Brave Island, an online platform open to 14 to 25-year-olds on the Isle of Wight, has announced ambitious plans to offer free opportunities every week in 2023.
Devised and run by Ventnor Exchange, and built by web/tech agency Meeja, the platform aims to provide mentoring, funding, experiences and training for young people interested in the creative industries.
Every week is different
The site lists new opportunities to get involved with, learn new skills, get free tickets to events or even paid jobs and commissions.
Every week is different, and every experience is free, with travel costs also included.
Variety of opportunities on offer
Opportunities currently open to apply for include the opportunity to work with an artist to take over an empty shop in a local High Street, a 48 hour film challenge supported by the BFI Film Academy, DJ lessons and a backstage tour and workshop with the Technical Manager of King’s Theatre in Southsea, exploring skills like hemp rope flying and programming lighting.
Additional support
Launched as a pilot during the Covid lockdown, the number and range of opportunities on offer though the Brave Island site is being expanded following the news before Christmas of investment from Arts Council England and additional support from the Trusthouse Charitable Foundation.
Whitewood: Building a creative network of young people Islandwide
Creative Director, Jack Whitewood, explained,
“During the pilot phase nearly 300 young people from across the Island have signed up to Brave Island, demonstrating there is real interest and demand.
“Growing up on the Island it can often feel like opportunities are hard to come by, and like any rural area it can be isolating.
“Through Brave Island we want to build a creative network of young people Islandwide, helping bring people together and removing barriers that can make it hard to get your foot in the door.”
Find out more
Young people interested in finding out more can sign up at any time on braveisland.uk to receive weekly notifications of the opportunities on offer.
The platform is open to 14 to 25-year-olds on the Isle of Wight who are interested in a career in the creative industries or simply looking for opportunities to try new experiences and meet new people.
