M.A.B.E.L
Maya Productions works with other organisations and individuals to increase workforce inclusion in the arts.
Paid Participatory Artist Traineeships
As part of our commitment to nurturing Global Majority talent and creating pathways into the creative industries, Maya Productions partnered with Darts, Doncaster’s award-winning Creative Health and Learning Charity, to deliver a programme of paid Participatory Artist Traineeships.
We recruited nine artists who were at an early stage in their careers, or who wished to expand their experience of using their artistic practice to deliver participatory activities that positively impacted people’s lives, learning and wellbeing. The traineeship provided an exciting opportunity to learn, practise and develop alongside highly experienced artists working across Creative Health and Learning settings.
Throughout the programme, trainees received paid professional development and practical experience, enabling them to build the skills, confidence and networks needed for careers in participatory arts, Creative Health and Learning.
The trainees were coached throughout the programme by Suzanne Gorman, Artistic Director of Maya Productions, and were mentored by prominent Global Majority industry professionals.
Through a combination of training, shadowing and hands-on delivery, trainees learned from experienced participatory artists and facilitators while observing and co-delivering creative workshops. They developed practical skills in facilitation, community engagement and creative leadership, built confidence in working with diverse communities, expanded their professional networks across the Creative Health and Learning sector, and explored pathways into future employment and freelance opportunities.
A key aim of the programme was to support the professional development and career progression of Global Majority artists working in participatory arts, Creative Health and Learning. The traineeship sought to address the underrepresentation of Global Majority practitioners within the sector by creating meaningful opportunities for artists to develop sustainable careers, strengthen their leadership skills and build lasting professional networks.
The programme reflects Maya Productions’ ongoing commitment to championing diverse voices and creating inclusive pathways into the arts, Creative Health and Learning sectors, ensuring that more Global Majority artists are equipped to lead creative practice within their communities and beyond.
This programme has been made possible through funding from the Yorkshire Policy Innovation Partnership’s Communities Innovating Yorkshire Fund.
THE TRAINEES:
In 2020, we embarked on a coaching and mentoring programme in association with Stage Sight for five industry professionals from global majority backgrounds.
Maya Productions were delighted and honoured to have had Doreen Foster, Alison Holder, Tony Gayle, Keith Saha and Roshni Savjani working with us on the programme, to strengthen and expand diversity across the sector, offering support and guidance to those who were at quite a pivotal moment.
THE MENTEES:
Stage Manager
Stuart Thomson
Producer, Fundraiser and Arts Manager
Annette Corbett
Writer, Composer and Sound Designer
Sarah Sayeed
Stage Manager
Inayah Thomas
Freelance Producer
Chateelah Green
TESTIMONIALS:
“I feel a better sense of professionalism – a good idea of how to network and establish a professional working relationship, as well as the confidence to feel like I belong in this industry. A more achievable career path, goal, plan and a better sense of calm.”
“I feel a lot clearer about my next career steps, and particularly how this relates to the arts.”
“I think this is an invaluable process for all artists and arts professionals at all stages of their career.”
We have also been working with the National Theatre, to explore the impact of the Step Change Career development programme on individuals from a diverse background.
To find out more how we can help you with your work and career progression please contact us.