A group of deaf students from Jesmond’s Northern Counties School expressed their pride and excitement after their signed music video was featured at the MOBO Awards in Newcastle.
Thirteen students participated in the performance, with eight attending the prestigious event at the Utilita Arena on Tuesday.
The MOBO Awards, founded in 1996 to celebrate Black music and culture in the UK and beyond, provided a platform for the students to showcase their talent.
Their video, featuring a signed performance of God Gave Me Feet for Dancing by Ezra Collective, was played to an audience of top musicians.
Fifteen-year-old Liam described the experience as something he would “remember for the rest of my life,” while 17-year-old Sophie shared that she felt truly “included.” Fourteen-year-old Kameron, who has autism, expressed his joy at being involved, saying, “To feel included was great.”
Northern Counties School, part of the Percy Hedley Foundation, supports children with disabilities aged three to 19.
The choir’s participation was part of a wider initiative by Newcastle and Gateshead councils to involve local schools in the event.
Choir leader Mandy Davison emphasized the significance of the moment, saying, “The attendance of our students at the MOBO Awards highlighted the importance of inclusivity, proving to the students that their talent deserves a spotlight, no matter their differences.”
The event also marked historic wins, with Ayra Starr becoming the first African woman to win Best International Act and the first woman in 16 years to be named Best African Music Act.
Central Cee made history as the first artist to win Best Male Act three times.
With the MOBO Awards bringing the celebration of Black music to Newcastle, the presence of the Northern Counties students made the occasion even more special, reinforcing the message that music is for everyone.
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