Founded in 2011 by Alec Thompson-Miller, ACE Voices is a community-led initiative based in Aberdeen that is passionate about incorporating playfulness into the everyday lives of the community to empower people to express themselves creatively. Over the last 10 years, ACE Voices have brought over 10,000 people of all ages together - in one-to-one settings, groups, and by working in partnership with other organisations.
Community is at the core of ACE Voices. Alec is passionate about creating transformative spaces where people can come together to grow, use and believe in the power of their own voice.
“Every person has a unique voice, and whether it’s singing, dancing, storytelling, drawing, physical activity, or being in nature, our voices are a form of self-expression.”
Alec
ACE Voices runs a leadership programme for young people as well as outdoor activities with schools and other partners. Alec’s nature projects connect people of all ages and are co-produced spaces where people have the freedom to explore, grow, make mistakes and take risks.
Not only does Alec want to empower people who may struggle with low self-esteem, mental or physical health issues, he is also passionate about championing larger social causes through collaboration across the sectors. As a creative practitioner, Alec wants his work to contribute to the wider discussion on developmental language disorders, the importance of relationship building in music, sign language and outdoor learning. He is often bridge building between NHS and other statutory services and the community to tackle some of these bigger issues.
“ACE Voices is all about inspiring people to make a positive difference in their lives and the wider community, and to stand up for the health and wellbeing of our planet, in particular committing to the future of our communities and the generations to come.”
Alec
Alec wants to widen the impact of ACE Voices through growing his youth leadership programme, promoting friendship and understanding between generations, and working towards social and structural changes. Alec believes The Multiplier came at the right time for ACE Voices.
“After years of building foundations, I am in a transformative stage and ready to build on my community play spaces.”
Alec
Alec applied for the programme as our own approach to community building resonated with his ideas about inspiring systemic change through positive, grounded social action. We’re excited to join Alec on his journey, and help to nurture ACE Voices so that Alec can continue to voice his community, create agency in his local area and bridge divides between people in Aberdeen.