National Storytelling Week: Not just for kids- stories can inspire, inform, educate and connect all of us
Stories aren’t just for children. They shape the way we all see and imagine the world, challenge perspectives, and spark change. National Storytelling Week (1st–9th February) reminds us of the power of storytelling—not just in books, but in real-life conversations that bring people together.
At The Roots Programme, storytelling is core to how we grow, connect, and create impact. We tell our story to funders, partners, supporters and programme particpants, showing them why our work matters. Our founder, Ruth Ibegbuna, has shared her own journey—why she started Roots, how her experiences shaped her vision, and the impact we’re having in communities across the UK. The Roots team have all shared their stories that have brought them to The Roots programme. These stories bring our mission to life, demonstrating the power of deep connections in bridging divides.
And it’s not just us—storytelling is embedded in all our programmes. Whether it’s a young person in Roots Futures reflecting on a conversation that challenged their assumptions, an Adult Exchange participant sharing their journey of migration and belonging, or a community member in Community Conversations speaking about life in their town—these stories educate, inspire, and build understanding.
By sharing real experiences, we help people reimagine their world and that of others, seeing it not as a place of division, but one of connection, curiosity, and compassion.
This National Storytelling Week, we invite you to reflect on the stories that have shaped you. What perspectives have shifted because of a story you’ve heard? What stories do you want to tell?
Join the conversation. Share your story. Reimagine your world.
