Written by Ben Miller (ICM's Service Development Consultant)
An Emulate session at The Smokehouse
Our most important invention?
What do you think? How about cars, plumbing, the internet, antibiotics, or universal rights?
But try to imagine our modern lives without beginning with the influence of the somewhat
forgotten campfire. It was more than a source of warmth and safety; it revolutionised our
diet, scared off predators allowing us to sleep soundly on the ground, and this led to the
development of our capable brains. Beyond its practical benefits, the campfire was a social
hub, a symbol, ritual and place where music, dance, celebrations, and stories thrived,
igniting the beginnings of today’s rich cultural tapestry.
The Emulate Project
In March we launched an exciting new ICM project for young men in Ipswich with a passion
for music, media and creativity more generally. Over three transformative months, we
engaged a diverse and enthusiastic group of six 16-21 year olds in weekly sessions at the
Smokehouse off Norwich Road.
Our dynamic programme covered themes like motivation, meaning, mental health, masculinity, mentorship, and mastery. Participants immersed themselves in challenges, enjoyed deep listening sessions, conducted interviews with inspiring guests, acquired new skills, explored local events, and held mind-opening campfire conversations on topics that truly matter to them.
Introducing Inqwire
We’re thrilled to work with Inqwire whose motto is ‘everyone deserves a world that makes
sense’. Like ICM, they’re a community spirited organisation who provide tools and training
that help people make sense of things individually and collectively. Their tool for groups is
called Inqwire Campfire which has been designed to bring people together to exchange
perspectives, reach insights and grow wisdom around universal topics of life.
Our Collaboration
The Emulate Project coming together with Inqwire Campfire was a perfect fit. Like so many
people today, young men are struggling to find their place in the world. Our culture and
technology is evolving rapidly yet our public services and economy is persistently stagnating.
It’s easy and understandable for young men to regularly fall into problems of disengagement, mental illness and isolation. But how do we move from vicious to virtuous cycles? How do we reframe this group's struggles into positive opportunities for change?
This was our key challenge that spurred the creation of The Emulate Project. Our experience shows us that young men want to and are ready to talk, listen and ask questions. But we need to give them the space and support to do so.
The Inqwire Campfire technology and process provided our participants with the tools and confidence to host conversations on topics that matter to them. We held discussions on themes including ‘what does it mean to be a role model’, ‘what is curiosity’ and ‘what does it mean to be encouraging’?
Our group found these inquiries truly thought provoking and teased out so many powerful insights. They also served a more implicit purpose of bringing our diverse group of young men closer together.
Get involved
If you or know anybody that would like to be a part of this transformative programme please
contact Ben (bmiller@ipswichcm.org.uk) or Ramon (rbradshawlogan@ipswichcm.org.uk) to
learn more.
Would you like to meet new people? Would you appreciate opportunities to be creative
(music & media), be active (sport & outdoors) and be more entrepreneurial?
The next phase will see the launch of our Social Club on the 23rd September and will run every Monday at The Smokehouse - this is open to 16-25 year old men living in Ipswich. Young people can come along to a taster session and see if they like the feel of the project and the people. There's no pressure to come to every session. It's relaxed and a safe space.
We would also like to hear from you if you’re interested in collaborating. Please visit our
website at www.ipswichcm.org.uk to find out more
For more info on Inqwire visit: https://www.inqwire.io/offering/inqwire-campfire
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