Creative mentoring platform looks to increase impact with inaugural fundraiser

For most, getting into the creative industries isn’t an easy task, even if you have the right qualifications on paper. Whether it's a financial barrier, lack of representation, or just the fact that it's highly competitive, it can sometimes feel impossible to jump that first hurdle and land a decent paying job, internship or freelance contract.

In 2020, not-for-profit creative community and mentoring platform The Arena set up in a bid to change this by arming aspiring creatives with the tools, inspiration and confidence they need to kickstart a creative career. The platform hosts bi-annual virtual mentoring programmes and nationwide speed mentoring events in partnership with world-renowned creative agencies and digital content, sharing everything they wish they’d known sooner.

Freelance brand designer Dom Edwards and marketing manager/musician Lauren Archer run The Arena alongside their own creative careers. Using their years of experience in the industry and passion for levelling the playing field, they’re trying to bring about lasting and meaningful change for emerging creatives.

The idea is that people who come through their programme will eventually “lift as they climb” and pay it forward, essentially holding the door open for the next generation of talent once they’ve made a name for themselves.

For the past four years, Edwards and Archer have self-funded The Arena, providing mentorship for over 400 emerging creatives across the UK at no cost to the mentees or mentors. But now, as they look to develop the platform and take the community to the next level, they have launched their inaugural The Lucky Dip Print Fundraiser.

Every donor is guaranteed to get a mystery print for just £10 a ‘Dip’, with A4 to A2 prints up for grabs. Over 150 prints have been generously donated by 13 members of the creative community - many of whom have been mentors or mentees through The Arena - including Gill Sans, Inma Hortas, Jess Bright, Vini Vieira, and Yusra Na'im.

Na’im describes being part of the fundraiser as “a full-circle moment”, as she came through The Arena’s mentor programme. She says: “I first discovered The Arena at a time in my career when I felt ready to chase my dreams as an illustrator, yet I was feeling pretty stuck (and intimidated!) on how exactly to do it.

“Growing up without knowing anyone in the creative industry meant everything I’d done had to come from my own passion and research, but doing it alone is tough.”

As well as giving her an extra boost of support and offering mentorship, community, and guidance, Na’im says that it also reassured her that she was on the right track.

“Now, I’m thrilled to give back and donate some of my prints alongside other former mentees and mentors who also want to help this wonderful community thrive and keep The Arena doing what they do best,” she adds.

From limited runs to crowd favourites, these prints come directly from the creatives' archives, with no reprints allowed! The Arena took this approach to breathe new life into prints that might have otherwise gone to waste and also give art and design enthusiasts the chance to own rare, one-of-a-kind pieces. What’s not to like?

The Arena’s fundraising target is £1000, which will go towards growing the speed mentoring concept for emerging designers and illustrators across the UK. As we gear up for the season of giving, why not consider gifting your print to a friend or family member if it's not to your taste?

Whether it's a creative treat for yourself or for someone else, remember that the prints don’t just look good, they do good. Head to The Arena website and get your donations in by Friday 22nd November.