Press Release: ‘Portfolio’ from Colours of Redbridge – New programme launches to help young people in Redbridge break into the creative industries

New programme launches to help young people in Redbridge break into the creative industries

Young people aged 16–25 in Redbridge are being invited to apply for Portfolio, a free multi-week creative development programme launching this summer. Designed for emerging creatives, the programme helps participants build practical skills in digital audio and visual arts while creating a body of work they can use to access further education, employment and creative opportunities.

Shaped by the Colours of Redbridge Future Producers, Portfolio blends masterclasses, hands-on workshops and mentoring. Participants will work alongside creative professionals while developing projects that reflect their ideas, interests and ambitions.

The programme will culminate in a public showcase in August at East Bank in Stratford, home to organisations including BBC Music and V&A East. Participants will present their work to leading figures from across the creative sector, as well as friends and family — offering a platform to celebrate achievements, share ideas and make new connections.

By the end of the programme, participants will have developed practical creative skills, produced original work that demonstrates their abilities, and built meaningful connections with mentors and peers. They will leave with portfolios they can confidently share with employers, colleges and creative organisations.

The programme is supported by rapper LESiA (Rap Game UK) and Mawaan Rizwan (BAFTA-winning actor and comedian known for Juice and Taskmaster).

“This programme is a major moment for Redbridge. It gives young creatives the chance to build their portfolios, gain exposure and learn directly from professionals who know the industry inside out. Seeing local talent get these kinds of opportunities is fantastic — I wish there was something like this when I was growing up in the area!”

— Mawaan Rizwan, Portfolio Ambassador

“Portfolio is about opening doors for young people in Redbridge who may not otherwise have access to creative pathways. This programme gives them the space, skills and confidence to explore their ideas, work with industry professionals and build something they can be genuinely proud of. We’re excited to see the talent that emerges this summer.”

— LESiA, Portfolio Ambassador

The programme will run throughout July, with the showcase taking place in late August. Full scheduling details will be confirmed closer to the start date, and applicants will need to commit to attending all sessions.

Applications are now open — don’t miss this opportunity to develop your creative skills and connect with the industry.
Apply at: www.colours.red/whats-on

Applications close Monday 1 June at 10am. The process takes approximately 30–45 minutes. For more information visit www.colours.red/whats-on or email hello@colours.red.

Portfolio is supported by A New Direction and Foundation for Future London.

Colours of Redbridge is a programme of community-led arts and culture in the borough of Redbridge. It is part of Creative People and Places (CPP), a national programme from Arts Council England, where local people decide what culture happens in their area.

The programme supports people who live, work or study in Redbridge develop their own creative and cultural projects for everyone to enjoy.

As well as Arts Council England, the programme is supported by the following local organisations: Ekota Academy; Friends of Loxford; Muslimah Sports Association; SPACE Studios; Community Action Redbridge; Ilford Business Improvement District; Vision Redbridge Culture and Leisure; and Age UK.

Pete Nichols, Programme Director for Colours of Redbridge

pete@colours.red