GENERATOR SEEK YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS AND MUSICIANS FOR NEW YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD

Generator, based in Newcastle, is a support agency for the music, tech and digital sectors in the North East. Generator’s programmes include music support strand Tipping Point, which sees fully-funded masterclasses and residencies for emerging musicians, and Digital Union, a membership body for creative digital and tech businesses.  

The organisation is looking for eight 18-25 year olds to help form their new Youth Advisory Board. GYAB (Generator Youth Advisory Board) will represent an interest in the work they do as an organisation, help to influence and shape the future of Generator as they head into their 30th year, and ensure that the work they do is of highest quality and relevant for the audiences they work with.  

They are looking for individuals who want to make a difference to the creative industries in the North East and have their voices heard. 

As Generator’s programmes are aimed at young and new artists, practitioners, or businesses, the organisation felt that they needed a representative board of those who they support. This not only brings a fresh new perspective but also tackles any assumptions about the demographic and gives young people an incredible developmental opportunity that reflects Generator’s support of emerging talent. 

Hannah Matterson, who was appointed as CEO of Generator earlier this year, commented, “It’s really important to us as an organisation who aim to foster and nurture new talent, across the digital sector and music industry in the North East, that we are listening to our audiences and enabling changes to be made to our practice where they are needed.  

It is an excellent opportunity for young people to challenge us as leaders, to have the voices heard and acted upon, and for us to support the development of the new leaders of tomorrow.” 

Stuart Birkett, Chair of Generator’s Board of Directors, said, “Everyone at Generator knows how important it is to have a diverse range of voices and opinions helping guide the organisation’s future.  

We are all delighted with this brilliant new initiative that formalises the up-to-now significant, but informal, input of young voices.  

We look forward to welcoming the members of the Youth Advisory Board and to hearing and acting on their ideas.” 

Each member of GYAB will be appointed for 1-3 years, with the view of up to 2 members joining the Generator Board after their first year.  

Young people interested in applying for a position should submit a 1 page letter, a 2 minute video or any other creative format they wish as an application to mail@generator.org.uk, stating why they want to be part of the Generator YAB, what they would like to do as part of it and what skills and qualities they have which would make them a good candidate.   

These applications will then be assessed by the Generator team and CEO.   

 As and when young people are identified as candidates for Generator’s Board, they will have a short interview with the CEO and some of the trustees. The places for young people on Generator’s board will be time-limited to a maximum of 2 years, enabling the board to always be adapting and relevant to current practices.   

Deadline for applications is Monday 7th September at 12pm midday.