The Creative Collective – shaping the future of East London Dance

East London Dance’s Creative Collective is a paid advisory board of creatives between the ages of 18 – 35 who reflect our community and meet every two months (six times a year) to play a vital part in shaping and influencing our programme, content and policies*.

It is important to us to put the young people, artists, creatives, teachers, participants and audiences that we work with and work for, at the heart of our decision making. Through this imperative and a commitment to change, inclusivity, equity and collaboration we have brought together this passion led Collective to help us make the best possible impact in our communities. 

“The Creative Collective has helped me to be more confident in expressing myself, ideas and feelings. Since being part of this I feel as though my voice matters and I matter being in the room.” Creative Collective Member

As a group of critical friends the Collective listen, question, challenge and make recommendations across all aspects of our organisational, programme and content planning and delivery. In exchange for their paid help shaping East London Dance’s future, being part of the Collective has the following benefits:

• Connection to an interesting group of creatives who care about culture, creativity, people and the planet
• Development of skills and voice in leading, advising and influencing
• Up to 3 paid professional development training sessions giving insight and perspective to enhance creativity, impact and future leadership
• Insight into how the cultural sector works
• Leadership training
• Mentorship from East London Dance’s team
• Board buddying with East London Dance’s trustees
• Opportunities to connect with our core team, trustees and programme

“It’s been great to share parts of our lived experiences to help influence policies for the benefit of others. Being part of the Creative Collective has also really encouraged me to think about my own practice… and has made me feel empowered as someone who works in the arts. It has lessened my feelings of imposter syndrome, as I feel like there is power and value in my voice.” Creative Collective Member

The Creative Collective is supported by Paul Hamlyn Foundation and Arts Council England

(*Our policies map out what is important to us, the actions we will take to achieve what is important and ultimately guiding how we run things).

THE CREATIVE COLLECTIVE 2024/25

Top row: Camila, Chevon, Christopher, Elettra, Gethana | Bottom row: Jayda, Lee, Nicolette (Chair), Rene, Vinay