Creative Partnerships Conference 2025: Full Programme Announced!
Be United is thrilled to unveil the full programme for the Creative Partnerships Conference 2025, Scotland’s premier networking and professional development event for Black creatives. Taking place on Friday, 21st February 2025, at the Advanced Research Centre, University of Glasgow, this free, day-long event will bring together leading industry professionals, artists, and change-makers to share insights, foster collaboration, and celebrate Black creativity.
A Space for Growth, Collaboration & Inspiration
Curated to empower Black creatives at all career stages, the conference will feature a mix of thought-provoking talks, interactive workshops, and valuable networking opportunities. Attendees will gain practical tools for career advancement while nurturing their mental health and well-being—ensuring a holistic approach to professional development.
Be United Founder Emma Sithole shared:
“The 2025 event promises to be our biggest and most impactful yet. Whether you’re an artist looking to build connections or an industry stakeholder seeking collaboration, this is the room to be in. We’re excited to bring together leading Black voices to share their experiences and inspire the next generation of creatives.”
Be United Programme Coordinator Sharon Thomas shared her excitement:
“When programming events, I always ask myself: What kind of experiences do I wish I had access to but never did? This year’s Creative Partnerships Conference is a response to that very question. Our goal is for individuals to walk away feeling empowered, equipped with holistic and practical tools they can use to advance their careers.”
Keynote Conversation with Dr. Eunice Olumide MBE
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Eunice Olumide MBE as a Keynote Speaker at Creative Partnerships Conference 2025!
Born in Edinburgh and recognised as Scotland’s first Black supermodel, Eunice has graced global campaigns, top fashion weeks, and publications like ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. Beyond fashion, she is a V&A Design Champion, sustainability activist, and DEI consultant, working with Livia Firth, Dame Vivienne Westwood, and Emma Thompson.
Awarded an MBE for services to Broadcasting, Charity, and the Arts, she has curated 18+ exhibitions on sustainability, spoken at The House of Parliament, and created educational content for 20,000+ UK schools.
Speaking about the event, Dr. Olumide shared:
“I’m really looking forward to this event. Organisations like Be United are vital to the development and diversity of our community.”
Her conversation will provide attendees with valuable insights on creativity and driving meaningful change in the creative industries.
A Powerful Lineup of Workshops & Speakers
The conference features an exciting lineup of industry experts delivering engaging workshops across professional development, financial literacy, mental well-being, branding, and more. The speakers include:
- Emma Sithole – Be United Founder & Executive Director
- Collin Hills – Be United Creative Director
- Tynah Matembe – CEO, MoneyMatix
- Serena Piotto – Creative Producer
- Ashanti Harris – Artist & Choreographer
- Ellie Muniandy – Therapist & Anti-Oppression Trainer
- Natasha Iregbu – Mindfulness Coach
- Monika Navickaitė – Film Director & Cultural Communications Expert
With a mix of panel discussions, interactive workshops, and breakout sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to tailor their experience to their professional and creative needs.
Conference Schedule Highlights
🕙 10:00-10:30 – Doors Open & Coffee ☕
🕥 10:30-11:15 – Welcome & Industry Pitches 🎤
🕦 11:45-12:45 – Breakout Workshops (Funding, Branding, Mindfulness & More)
🕧 12:45-13:45 – Lunch & Networking 🍽️
🕜 13:45-14:40 – Workshops on Financial Literacy & Mental Wellbeing
🕕 16:00-17:00 – Closing Keynote Conversation with Dr. Eunice Olumide MBE
A Milestone Year for Be United
The Creative Partnerships Conference 2025 comes at an exciting time for Be United, following its inclusion in Creative Scotland’s Multi-Year Funded Organisations portfolio. This three-year funding cycle will allow the charity to expand its impact, providing more development opportunities for Black creatives and working towards the goal of supporting 500 Black professionals in the creative industries over the next five years.
Don’t Miss Out – Register Now!
🎟️ Tickets for the Creative Partnerships Conference 2025 are FREE, but spaces are limited! Secure your spot now by clicking here or the button below.
