Discussions throughout the day were shaped by those in the room from across the arts, heritage and health care sector. Questions were raised about climate change, health inequalities and how to bring lasting change in big institutions. A very thought provoking day!

Thank you Susan, for everything you've done. Your vision has helped young and old, partners, artists and participants to flourish!

Thank you to all the brilliant participants, artists & partners who made this possible—and to InCommon for recognising the power of intergenerational storytelling.
More on the project here: buff.ly/L7TQO8w

Together, they explored the stories and legacies of inspirational women, co-creating a moving short film led by filmmaker Chuck Blue Lowry & poet Laila Sumpton.
The result? A joyful celebration of creativity, connection & women's voices across generations.

This is an informal, welcoming space to learn, share, and refine your intergenerational practice.

If you work in arts, culture, or wellbeing and want to explore new ways to connect generations, join us!

🔗 Sign up here: buff.ly/KpsB074

In this session, we’ll discuss:

✨ How intergenerational projects create mutual exchanges inside the room
✨ The barriers to building equal collaboration outside the room
✨ Learnings from Magic Me’s 30+ years of intergenerational work in Tower Hamlets

Led by Magic Me’s Project Managers, Audrey Aidoo-Davies & Priyanka Chauhan, we’ll explore how creative projects bring older and younger people together, fostering connection, understanding, and joy.

Visit our website to watch the full story unfold. Let’s keep sharing and celebrating women’s voices. buff.ly/j4QILEU #IWD2025 #HerStoryOurInspiration

“You are more than enough. You are powerful. And you are helping the generation to come.”

Through art and storytelling, students and older women reflected on the women who shaped their lives - activists, writers, mothers, and mentors. Their conversations remind us of the power of intergenerational connection.

Are you passionate about the future of ageing? Drop a comment - what inspires you about age-friendly communities, and what role can creativity play?

We’re inspired to think bigger at Magic Me - how can we continue to foster connections and support age-friendly spaces? Let’s keep the conversation going!

Ageism remains endemic. Tackling it requires structural change and government policy. Social mixing projects like Magic Me’s can help bridge generational gaps and build trust, but systemic shifts are crucial for lasting change.

Data-driven prevention could help future-proof the NHS. Despite rising chronic illnesses, our health system spends just 1/3 per capita compared to Germany. Using AI & data to focus on prevention could improve long-term outcomes for everyone.

The UK workforce faces a digital skills gap. An estimated 52% of people lack the digital skills required for today’s job market. By 2030, we could have a 2.4M-person work skills gap. Addressing digital inclusion is essential for economic stability.

Inequality remains a driver for many issues - from health outcomes to work opportunities. The conference highlighted the importance of addressing structural inequalities and improving financial inclusion to manage vulnerability across long lives.

Mental health is a growing focus. 1 in 5 people took time off work for mental health in 2024, and rising rates of mental health issues among children are linked to technology. Norway’s school phone ban reduced mental health issues by 60%. Prevention & education are vital.

Housing quality must support ageing communities. A 51% increase in people over 55 requesting homelessness assistance since the pandemic highlights the need for age-inclusive, dementia-friendly housing and policies like rent control and anti-displacement.