Networking to help youth Connect the Dots

A FREE event designed to support and inspire young and emerging creatives will be held at The Engine Room in View Street on Wednesday 3 September.

Connect the Dots: Creative Industries Pathways aims to create a welcoming space for creative conversations, networking and insight-sharing with local professionals working across a diverse range of artforms and creative businesses.

Participants aged 16 to 25 can expect a relaxed and fun atmosphere with food, prizes and live performances from local talents including Rhaedel Pickett, members of Broad Parade and singer-songwriter Sherri Parry, fresh back from her latest tour.

City of Greater Bendigo Creative City officer Mandy Field said the event was part of a broader initiative to support young people pursuing careers in the creative industries.

“The City is exploring the most effective ways to support young people who are seeking pathways in the creative industries,” she said.

“(We’re) developing resources, hosting events and working towards supporting further mentoring opportunities for young and emerging creatives.

“It can be challenging to make connections in the creative industries, and we hope events like Connect the Dots can help young people build their networks and gain valuable insights.”

Parry said she was appreciative to live in such a creatively inclusive community in Greater Bendigo.

“The opportunities here have allowed me to perform for over 10 years, record and release multiple records, headline my own tour, and meet and perform with world class musicians,” she said.

“Now, on the cusp of releasing my new album, I am full of gratitude and excited to be a part of an event that aims to offer support and inspiration to young local creatives.”

Interested parties are encouraged to register for the free event on the Bendigo Venues & Events website where they will also go into the draw to win a door prize.