Looking back at Inside Track: Get Connected 2024—Building creative communities

Welcoming former Insights students to Creative Shift

UAL’s Creative Shift and Outreach teams came together to host the third annual Inside Track: Get Connected event, a powerful evening of inspiration, collaboration, and networking. Held at the cutting-edge offices of Snap Inc., this year’s event brought together students, graduates, staff, and key figures from the creative industries to celebrate the transformative power of building communities during and beyond university.

What is Creative Shift?

Creative Shift is a UAL initiative which acknowledges the barriers that exist for students from underrepresented backgrounds in higher education and in the creative industries.

What is the UAL Insights Programme?

UAL Insights is our outreach programme which offers young people access to our Colleges for creative activities and pre-university advice and guidance.

A Night of Inspiration

This year’s Inside Track: Get Connected event embodied the theme of community-building. Snap Inc. partnered with UAL to provide a vibrant, welcoming space where meaningful conversations flourished. From the outset, the evening was alive with energy and the promise of connection.

The event opened with heartfelt words from UAL graduates Davinia Clarke and Melissa Newbery Welcome, who shared their challenges as students and how Creative Shift supported them in breaking down barriers. Their stories resonated deeply with attendees, emphasising the value of forging strong communities while navigating university life and the creative industries.

Expert Advice from Industry Leaders

The audience was further inspired by a panel of guest speakers. Host Reuben Christian, founder of Dream Rehab, set a warm and engaging tone for the evening, fostering lively and insightful discussions. Speakers included:

• Jordan Jarrett-Bryan, journalist and broadcaster, who shared his journey of resilience and determination.

• Adwoa Owusu-Darko, fashion entrepreneur and public speaker, who reflected on the importance of staying authentic while building a career.

• Valentina Culatti, Director Creative Strategy and Production at Snap, who spoke about the significance of cultivating genuine connections in the creative world.

Their insights on professional networking, managing challenges and varying commitments offered attendees invaluable guidance.

A Space for Connection

The second half of the event was dedicated to networking. Students from across UAL’s campuses connected with one another and mingled with industry guests, exchanging ideas and experiences. The atmosphere was buzzing with collaboration.

What’s Next?

Inside Track is more than just an event—it’s a bridge for students to connect, reflect, and envision their creative futures. For students who came through the UAL Insights programme, it’s a reminder that their journey doesn’t stop at university; it continues through the connections, opportunities, and communities they cultivate along the way.