BBC Launches UNBOXD to Empower Young Voices in Media Future

The BBC has initiated a new campaign called UNBOXD, designed to actively engage young people aged 16 to 24 in shaping the future of the organization. This initiative aims to better understand the interests and needs of this demographic as the BBC evolves to meet the challenges of a changing media landscape.

UNBOXD represents a significant effort to deepen the connection between the BBC and young audiences. The campaign will employ various innovative methods, including AI-powered chatbot interviews and interactive digital workshops led by youth engagement specialists. This multifaceted approach aims to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and taken into account in the BBC’s strategic planning.

In conjunction with this launch, the BBC released findings from the **Our BBC, Our Future** questionnaire, which garnered an impressive **872,701 responses** from individuals across the UK. While many from the **18 to 24 age group** participated, the BBC plans to conduct a more detailed investigation into the specific needs and interests of younger audiences. This will help inform content creation and strategic decisions moving forward.

Collaboration with Youth-Focused Organizations

The BBC is collaborating with organizations such as **Children in Need** and other youth-focused groups throughout the UK. This partnership is part of a broader commitment to understanding what is most relevant to the current generation. The BBC aims to address topics that resonate with young people, including their perspectives on emerging technologies like AI, their concerns about digital trust, and the issues they find most significant in their lives.

UNBOXD also seeks to go beyond mere data collection. The initiative intends to open the BBC’s doors to young audiences, presenting content that reflects their realities and aspirations. Interested individuals can engage with the campaign through the newly launched BBC UNBOXD website, where they can complete a brief online questionnaire and voice their opinions.

Engagement and Celebration in Birmingham

As part of the UNBOXD initiative, the BBC plans to collaborate with popular social media creators to connect with their followers and discuss pertinent topics. This outreach is designed to amplify young voices and integrate their feedback into the BBC’s future endeavors.

Looking ahead, the BBC will host a live celebration event in Birmingham early next year. This occasion will provide an opportunity for young people to gather, share their insights, explore the BBC’s extensive content offerings, and celebrate their role in influencing the organization’s future direction.

Kerris Bright, the BBC’s Chief Customer Officer, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “It’s vital that we understand what matters most to young audiences today and that they can shape our services of tomorrow. UNBOXD is about listening, learning, and making sure the BBC reflects their lives, interests, and ambitions for a long time to come.”

The insights gained from this campaign will play a crucial role in guiding BBC teams responsible for creating and commissioning content tailored for younger viewers. Additionally, the research will provide valuable input as the BBC navigates its ongoing Charter Review process, ensuring that it remains relevant and inspiring for future generations.