Elevating Careers: My Journey from ELEVATOR to Youth Programme Development Consultant

Embarking on a career in the creative industries can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially for young people navigating their way through a sea of opportunities. Thankfully, programmes like ELEVATE are here to provide guidance, support, and fresh opportunities for Lambeth-based young people seeking to carve out a path in the vibrant world of creativity.

As a former ELEVATOR turned Youth Programme and Development Consultant, my journey with ELEVATE has been nothing short of transformative. From taster courses to paid internships, ELEVATE offers a diverse array of pathways for young creatives aged 18-30 to explore and pursue their passions within the creative industries.

At the heart of ELEVATE lies the ELEVATORS, a dynamic youth advisory board comprised of 10 passionate young creatives who live, study, or work in Lambeth. Together, we are committed to making creativity accessible to all young people in our borough, regardless of background or experience. From co-designing and consulting on ELEVATE programmes and projects to advocating for the needs and interests of young creative professionals, the ELEVATORs are catalysts for change and champions of creativity in our community.

But our journey doesn't end there. We continue to serve as alumni, guiding, advising, and curating future ELEVATE programmes for the next generation of Lambeth's creative talent. It's a cycle of empowerment and mentorship that ensures the legacy of creativity lives on in our borough for years to come.

In my role, I've had the privilege of providing expertise and insights for Lambeth's Creative & Digital Industries Strategy for Growth, contributing to initiatives that foster growth and innovation in our local creative ecosystem. From reviewing grant applications to offering consultancy services to local organisations, every step of the journey has been an opportunity to learn, grow and support the next wave of creative talent in Lambeth.

As we continue to elevate careers and empower young creatives on their journey, I'm reminded of the impact that mentorship, guidance, and community can have in shaping careers.