Geopolitics, Trade and How the World Connects

Geopolitics isn't a subject that typically finds its way into the lives of young people in Hodge Hill. Pablo changed that for an afternoon – and did it in a way that made the room forget they were learning.

The session covered global trade routes, international relations, and how the connections between nations operate in practice. Complex ideas were made tangible through games and hands-on activities that brought abstract concepts to life. Young people who arrived with no framework for thinking about the world at a global scale left with one – and with questions they hadn't thought to ask before.

What stood out was Pablo's ability to pitch the material across a diverse range of ages without losing anyone. The energy in the room throughout reflected that – engaged, curious, participative. Thoughtful questions came from across the group.

Understanding how the world works – who trades with whom, why alliances form, how global decisions filter down to local realities – is knowledge that helps young people navigate their futures with more confidence and context. Sessions like this one are part of how BYO builds that bigger picture.

Thank you to Pablo for volunteering his time and preparing such a thorough and generous session.