In a unique initiative, HORIZONS: Creative Industries Career Launchpad is a 12-month project supporting career pathways for young creatives across regional New South Wales. With a cohort of 75 regional-based young creatives, HORIZONS seeks to demonstrate that a fulfilling creative career is not only attainable but sustainable in a regional context.
Selected through an application process, participants aged 16 to 27 represent the vibrant diversity and talent within regional NSW. From our local region are: Andy Dang, Juniper Martin, Thomas Clifford Ryan, Emily Smallmon and Kasey Tudor. Central to the project’s ethos is the inclusion of young people from diverse backgrounds, including 7 First Nations participants.
Arts Upper Hunter is one of the 15 Regional Arts Development Organisations (RADOs) that is leading the project which aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem of creative activities and enterprises within regional communities.
By providing mentorship from 14 experienced regional based professionals, the program offers guidance to young creatives practising across a diverse range of art forms including visual arts, film, graphic design, writing, theatre, music, dance, and textiles. Through a program of individual and group mentor sessions, participants will not only hone their art but also develop a robust network of like-minded individuals from across the state, reducing their sense of isolation and fostering collaboration.
“In the face of challenges such as the withdrawal of tertiary arts courses across regional NSW, HORIZONS supports young people to envision a future where they can pursue their passions while staying connected to their hometowns.” added John O’Brien. “By mapping a pathway for young people to be supported in their career choice, we are laying the foundation for a diverse and sustainable regional economy.”
The program, funded by the state government’s Regional Youth Investment Program, not only nurtures individual artistic growth but also holds the potential for the establishment of new creative enterprises within the region. The message is clear for the wider community, including career advisors and parents, that there is immense potential and value for a career in the cultural industries.
As Horizons unfolds statewide, it will assist in cultivating a thriving creative ecosystem, supporting and inspiring young people to stay and enrich their local communities.
For more information please contact John O’Brien, Executive Director of AUH on 0409 382 509.
