Hello, I’m Leia, and I am here at HIP on a 6-month placement as part of Artswork’s Breakthrough Programme. In this blog, I’ll be writing about my time starting my role as Concerts and Events Coordinator.
Artswork is an arts charity that provides creative industry opportunities for young people. The Breakthrough programme is a paid employability scheme which takes place across creative industries in the south-east of England to provide entry routes into the creative industry for 18-25 year olds who are struggling to find meaningful employment. It provides work experience and employability skills and a stepping stone into the arts.
During my first two weeks, I had some really insightful training. I learned how to make an elevator pitch and created a presentation for Louise Govier, the CEO of Artswork, about why I believe young people from underrepresented backgrounds deserve a voice in the arts regardless of where they are from. What particularly drew me to HIP was the learning and participation events that help primary school students gain access to classical music. As a singer-songwriter and pianist myself, I understand how important it is to create spaces to encourage young people to engage with music and how much it can positively impact their wellbeing and mental health. I am so excited to get stuck in at HIP and help to promote and preserve classical music, as well as enable the local community to get better access to the arts.
Although I’ve only been here one month, my confidence in a professional setting has already improved significantly. Working alongside Michelle, I have had the opportunity to develop new skills in marketing and learn about SEO, as well as the chance to strengthen my previous skills in short-form content for social media. One of the highlights of working here is being surrounded by such kind and welcoming colleagues, which has given me a sense of belonging and optimism about a career in the creative industry.
Another highlight is getting to watch world-renowned musicians play in my local area. On my first day at work, I was treated to the Stables Theatre concert where Ryan Zhu gave a spectacular show, including an exciting performance of Chopin’s Ballades. It was lovely to see familiar faces as the local community came together to enjoy a wonderful evening of classical music.
I am looking forward to communicating with our pianists, the local community and young music makers over the course of this internship. Artswork’s mission to support young people in taking their first steps into the creative industry is so important, especially now when young people are facing so many barriers to employment. Funding cuts to arts subjects, along with the stigma around creative disciplines in schools, can leave young people feeling discouraged. It is important for organisations to hire young people as they can introduce important new perspectives into the workplace. I hope to do just that during my time at HIP, and I look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Leia is a Music and Philosophy graduate from Royal Holloway University of London who enjoys singing, performing and composing for period instruments such as harpsichord.
