Hello! I’m Freya, a dance artist from Manchester.
I completed the Future Leaders programme in 2015/16 which quickly opened up an inspiring world of new experiences and possibilities, despite being only 15 at the time. I had no experience of cultural dance and was so excited to learn some new styles. No sooner had I found a new love for all things Carnival, from the intricate movement style to seeing how all of the artforms involved come together and cross over throughout the process.
Upon finishing Future Leaders, I dived in to as many opportunities to get involved within the wider community as possible, from trying my hand at percussion to volunteering in the arts studio, and all the way to helping to produce a local community event in 2017. I am incredibly grateful for the experiences that I have had as a result of my learning on the course, and those that are yet to come! The best part about Future Leaders and Carnival for me is that the journey never finishes or ends, and could probably go on eternally, and I find this so exciting. The community is like no other, and something that I’ve found a passion for too. It’s taken me to several countries around the world to perform and develop my artistic practise and millions of miles out of what i thought was my comfort zone.
I now work full time for Global Grooves where I have the chance to grow myself as both an artist and professional in the arts sector. I am also an assistant project manager for two other music and dance projects working with people of all ages where I also get to share my love for dance and performing with them. Most recently, I joined the board of an arts venue as a trustee, and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to share my experience so far with them and be a part of the driving force of their mission.