About Us

As the organisation grew, it embraced carnival arts
as a dynamic and creative medium to achieve its objectives

ABOUT UKON CAREERS

UKON Careers, established in May 2014 as a Community Interest Company (C.I.C), began with a mission to provide empowering career guidance and motivational support for young people and the broader community. Working with parents, carers, and partners, UKON Careers aimed to promote diversity, equality of opportunity, and economic well-being by helping individuals make informed decisions about education, employment, and training. Recognising the value of culture, UKON expanded its focus by integrating cultural and artistic elements—particularly carnival arts—into its core services.

By blending career development with cultural engagement, UKON Careers adopted a holistic, community-centred model that emphasises social cohesion, personal growth, and economic opportunity. Carnival arts became central to this approach, providing creative workshops in skills such as mask-making and costume design, which support employability while celebrating cultural heritage and including careers education and guidance. This evolution positions UKON Careers as a unique platform where art, education, careers and employment intersect, driving social impact and economic growth across diverse communities.

UKON
MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to deliver engaging, motivational, and inspirational projects that promote cohesion, inclusion, and both economic and emotional wellbeing for individuals and their communities. We are dedicated to developing and expanding the reach of carnival arts locally and nationally, using them as a tool to build engagement, encourage cultural appreciation, and foster meaningful participation. By creating fun, accessible, and safe spaces, we support people of all backgrounds to develop skills, enhance their mental health, and contribute to stronger, more united communities.

UKON
VISION STATEMENT

At UKON, we envision a future where individuals and communities thrive in an environment of economic wellbeing, safety, and inclusion. We aim to reduce poverty and create safer communities by inspiring success and unlocking the full potential of every individual. Through the power of carnival arts, we foster participation, cultural understanding, and personal growth, while addressing crucial societal issues such as employability, mental health, and reducing violence. Our work bridges generations, making our programs accessible to all, regardless of ability or disability, ensuring everyone can freely express themselves in welcoming, supportive spaces.

Opportunities
with UKON

To support the above UKON Careers provides opportunities for volunteering, work experience, internships, and apprenticeships. These initiatives are designed to help individuals gain practical
experience, supporting both their short-term and long-term career goals.

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