Hackney's got talent!

Hackney Empire's stage was bursting with talent on Thursday 7 February during the launch of Hackney Council's Discover Young Hackney Festival.

The I'm In Talent contest showcased local singers, dancers, musicians and hip hop artists who had all been chosen by their peers - the festival's young cultural ambassadors - to take part in the event.

It kicked off the month-long arts and cultural festival which promotes participation and training in the arts for young people through a range of taster sessions and workshops run by creative professionals in music, dance, radio, art, photography, fashion design, singing, film and theatre.

Cllr Nargis Khan said: "Discover Young Hackney offers local young people the chance engage with their peers, develop creative skills and knowledge and discover ways into training and careers in the arts."

"It is also an opportunity for Hackney's vibrant arts and culture sector to showcase the excellent work they are doing and to reach out to a large number of young people in the borough."

To find out more about Discover Young Hackney visit the website telephone: 020 8356 7209 or email: cultural.development@hackney.gov.uk