Community

Teesside Park Hosts Bright Lights Celebration Event

Teesside Park proudly hosted its Bright Lights Celebration Event on Thursday 12^th February, marking the finale of this year’s inspiring six-week programme.

Bright Lights is British Land’s annual employability programme for young people aged 18–24 from across Teesside, delivered by Teesside Park in partnership with the Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation. The programme provides meaningful training, mentoring and work placements, and equips young people with the employability skills they need to enter the world of work, particularly in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

Participants, mentors, placement hosts and community partners came together for an afternoon of celebration and reflection. The event was attended by a guest of honour, the Worshipful the Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees, Councillor Stephen Richardson. He met graduates, presented certificates and congratulated them on their achievements and progress towards future careers.

After an opening message from the MFCF team, speakers reflected on the cohort’s journey and thanked the brands and mentors who provided such valuable placements. A standout moment came when participants took the spotlight with heartfelt speeches showcasing their confidence, growth, and new skills.

Nicola Hopkins, Retail Manager at Teesside Park, said:
“The Bright Lights programme is something I look forward to every single year. Supporting young people as they take their first steps into retail, hospitality and leisure is one of the most rewarding parts of my role. This year’s cohort impressed me with their maturity, commitment and enthusiasm from day one.”

Sarah Stones, Employability Officer at MFCF, added:
“Over the past six weeks, the young people we’ve worked with have shown incredible determination, overcoming real personal challenges while taking part in workshops, hearing from guest speakers, as well as completing work placements and mock interviews.

“Watching their confidence grow has been an absolute delight, and playing even a small part in their journey has truly been an honour.”

Now in its 13th year, the programme continues to make a meaningful impact across Teesside. Last year Bright Lights was recognised nationally at the Sceptre Awards, receiving the Community Initiative of the Year (North) award for the success of its 2024 programme which saw 22 young people secure employment.

Teesside Park looks forward to welcoming the next Bright Lights cohort later this year and continuing to invest in the potential of young people across the local community.

Last updated Monday 15 June, 2026