RISING
VOICES

Manchester's first festival turning culture into change

Supporting 42nd Street Manchester

March 23–29, 2026

Rising Voices Partner with us

Our Mission

We confront social issues through art and culture, building empathy, sparking conversations, and supporting real change. Rising Voices focuses on youth depression, uniting people across Europe to break stigma and create solidarity.

Spark meaningful conversations

Foster empathy and understanding

Inspire action and positive change

Our Vision

A society where art empowers individuals to become agents of social transformation.

Who We Are

We’re not a typical events company — we’re a civic movement that turns culture into change.

In a world of labels, we choose a simple truth: we are human — and no one gets left behind.

Art X Impact designs cultural experiences that open conversations, build empathy, and move people to act. We create value — and give it back to the community.

Our events are more than shows. They are safe spaces where young people, women, and under-represented voices are heard. We use art not as decoration, but as a tool for change.

We stand for hope and dignity.
Not charity, but justice. Not pity, but community.

How our model works

  • 60% funds social-impact projects with partners like 42nd Street

  • 40% sustains operations so the mission remains independent and long-term

  • Transparent reporting — public updates (first release April 2026)

  • Sustainable growth → more events, more impact

  • Accountability to our community and partners

*For Rising Voices 2026: 100% of net proceeds go to 42nd Street.

RISING VOICES

Manchester's first festival where culture becomes the catalyst for change

March 23–29, 2026

Youth Mental Health

Breaking the silence around depression and anxiety through art, music, and authentic conversations that matter.

1 in 5
UK Youth Affected
75%
Start Before 24

Women's Workplace Equity

Addressing toxic environments and harassment through workshops, dialogue, and community support.

53%
Face Discrimination
68%
Hospitality Workers

Why Now?

Young people are struggling. Women are fighting workplace battles that shouldn't exist. The traditional approach isn't working. It's time for a new conversation.

Rising Voices brings communities together through the universal language of art and culture, creating safe spaces where real change begins.

Together, we turn culture into change.
Lineup

If you're struggling, please reach out. Help is available — you're not alone.

Samaritans

116 123

Always open (24/7)

NHS

111

In an emergency, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. If you’re outside the UK, please contact your local emergency services.

42nd Street

Every ticket to Rising Voices supports 42nd Street’s work with young people in Manchester.

42nd Street is a Manchester charity supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people aged 11–25. They’re more than a service — they’re a lifeline when life feels hardest.

Therapy & Counselling

One-to-one and group support for depression, anxiety, and complex needs.

Creative Expression

Art, music, and creative programmes that help young people find their voice.

Crisis Support

Immediate guidance and safe pathways in moments of crisis or trauma.

42nd Street Manchester building

Why 42nd Street?

They meet young people where they are — not only in clinics, but in schools, communities, and creative spaces.

Like Rising Voices, they use creativity and connection to heal and empower.

Our Promise to You

For Rising Voices 2026, 100% of net proceeds go to 42nd Street. After essential event costs, every penny supports young people’s mental health in Manchester.

Visit 42nd Street

The Lineup

Seven days. Five experiences. One mission: turning culture into change.

Mon–Fri
March 23–27
Impact Waves Podcast
Podcast Series

Impact Waves

Morning talks with professionals, evening shows with creators. Stories that matter.

5 days Pros & creators Live music
Mon–Fri
March 23–27
Fit Fusion Event
Wellness & Performance

Fit Fusion

Where fitness meets fun: workouts, challenges, and energy that inspire.

Live workouts Athletes on stage Community vibes
Friday
March 27
Retro Rewind Event
Music Night

Retro Rewind

A night of timeless hits, live DJs, and pure energy on stage.

Live DJs Classic vibes Dance floor
Saturday
March 28
Grand Finale Event
Closing Night

Grand Finale

A powerful closing night with music, art, and stories that unite us all.

Live performances Special guests Final celebration
Sunday
March 29
Fashion Night Event
Style & Creativity

Fashion Night

An evening of runway shows, bold designs, and creative expression on stage.

Runway shows Young designers Live performances

Full Details Coming Soon

Venue locations, artist lineups, and ticket information will be announced by January 2026. Join our movement now to be the first to know.

Partner With Us Next Event

EU Partners

We're finalising the confirmations from our European partner organisations before displaying their names and logos. Each partnership deserves to be presented with the same care, respect, and transparency that guide everything we do. The full list of partners will be published very soon.

Get Involved

Join the movement. Your support turns culture into change for young people in Manchester.

Partner with purpose. Reach a values-driven audience and power real impact.

Volunteer

Join the crew behind the scenes. Learn, connect, and make a difference.

Venue Partnership

Host workshops or a charity menu and turn your space into impact.

Become a Supporter

No fees, no fundraising — just a shout-out swap. Promote Art X Impact and we’ll feature your business on our socials and Supporters wall.

Complete transparency

Radical openness. Real impact. Every penny is tracked and reported.

Complete Transparency

We don’t just talk about transparency — we live it. Every month, we publish clear reports showing where every pound goes, how it’s used, and the impact it creates.

Monthly Reports
Breakdown of income, costs, and donations — line by line.
Event Breakdowns
See what each event raised and how funds were allocated.
Impact Tracking
Updates from 42nd Street on real outcomes for young people.
Reports go live: April 2026

FAQ