Manchester City Council Department for Work & Pensions: Creative Digital SWAP
In partnership with DCMS, DWP, and ScreenSkills, SharpFutures hosted a two‑week immersive work experience at The Sharp Project for 20 creatives aged 18–25. Each participant left with tangible experience, confidence, and an interview for paid work through POD (People On Demand).
Overview
This programme is all about opening doors for young people who are currently out of work, giving them the skills, confidence and real-world experience to step into the digital industry. From day one, participants get stuck into the creative process: learning how to build a brand from scratch, design logos, shape visual identities and bring ideas to life. They also explore how to take those ideas out into the world, using social media to tell stories, grow audiences and create impact in a way that feels authentic and exciting.
What’s been most inspiring is seeing that learning turn into something real. One group went on to launch their own initiative, @publicitygirl, building a supportive and growing community for young female creatives. It’s a brilliant example of what happens when talent meets opportunity. Ideas turn into action, confidence turns into leadership, and young people create spaces not just for themselves, but for others too.
“I’ve met so many interesting people. I’ve learnt so much about different creative sectors and how they work”
– SWAP participant
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