Abena Oppong-Asare, the Labour MP for Erith and Thamesmead, has marked the fifth successful edition of her Campaign Summer School — a three-day programme designed to equip young people with the skills and confidence to become the changemakers of tomorrow.
The latest summer school took place from 21 to 23 July at London South East Colleges’ Greenwich Campus in Plumstead, bringing together young participants for sessions on politics, campaigning skills and youth empowerment.
First launched in 2021, the programme was paused in 2024 amid the general election but has returned with its fifth edition, building on a growing network of alumni who stay connected through an expanding LinkedIn community.
Participants heard from expert speakers including Damien Arness-Dalton, Chisola Chitambala, Laura Coryton MBE, Rima Amin, Cllr Anthony Okereke, Martin Angus, Paul Richards, Aletha Adu, John Lehal and Bashir Ibrahim — covering everything from grassroots campaigning to parliamentary life and community leadership.
London South East Colleges hosted the programme, with Domino’s Thamesmead providing pizzas for participants throughout the three days.
Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:
“I am so proud to see our fifth Campaign Summer School come to life. Every year, I am inspired by the passion, curiosity and commitment of the young people who take part.
“Politics belongs to everyone, and programmes like this help ensure the next generation has the knowledge, confidence and networks they need to make a difference in their communities. I am grateful to London South East Colleges for hosting us and to all our brilliant speakers who gave their time to support these young changemakers.”
Dr Sam Parrett CBE, Chief Executive of London South East Colleges, said:
“We were delighted to welcome Abena Oppong-Asare’s Campaign Summer School back to our Greenwich Campus. Giving young people the opportunity to learn about politics and campaigning in a college setting is exactly the kind of enrichment that helps them develop as active citizens.
“Our students and local young people benefit enormously from engaging with real-world political experience, and we look forward to continuing this partnership.”
A spokesperson for the Domino’s Thamesmead franchise said:
“We were pleased to support Abena’s Campaign Summer School by providing pizzas for participants. It is important to us to give back to the local community, and we hope everyone enjoyed the programme.”
Ms Oppong-Asare said she intends to continue expanding the summer school’s alumni network, helping past participants stay connected and supporting them as they pursue careers in public life, community organising and campaigning.
