The UKON Careers Project has officially launched, marking the start of a new initiative designed to support pathways into the creative industries while promoting health, wellbeing, and community engagement through carnival arts.

Delivered in partnership with a range of organisations and local stakeholders, the project brings together creativity, culture, and skills development. It aims to create accessible opportunities for young people and adults to explore careers in the creative sector, while using participatory arts to support wellbeing and social connection.

The launch event introduces the project’s vision and outlines a programme of activities planned for the coming months. Central to the initiative is the carnival costume programme, inspired by this year’s theme, Birds of Paradise. Chosen by local young people and adult participants, the theme celebrates colour, movement, and self-expression, while highlighting cultural pride and shared community identity.

Guests attending the launch are invited to explore a small exhibition of carnival costumes, showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity at the heart of the project. The event also features a range of interactive workshops, including steelpan, dance, and carnival craft. These practical sessions are designed to encourage creativity, support wellbeing, and help participants develop transferable skills linked to the creative industries.

Environmental awareness is another key focus of the UKON Careers programme. Activities promote sustainable approaches to making and encourage participants to engage creatively with shared spaces, reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility within cultural practice.

The project places a strong emphasis on inclusion, bringing together residents, schools, artists, and community groups in a shared cultural experience. Rooted in Caribbean carnival traditions, it also reflects the local area’s diverse heritage, drawing on British, European, and African influences to create an inclusive and representative programme.

By combining creative participation with career development and wellbeing support, UKON Careers aims to strengthen community connections and open up new opportunities within the creative arts.

The organisers are welcoming members of the community to attend the launch, meet the project team and partner organisations, and find out more about upcoming opportunities.

The UKON Careers Project is supported using public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.