The First Coastal Catalyst Knowledge Exchange

In 23 April, we hosted the very first Coastal Catalyst Knowledge Exchange - a space to bring together educators, creatives, youth voice, creative organisations and employers, all united by one goal:

Unlocking creative futures for young people along the Sussex coast.

It was a powerful hour of insight, challenge and connection - designed to spark new ideas and drive shared action. And it did just that.

Big questions. Bold ideas. Shared ambition.

We were thrilled to be joined by an inspiring panel of changemakers:

• Kaia Allen-Bevan, Founder of Youth The Gap (Facilitator)
• Anthony Gray, Head of Talent at Southbank Centre
• Samantha Hornsby, Co-founder of The ERIC App
• Tom Kenyon, Head of Collective Impact at RSA

Together, they shared fresh perspectives on what it really takes to build inclusive, sustainable creative pathways - and the realities young people face when trying to find and follow them.

Top Takeaways from the Session 

• Collaboration multiplies impact
  We’re stronger when educators, employers, youth workers and creatives join forces. Together, we can open more doors—and keep them open.
• Young people need opportunities that build the full skillset
  Confidence, communication and creativity matter just as much as technical, digital or industry-specific skills. The best opportunities nurture it all – hard skills and soft skills.
• Knowledge is power — especially when it’s shared
  From understanding creative career routes to knowing where to find them, information gaps hold people back. The more we share, the more we empower.

Every voice matters

Whether you spoke, listened, shared ideas in the chat or simply showed up with curiosity -thank you. Events like this are a reminder that change is possible when we build it together.

If you missed this session, make sure to join our next Knowledge Exchange Session: