Westminster's 'looked after' children showcase work

The theme of event, held on Tuesday, was 'Who am I?' and explored the concept of identity.

Pictures made by the young people during an eight-day long Chelsea School of Art workshop and a documentary film made on an educational trip to the Gambia were also on display.

Friends Evelyn Connors, and Cally Nassralla, who attended the trip to the Gambia agreed it had given them confidence in their own abilities.

Evelyn, 16, said: "It really made me appreciate life and my education and realise that no matter how bad things get, you need to appreciate what you have."

Cally, 18, who is joining Evelyn in studying for a travel and tourism diploma, added: "When I came back from the Gambia I really wanted to do something positive."

Speaking about the Tate event she added that it was a good way to encourage and let other care leavers and looked after children know the opportunities that are available to them.

Another care leaver Gazmen Duraku-Hodic, 19, explained how while he was on the trip to the Gambia he learned more about his own personality and identity by sharing with the people he met and learning about their culture.

Gazmen is now applying for a taxi-driver course after recently studying mechanical engineering at Kingston College.

Westminster Council's cabinet member for children's services Cllr Sarah Richardson said: "I would like to commend all the young people on their achievements; I have been extremely impressed with the quality of the artwork and performances which I hope will inspire both children and their carers for another successful year ahead."

The event was also a chance for the young people to give feedback and suggest improvements on the fostering service.