UEL welcomes first cohort of Cultural Producers Programme

Creative Newham is an alliance of around 100 arts, cultural, education, and community organisations dedicated to expanding creative opportunities across Newham. As part of its Steering Group and as the lead for this project, UEL is proud to support its mission. 

The Cultural Producers Programme aims to develop producers capable of working across sectors, using creativity to address challenges in the arts, health, and the environment. UEL, an anchor institution for over 125 years, is honoured to lead Creative Newham’s Cultural Producers programme on behalf of the communities we serve. 

Following a competitive selection process involving more than 80 applicants and 25 interviews, 12 young creatives have been chosen to embark on this transformative six-month journey. Representing diverse backgrounds and disciplines – including dance, design, visual arts and acting – these participants bring unique perspectives and ambitions to make a lasting impact on Newham’s cultural landscape.

Through workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and placements with local organisations, each member of this cohort will gain practical, versatile skills essential for becoming effective Cultural Producers who can work across art -forms within our communities. Covering areas such as event management, budgeting, creative programming and community engagement, the programme equips trainees with the knowledge needed to bring ideas to life. The experience culminates in a group-led event at a local festival in the spring of 2025, where they will apply their learning in a real-world setting. 

Professor Dominic Hingorani, Strategic Lead Impact and Innovation for the School of Arts and Creative Industries at UEL and Creative Director: The Arts Venue and Partnership with Newham Youth Empowerment Service said,  

We are thrilled to welcome this diverse and talented group of young creatives into the Cultural Producers Programme. This initiative embodies UEL’s commitment to breaking down barriers to entry and providing a supported, real-world training experience that prepares the participants for successful careers in the cultural sector. 

“I’m very much looking forward to working with this fantastic, diverse group of 12 young creatives and witnessing a new generation of local talent gain the skills and confidence they need to enter the cultural workforce and enrich the cultural ecology of the borough from within.” 

Sanaz Amidi, Chair of Creative Newham, International Consultant, Creative & Cultural Economy said, 

"I’m delighted to see this unique initiative come to fruition with the announcement of the first cohort to the Cultural Producers Programme. This training is unique in that it takes an holistic approach in developing and supporting these talented emerging producers. It offers a carefully crafted and curated programme of the highest quality, led by industry experts and professionals, whilst also providing coaching, tailored placements, and pastoral care. 

“We’re so excited to see what this first cohort does next, following the completion of their training. We know that we will see the benefits of their learning experience not only for themselves but how this enriches Newham’s creative community more widely.  

“The Cultural Producers Programme is one of two major strands of work within the Newham’s Place Partnership programme. We are also developing the other complementary strand which focuses on powerful partnerships, the Creative Newham alliance and leveraging our collective creative voice to support positive ongoing change.” 

The Cultural Producers Programme stands as a testament to UEL and Creative Newham’s shared commitment to inclusivity, encouraging individuals from underrepresented communities to pursue and succeed in cultural leadership.  

Emily Cornuaud is one of the 12 talented creatives selected from a competitive pool of applicants to join the Cultural Producers Programme. Speaking about the programme, she said, 

“I feel like every day I am learning so much, not just about the act of being a cultural producer but also a lot about myself and how these feeds into the role. Each day provides a new and unique set of challenges, experiences and insights and it has been great so far.” 

The Cultural Producers Programme is supported by key funders, including Arts Council England, National Lottery Heritage Fund, Royal Docks, London Borough of Newham, Foundation for Future London, Westfield East Bank Creative Futures Fund, London Legacy Development Corporation, and University College London.  

Through this programme, UEL is committed to diversifying the talent pipeline, increasing access to cultural careers, fostering social mobility, and bringing new voices into the sector.