Nearly 50 young people from across the country gathered in London to debate issues affecting young Black Britons today.

The discussion, filmed as part of an OBV documentary, was held in Brixton on Monday. The event saw youngsters take charge of the discussion table led by BBC 1Xtra DJ Iyare Igiehon on issues ranging from gun crime, education, gangs and career opportunities.

Speaking at the event, James Easy, 21, said: "I can say that it made me proud to be in a room full of articulate young Black people from different backgrounds. We were all given the opportunity to express our opinions on issues that affect us. Like myself, I saw that there are people out there who care about making a difference to society."

The documentary is being shot by director Paul Blake, who is well known for his directorial work debating the N-word in 'Sticks and Stones'.

The young people who took part in the filming felt that the discussion was very effective and enabled them to air their views in a way not usually available to them. Many of them agreed that there needed to be a positive change for young Black people in Britain.

Young people discuss youth issues

Student Marcus Smith, 20, said: "I found the experience to be really empowering, just being around a group of like-minded individuals who want to see change as well as hearing the different views of young Black people in England. It showed me that a lot of us want to see more unity between Black people - we are stronger together than apart."

Janet Wright, whose son was tragically murdered in a gun crime incident, said: "Tonight was very interesting and I was particularly surprised hearing young people speak so passionately about issues that are of great concern to them. I think we need a lot more discussion forums like this where young people can be heard and be able to get their opinions across."

Richard Johnson, 21, who helped with research for the documentary added: "I think that the younger generation needs positive change which will allow them to achieve and progress. Everyone needs to begin somewhere so I feel that this documentary highlighting young Black peoples' concerns is a good start."

Omotola Awofidipe, 21, who recently completed the OBV MP Shadowing Scheme, said that she had gained a lot from the debate and found it eye opening listening to people who live in the same areas but see and have different perspectives on issues. She added: "Seeing just how certain issues affect our self worth and achievement is especially important."

The documentary which is due to be completed within the next few weeks will be first broadcast on TV and then shown as part of OBV's schools and colleges educational programme.