Canon UK has delivered two powerful workshops in Ilford as part of its Canon Young People Programme (CYPP), enabling students to explore key global challenges through the creative lens of photography. Hosted in collaboration with the London Borough of Redbridge, the sessions took place at Caterham High School and The Forest Academy, inspiring over 50 young participants to tell visual stories around themes of equality and biodiversity.
At Caterham High School, Year 10 students and A-level mentors tackled the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 5 and 10—focused on gender equality and reducing inequalities. Under the guidance of Canon Ambassador Ian Hippolyte, a visual storyteller renowned for his portrait work, students created emotive imagery that championed inclusion and challenged social stereotypes.
“It was incredible to see how the students used their creativity to express powerful messages about equality,” said Hippolyte. “Photography is more than just capturing images – it’s about telling stories that matter. These young people showed how visual storytelling can be a force for change.”
Meanwhile, at The Forest Academy, wildlife photographer and Canon Ambassador Ellie Rothnie led a biodiversity-themed workshop tied to UNSDG 15: Life on Land. Students explored the natural environment around their school, capturing local flora and fauna with Canon’s mirrorless cameras to craft compelling photo narratives on the importance of nature and conservation.
“Helping these students capture biodiversity in their own surroundings and guiding them to tell stories through their images has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Rothnie. “Their passion and curiosity are truly inspiring.”
Both workshops offered students hands-on experience with Canon’s latest imaging technology, including EOS R6 and R8 mirrorless cameras paired with a range of macro, zoom and wide-angle lenses. Final images were printed on Canon’s PIXMA TS8750 and SELPHY CP1500 photo printers, giving each participant a lasting memento of their creative journey.
“These storytelling workshops are fantastic examples of how our CYPP brings together our imaging technology and social value strategy,” said Adam Pensotti, Head of the Canon Young People Programme. “By combining storytelling, photography, and themes like equality and biodiversity, we’re equipping young people with the tools and confidence to use their voices and create change.”
Kam Mann, Head of IT Support at the London Borough of Redbridge, echoed the impact of the initiative. “Canon’s delivery of both infrastructure and inspiration is exactly the kind of holistic partnership we value. These workshops gave our students unforgettable experiences, opening their eyes to the power of their own creative voices and the world around them.”
Canon’s Young People Programme continues to demonstrate how imaging and print technologies can serve a dual purpose—supporting both business needs and community empowerment. Globally, the CYPP has engaged over 7,750 young people across more than 30 countries, partnering with over 50 organisations to promote education and youth storytelling.
Specifications:
- Locations: Caterham High School and The Forest Academy, Ilford
- Themes: UNSDG 5 (Gender Equality), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), 15 (Life on Land)
- Equipment used: Canon EOS R6 and R8 cameras, Canon lenses (macro, zoom, wide-angle)
- Printing: Canon PIXMA TS8750 and SELPHY CP1500 printers
- Participants: Over 50 students including Year 10 and A-level mentors
- Canon Ambassadors: Ian Hippolyte and Ellie Rothnie
Price and Availability:
The Canon Young People Programme is an ongoing educational initiative. For more information on upcoming workshops and global outreach, visit the Canon UK website.
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