Manganaro discusses the networking event held in May 2025

As an emerging creative in my final year of university, who had already made significant steps in progressing my professional career, it became clear to me that many of my peers were struggling to make the necessary connections to initiate their creative careers; but they are not to blame. Entering the grass roots creative scene, you need someone to show you where to go, sign post you to the opportunities. I remember when I was seeking ways to build my skills and credits as a creative, it took for friends telling me about various events and organisations to be able to take those first steps.

So many of my peers, friends, and university mates are filled with creative talent, but they needed guidance to get them going and know the who, what & where will get them there. With the help of Rebecca di Corpo who is at the helm of humanities for… and Charlotte Godfrey, the studio manager of Emerge we created a networking event for emerging creatives to get their foot in the door.

This networking event was specifically tailored towards Bath Spa creative students in their final years of study and recent alumni who are still in the process of carving their paths. We catered it to all creative sectors that are represented in Bath, such as performance, visual arts, publishing, local festivals, freelancers, and artist’s residencies. Many of the stall holders held industry wisdom and connections, as well as opportunities for emerging creatives. The welcoming atmosphere of Boston Tea Party, Alfred Street helped attendees to feel at ease, by comparison to other networking events which can often feel overly formal.

Also at the evening, we offered free hot drinks and cake to the first dozen though the door, a quiet area in case anyone was overwhelmed, and photographer Ashley Cerrino provided free headshots for attendees, a necessity for any emerging creatives’ portfolio. The key thing we wanted attendees to leave feeling was that they had an awareness of Bath’s thriving creative scene and didn’t feel obliged to relocate to nearby Bristol for creative opportunities. This event in a way acted as a toolkit to begin a creative career.

We opened the doors to a busy and bustling crowd, eager to come in. Speaking to the stall holders, many attendees were interested in learning about the intricacies surrounding freelance life, what they need to do and what they should expect. It was exciting to introduce individuals to the exciting opportunities available across the city.

The event achieved exactly what it needed to, and people left asking when the next one is. There is a demand for more.

Immediately following the event, we were having conversations about the next one. May proved to be excellent timing, as final year students are figuring out what’s next after university. However, October could also be an opportune moment as students prepare for placement years. For now, we are excited to have provided opportunities and support for the emerging creatives of Bath.