Community Connectors chosen for Coventry City of Culture
Eight Coventry residents have been chosen for a new programme.
The Community Connectors programme will see Boyanka Bobeva, Emilie Jones, Kelly Walsh, Kevin Conway, Kieran Joseph, Mel Gregory, Priya Gondalia and Theo Ioannou, each work towards creating their own artistic community event.
The group will benefit from specialist training, mentoring and networking, delivered by 64 Million Artists, which will help them develop their ideas and skills.
Some of the ideas that the group want to develop include celebrating stories from local people, connecting through humour, and creating a mural in Foleshill that reflects its diverse community and features the different languages spoken in the area.
The Connectors have shared their hopes that their involvement in the programme will help ‘put Coventry on the map’, ‘connect people’ and ‘provide recognition for their local area’.
Chris Rolls, from 64 Million Artists, said: “The passion and commitment of the people of Coventry is inspiring and this programme is aimed at helping Community Connectors activate their creativity and skills through shows, events and activities which will inspire and engage people across the city.”
Theo Ioannou was one of the chosen Community Connectors. She'll be working with refugee women across the city, creating theatre workshops to develop their English and tell their stories.
She also says it'll be a great opportunity for "grass roots organisations to exist beyond the City of Culture event and encourage more people to take part in the arts.
"Many artists have to go to Birmingham for venues, so City of Culture will be important for the creativity already in the city."
Chenine Bhathena, Creative Director of Coventry City of Culture Trust, said: “We always wanted our City of Culture programme to take place in every neighbourhood of the city, created with, by and for local citizens. The stories and cultures of Coventry need to come from our grassroots communities, so we’re thrilled to be able to work with and support our new team of Community Connectors.
“They already have some fantastic ideas to develop and will be able to share lots of different perspectives on their experiences of living in Coventry and their hopes for our city’s future.
“Everyone can be creative. The Connectors will power up our people, help everyone to get creative and make sure that everyone can feel part of this amazing year, as Coventry moves.”
People can find more information about the Community Connectors programme, including a video showcasing Connectors themselves on the Coventry City of Culture website.