Building the Future: A Community Comes Together with LEGO at Penrith Real Festival
Over two incredible days families, friends, and individuals came together for an event that was much more than just building with LEGO—it was about building connections, community, and inclusivity. Hosted by Wondiverse, a neurodivergent-led organisation, the free event “Build the Future” invited people of all ages and abilities to participate in creating a shared LEGO city. From two-year-olds to 84-year-olds, the event was a true celebration of community collaboration, inclusion, and creativity.
Wondiverse’s mission is simple but profound: to create a world where all neurotypes can work and play together. As founder Madeleine Jaine Lobsey shared, “Whilst we built a city, the real future is the people.”
And that’s exactly what happened. Over the course of the event, people built more than just structures—they built bonds. Strangers became collaborators, families worked side by side, and a vibrant, inclusive space emerged where everyone could feel like they belonged.
What Did People Love About “Build the Future”?
The feedback from participants was heartwarming and spoke to the deeper impact of the event. When asked what they liked most, people expressed joy, connection, and the thrill of creativity. Here’s what they had to say:
- “Felt part of something.”
- “Favourite part of the Real Festival.”
- “I was just watching the kids, then I couldn’t help myself and joined in to build.”
- “Encouraging creativity and free thinking.”
For many, “Build the Future” offered a chance to engage in something outside their usual routine. Several attendees mentioned how rare it was for their families, especially those with neurodivergent children, to feel welcomed and included at public events:
- “We don’t normally go to things like this, so it was amazing to get out of the house and have so much fun.”
- “My child was able to participate in the community build where normally they feel not included.”
- “Great way for all ages to be together—it felt real and safe.”
A Safe and Inclusive Space for Everyone
Wondiverse has always prioritised creating environments where everyone—regardless of their neurotype—can feel at home. For families with neurodivergent children, public spaces can often be overwhelming, but the “Build the Future” event made sure to offer a space that was safe, calm, and understanding. The staff, trained in neurodiversity, played a huge part in creating this atmosphere:
- “It’s fun to have hands-on activities for the kids, particularly when it can be so overwhelming for neurodiverse children.”
- “Great to have LEGO for autistic kids.”
Families expressed deep gratitude for the thoughtful setup and the way their children were encouraged and supported. One parent shared a particularly touching moment:
- “My kid never feels like he is good at stuff, the staff made him feel like a legend. Thanks!”
Collaboration and Creativity in Action
What made this event truly special was the spirit of collaboration that emerged from it. The collective LEGO city that was built over two days became a metaphor for the future we want to create—one where everyone has a place, and every contribution counts. People worked side by side, with each brick adding to the bigger picture:
- “Seeing so many people contribute to one big project was amazing.”
- “Loved the community collaboration.”
- “Inspiring to allow kids to be a part of building for the future.”
For some families, the event provided a much-needed chance to unwind, be creative, and simply have fun together:
- “It was fun and relaxed—my kids wouldn’t move and built for almost two hours.”
- “The creativity and freedom, as well as the open space, made this event stand out.”
A Moment to Remember for All Ages
The most beautiful thing about “Build the Future” was how it brought together people of all ages. From young children to grandparents, the joy of building and creating was infectious. One of the event’s most touching moments came from a 79-year-old participant who shared:
- “I am 79 and always wanted to be part of designing the future. I will consider this my chance to tick that off the bucket list.”
Another attendee spoke about the pride their daughters felt in contributing to something bigger than themselves:
- “My daughters felt like they achieved something.”
Looking Ahead
The “Build the Future” event wasn’t just about building a LEGO city—it was about bringing people together to create something meaningful. As participants watched their collective work take shape, it became clear that the real future we’re building is one of community, inclusion, and creativity. In a world where everyone, no matter their age, background, or neurotype, can contribute, we all thrive.
Many participants asked, “When’s the next one?” we couldn’t help but smile, knowing that this is just the beginning of many more inclusive and creative events to come.
Wondiverse is proud to be part of this journey, building not just cities, but futures—where everyone has a place to belong.
I am 79 and always wanted to be part of designing the future. I will consider this my chance to tick that off the bucket list.