Factory International and adidas Originals have announced launched of the Originals Creator Network (OCN) North, a six-month development opportunity for 20 young creatives living in and around Manchester.
OCN North builds on the success of the London Creator Network programme, established to provide opportunities to underrepresented talent within London’s creative scene. The extension of the programme comes off the back of research that found the North of England represents just 15% of creative industries employment despite being home to 23% of the British population. The programme will look to provide pathways into the industry for aspiring creatives based in the north without them having to move away from the region.
Based at Manchester’s Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, OCN North will deliver creative development and work-based learning opportunities to a cohort of 20 across a six-month period. Successful applicants will receive a bursary of £600, mentorship, masterclasses from industry experts, and work experience opportunities with adidas and Factory International, culminating in a creative showcase at Aviva Studios. These sessions hope to provide the participants with the tools they need to establish themselves as creatives and further develop and continue their pathway to working in the creative industries.
“Launching the Originals Creator Network North project is a testament to the strength of the programme and the impact it has made within London’s creative scene over the past three years. Together with Factory International, we’re committed to supporting the next generation of emerging creatives in the North of England, creating positive onward journeys for our network by nurturing their talent and equipping them with skills to support their future careers,” said Chris Walsh, adidas vice president, brand, North Europe.
The OCN North is a natural continuation of the work Factory International is already doing to inspire and empower young people and the next generation of artists and creatives, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Factory International offers a range of learning and training programmes including vocational training through the Factory Academy, and artist development opportunities, such as Factory Fellowships, which sees emerging artists placed alongside international creatives.
John McGrath, artistic director and chief executive, Factory International, said: “At Factory International, we believe in the power of the arts to inspire, excite, and engage, and also provide the basis for rewarding, life-long careers. We’re committed to making creative skills and opportunities accessible to everyone – from supporting emerging artists to training the next generation of diverse talent. Partnering with adidas on the Originals Creator Network North project is a fantastic opportunity to build on this work and connect with ever wider groups of young creatives”
Applications for this year’s OCN North are open now via Factory International, with the 6-month programme set to run from November 2024 to April 2025.
