developing the skills and self-confidence of young trustees

The Mighty Creatives first introduced the Board Academy programme in 2013, aiming to support and develop the skills and self-confidence of young trustees. Over a 6-month programme, young trustees aged 18-25 were supported through active and experiential learning to gain the confidence and skills to govern arts and cultural organisations.

The programme is comprised of 3 residentials, one to one sessions, an evaluation day and sessions tailored to each young trustee with various host organisations. The aim is to develop self-confidence and experience within young trustees, with the activities encouraging a hands-on approach and application of new knowledge.

The need for children and young people (CYP) to be able to engage with governing creative institutions is potentially an overlooked issue. However, by addressing this, not only do CYP gain vital confidence and experience, the institutions that provide for them can implement positive change at the top level of a business. These young people benefit from an increased involvement in decision-making, group discussions with senior colleagues and involvement in networking – while organisations benefit from the innovation and fresh perspective bought to the boardroom.

Feedback from participating young trustees highlight the benefits of the experience, with all reporting an increase in self confidence and knowledge of board activities. But, most importantly, a sense that their long-term outlook on governing had been permanently altered. This has been supported by senior members of board academy, who describe the progress made by the young trustees as incredible.