BBC Launches UNBOXD Campaign to Engage Youth in Future Planning

The BBC has introduced UNBOXD, an innovative campaign aimed at engaging young people aged 16 to 24. This initiative seeks to understand their preferences and ensure their voices are included in shaping the future of the organization. UNBOXD will utilize a variety of methods, including AI-powered chatbot interviews and interactive digital workshops led by youth engagement specialists, to connect with this demographic.

Last week, the BBC released findings from its “Our BBC, Our Future” questionnaire, which garnered an impressive 872,701 responses from across the UK. While many participants were between the ages of 18 to 24, the BBC aims to delve deeper into the specific needs and interests of young people. The organization is collaborating with Children in Need and other youth-focused entities throughout the UK to achieve this goal.

Listening to Young Voices

The BBC is committed to understanding what matters most to today’s youth as it navigates a rapidly changing media landscape. This involves listening to their concerns, interests, and opinions about emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, as well as their criteria for online trustworthiness. UNBOXD goes beyond simply gathering feedback; it strives to create a platform where young people can engage with the BBC and see content that resonates with their experiences.

To facilitate this engagement, the new BBC UNBOXD website invites individuals aged 18 to 24 to participate in a brief online questionnaire and express their views. Additionally, the BBC will collaborate with popular social media creators to discuss relevant topics with their followers, ensuring that young voices are amplified.

The campaign culminates in a live event scheduled for early next year in Birmingham. This event will bring together young participants to explore the insights gathered, share their perspectives, and celebrate their roles in shaping the BBC’s future.

Commitment to Relevance and Inspiration

Kerris Bright, the BBC’s Chief Customer Officer, emphasized the importance of understanding young audiences. “It’s vital that we understand what matters most to young audiences today and that they can shape our services of tomorrow,” she stated. Bright highlighted UNBOXD as a means to listen, learn, and ensure that the BBC reflects the lives, interests, and aspirations of the younger generation.

The outcomes of this research will inform BBC teams involved in creating and commissioning content for young people. It will also support the organization’s long-term planning as it enters the BBC Charter Review process. By engaging with youth, the BBC aims to remain relevant, useful, and inspiring to this demographic both now and in the future.