Overview
During the 2022-23 academic year, Creative Access and Loughborough University collaborated to support Black and Asian students in career guidance and support. Through a series of initiatives, including showcase events, employability sessions, industry insights days and a mentoring programme, we aimed to enhance students’ understanding of, as we as raise awareness of opportunities within the creative industries.
Approach
Our showcase event featured a panel of successful alumni who shared insights and tips for success with 28 students. The bespoke employability session focused on portfolio development, networking, and personal branding, engaging 20 students. The industry insights day at ITV Studios provided 23 students with valuable behind-the-scenes experiences and networking opportunities. Additionally, our mentoring programme paired 20 students with industry professionals for six months, offering tailored support and guidance.
Impact
Feedback from participants highlighted the positive impact of our initiatives. Across events, respondents expressed increased confidence, inspiration, and optimism about pursuing careers in the creative industries. Specifically, the employability session helped develop crucial skills and knowledge for 84% of participants, while the mentoring programme beneficiaries spoke of: boosted confidence, industry understanding, CV and cover letter skills as well as an increased professional network they wouldn’t have otherwise had access to.
Testimonial
Loughborough University undergraduate student“Using Creative Access as a tool to look at jobs in the creative industry is effective. No matter what you are currently studying, you can get jobs in the creative industry if you apply yourself.”