10 Networking Events Celebrating Diversity, Empowering Womxn and more.

posted by Marcroy January 16, 2023

Networking is a pivotal part of a successful career in the creative industry, as research has highlighted that a majority of professionals gain employment from individuals within their social circle. This may seem challenging, particularly for introverted people, however, attending an event with people who share your passions will enable you to form new relationships and develop a supportive community.

To facilitate this, we have compiled a list of 10 networking events across the UK – a selection of online and in-person gatherings that accommodate for everyone from general interest to those advocating specific matters such as diversity or the empowerment of womxn in leadership. Explore the events and begin your networking journey.

I Like Networking is a career platform dedicated to helping women and non-binary people in the creative industries to reach their fullest potential and build more equitable workplaces. It holds events and networking sessions to aid people with getting their business started, as well as making strides in certain careers.

Pocc is a powerful network devoted to fostering cultural transformation. It unites artists of the same mind by connecting them through WhatsApp groups and organising interactive meet-ups and discussions. Furthermore, the network strives to bring light to non-inclusive artistic settings and point out problematisations in regards to the portrayal of cultures.

Creatives around the United Kingdom, around the world and on the web are gathering in CreativeMornings, to create a bridge between connections, culture and possibilities. Local branches organised by voluntary organisers are keen to honour the city’s creative power and generate a room where similar minded people can link. They hold an impressive record of previous morning conversations with both eminent designers and hometown legends.

Creative Quests is a dynamic community which organises a digital programme every month, encouraging users to embrace their creativity in a collaborative environment with fellow Questers all over the globe. From exploring Colour to Rewilding, Collage, Movement, Poetry and Home, each Quest has its own unique theme that provides new opportunities to expand horizons and perspectives. In addition, the platform offers engaging and stimulating workshops on a weekly basis.

Bricks Learner’s Platform emerged in response to the growing demand for more easily available and different methods of learning. Through the platform, they hope to address the numerous issues facing up and coming creatives, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It gives them access to a digital space where they can discover and benefit from podcasts, conversations, lectures and seminars to aid them in navigating the creative field.

The Other Box is a dedicated initiative that seeks to increase the involvement of individuals from various underrepresented backgrounds in the creative industry. They are a safe and inclusive platform that creates an opportunity for open discussions, in addition to providing a rapidly growing online space for its members to share ideas, inspirations, updates, upcoming events and the like.

Ladies, Wine and Design is a globally renowned non-profit organisation striving to reverse the shocking reality that only 0.1% of creative firms are founded by women and non-binary people. UK-based branches can be found in various areas such as Belfast, Bournemouth, Brighton, Cheltenham, Exeter, Ipswich and Lancaster, as well as alternative cities. This open and welcoming community facilitates multiple online and in-person gatherings as well as chances for like-minded people to come together.

According to the Association of Illustrators, illustration can be a lonesome profession at times, and their UK meetups, including Norwich, Cardiff, Leeds, London and others, look to get those involved in the industry to connect with their peers, digitally and face-to-face. Lead by the Association of Illustrators’ volunteer members, the meet-ups are accessible to all illustrators, with AOI members given a reduced price.

This program offers financial resources, learning experiences and a network of encouragement for women entrepreneurs in London, Manchester and Glasgow, including FoundHER and AllBright festival. AllBright touches on subjects like women in journalism and advice for overcoming any difficulties that come up during a career journey.

Creative Equals is a diverse organisation which strives to level the playing field of the creative industry by offering support, grants and various programs. They organise a myriad of events with inspiring industry professionals and provide Talkshops – interactive gatherings that both teach and initiate dialogue.