About
I amplify real stories to inspire change, challenge systems, and build more inclusive spaces.
LPAC PEER RESEARCH ON EDUCATION
As a Peer Researcher with the Lambeth Peer Action Collective, I collaborated with a dedicated team of young individuals to delve into the root causes of youth violence in our community. Our mission was to understand how factors like education, housing, and systemic inequalities contribute to the challenges faced by young people in Lambeth.
Through engaging over 400 young residents aged 11–25 in interviews and creative workshops, we gathered invaluable insights into their lived experiences. This research culminated in a comprehensive report launched in March 2023, shedding light on the pervasive issues affecting our youth.
Building on these findings, we co-created a twelve-point manifesto advocating for tangible changes in education and beyond. This manifesto emphasized the need for:
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An education system that is inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of students.
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School staff who recognize and respect the individuality of each student.
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A shift from punitive disciplinary measures to supportive interventions.
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A steadfast commitment to anti-racism and anti-discrimination within educational institutions.
Our efforts extended beyond research; we actively engaged with policymakers, presenting our manifesto at Parliament in 2022, and collaborated with local organizations to implement social action projects inspired by our findings.
This experience solidified my commitment to amplifying youth voices and driving systemic change, particularly within the education sector.
BIOGRAPHY
I’m Joshua Brown-Smith—an award-winning campaigner, youth advocate, entrepreneur, school governor, and international speaker. My mission is simple but powerful: to shift culture, amplify young voices, and help organisations think outside the box.
My journey began in Lewisham as a Political Advisor, where I witnessed firsthand the barriers faced by underserved and excluded youth. But this was more than just policy work—it was personal. I’ve lived through school exclusion and experienced the gaps in support systems that too many young people fall through.
Despite these challenges, I reclaimed my narrative—earning my GCSEs, continuing my education, and proving that your start doesn't define your future. Along the way, I discovered the transformative power of mentoring, coaching, and strategic advocacy.
Today, I lead Elevate & Excel to help change the narrative, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals and organisations to unlock their full potential. My work spans schools, government bodies, youth services, and international platforms—always with a focus on real-world change driven by lived experience.
MISSION
My mission is to create inclusive environments where young people are seen, heard, and supported. I work to bridge the gap between lived experience and leadership—ensuring that the voices of those most affected by exclusion and marginalisation are not just part of the conversation, but at the heart of change.
I support organisations, educators, and community leaders to reimagine how they engage with young people, especially those at risk of being written off. Through my work, I aim to build systems that are restorative, not reactive—and to equip others with the tools to lead with empathy, accountability, and impact.
THE METHOD
The Brown-Smith Method is a powerful three-step approach designed to drive meaningful engagement and sustainable change across schools, local government, youth services, and organisations. Rooted in lived experience and professional expertise, the method begins with Connect—building authentic relationships and creating safe spaces for open dialogue. It moves into Reflect—a guided process of critical thinking that challenges assumptions, explores systems, and encourages deeper understanding. Finally, it leads to Change—the co-creation of practical, actionable strategies that foster inclusion, equity, and long-term impact. Whether working with young people, educators, or leaders, the Brown-Smith Method ensures every voice is valued, every story is heard, and every solution is built to last.