Recently many of those involved in the Creativity Thirst programme, including participants, mentors and the industry professionals who facilitated the taster sessions, attended an event to celebrate the success of the first year of the programme.
Creativity Thirst is a programme run by the WEA in partnership with Belfast City Council and BSP funding designed to help those who are considering setting up their own business or gaining a little additional income in the Creative Industries develop the necessary skills.

Speaking at the event WEA Development Officer Carole Kane commented, “There has been a real mixture of students on the programme.  They have ranged in skill and experience.  Some were graduates, while others weren’t, but all were interested in testing the potential to make their businesses viable.

“The majority of the students have already taken their business ideas further to 'Start a Business' programmes and are setting up their own websites, etc for their businesses. After learning about what's required for self-employment, there are also a couple of others have decided that this is not the direction they want to go. Without a doubt, this experience has enabled the participants to weigh and test the options so that they are in a good place to make informed decisions about their professional development and the future.”

It is hoped that the programme will start again in late August and run until March 2009.  If you have skills in the Creative Industries at Level 2 or above and would like to know more about the programme contact Carole Kane on (028) 9032 9718 or email carole.kane@wea-ni.com.