth Association. For the first time in a long time, I found a supportive community of youth workers, counsellors and musicians who helped me rebuild my confidence and find a sense of purpose.

Through music, I discovered a new way to express myself and started exploring opportunities in the music industry. I joined the Next Gen: Music Boss programme, worked on campaigns for emerging artists, and secured an internship at Ditto Music, which later turned into a full-time role.

Now, at 24, I work in the music industry. I've spoken in Parliament, managed a stage at The O2, and run charity gigs for emerging artists in Liverpool. I'm also helping create opportunities for other young people, inspired by the support I once received myself.

Looking back, one of the biggest things The Noise Project gave me was a window into possibilities I didn't even know existed. As I often say:

Today, I still return to the project that helped change my life. But with the programme now cut, I worry about the young people who may no longer have access to the same support that gave me hope, opportunities and a future.