Absolutely Cultured And British Council Launch New Bursaries

The British Council, in collaboration with Absolutely Cultured, is launching an international mobility bursary for Hull-based emerging cultural leaders.

The funding will see £12,500 distributed as individual bursaries of up to £1,000 which are available to enable an international opportunity that will support professional development for emerging cultural leaders working in arts, education and civil society (including third sector, charities and community-based organisations).

Funded opportunities may include attending conferences, workshops, networking events or short residencies overseas. Supporting the growth and development of local talent, these bursaries will enable successful applicants to expand and diversify their knowledge, experience and breadth of practice through learning from others operating in different environments or cultures. They will also provide a platform for building networks and relationships, helping to further strengthen Hull’s international connections.

Applicants should have 2-5 years’ experience of working in the cultural sector and have some experience of initiating and managing projects or people. The activity must take place between December 2019 and April 2020 and applications must make a clear case for the benefit the activity will have on the applicant’s professional development.

Lindsay Stockley, a Senior Producer at Absolutely Cultured, said: “We’re delighted to be working with The British Council on facilitating this bursary scheme which demonstrates a continued investment in Hull and our cultural sector. These bursaries are a fantastic opportunity for cultural leaders in the city to access international opportunities or develop their international networks which can be hugely beneficial for their development.” 

For more information about this opportunity, Absolutely Cultured will be hosting an information event on Tuesday 24 September, 5.30pm – 7.30pm at Humber St Gallery. At the event, attendees will hear from the British Council, Absolutely Cultured and have opportunities to ask questions about this bursary scheme. Tickets for this event are free and details are available on the jobs, tenders and opportunities page of the Absolutely Cultured website.

Applications must be completed by individuals and the applicant must be the person carrying out the activity. There is no requirement to be affiliated with an organisation in order to submit an application. Emerging leaders working with communities in Hull are particularly encouraged to apply.

The application must break down the full costs of the activity being undertaken and a reference from someone in the sector who they have worked with in the past who is happy to discuss their application, previous experience and professional development needs.

There are no geographical restrictions on travel and there is no requirement for the bursary to cover the total cost – it can be used to supplement or enhance existing plans. Applications are welcome from people carrying out any role with the arts and culture sector.

Successful applicants will be required to produce a short report (video, photographs, blogs welcome) after their visit.

Full details of the bursaries, including eligibility criteria and application details, can be found at www.absolutelycultured.co.uk.

To apply for this bursary, please send the completed application form to rebecca.wignall@britishcouncil.org by 5pm by Friday 18 October. Successful applicants will be notified w/c 28 October and we will aim to delivery bursary funds within six weeks or before travel.