Empowering Teen Voices: Introducing TMN - A Revolutionary Network for Young Creators

TMN ignites the motivations of a group of enthusiastic teens, driven by the desire to create a platform that facilitates conversations on topics that are often challenging to broach.

Last week, our organization, Colectivo Piloto, had a remarkable opportunity to unveil the Teens media Network (TMN) educational initiative at the YouthMADE Festival, meticulously organized By Digital Promise. This milestone marked the culmination of an initial development phase, transforming a once-distant dream into a tangible reality. As an educator working with youth, the introduction of TMN to the wider public represented a pivotal leap forward.

This endeavor to create a youth network traces its roots back nearly two decades when the City of Barcelona entrusted me with the task of presenting an idea that could effectively engage young individuals in media projects. In response, I passionately crafted a comprehensive 20-page document, which I eagerly submitted to the Department of Youth Affairs. Whiting its pages, I outlined an innovative concept: the establishment of a youth media network curated by and for teenagers themself. 

Although the initial response from the City was positive, a cloud of skepticism inevitably loomed overhead. As expected, doubts emerged regarding the expectations adults often hold when it comes to teenagers: the pervasive notion that they would be unable to accomplish such a feat. 

Regrettably, the City respectfully declined the proposition and instead suggested pursuing a “smaller” and more financially feasible project that aligned with the commitments and expectations of teenagers. Undeterred, I spent the following weeks crafting a new proposal. Although I fell short of fully aligning my own and the teens’ expectations, I managed to create a draft that showcased enough potential to demonstrate the capabilities of youth. With unwavering commitment, I set a goal to execute this project within a year’s time. You may be wondering what the revised idea entailed. Well, instead of creating a network, I proposed the concept of developing a TV show. The project’s success stemmed from its ability to ignite the motivations of a group of enthusiastic teens, driven by the desire to create a platform that facilitates conversations on topics that are often challenging to broach.

The experience served as the driving inspiration behind the creation of TMN. The launch of the Teens Network at the YouthMADE Festival surpassed all expectations, and the motivation exhibited by the teens who have already joined serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of establishing secure digital spaces. These spaces allow teenagers to engage in global conversations on sensitive topics that may be challenging to discuss within the confines of traditional education environments. TMN aims to provide a platform where such discussions can flourish, fostering a sense of safety, empowerment, and openness among young individuals. 

I’m delighted to share a video below that captures the most remarkable moments of the conversation at the YouthMADE Festival. You’ll witness the inspiring voices of the teens as they passionately express their motivations for creating the network. This marks only the initial stages of our journey, and we couldn't be more thrilled to dive headfirst into this exciting teen adventure. The excitement is palpable as we embark on this adventurous endeavor, ready to embrace the challenges and failures, celebrate the triumphs, and shape a future filled with endless possibilities. Join us as we set sail into this exciting teenage adventure!