Young Craft Citizens
A collective of 16-30 year olds interested in shaping the future of craft, design and making in the UK
We know it can be difficult to get started in a creative career. Young Craft Citizens works with young people to create alternative pathways into the craft and creative sectors. We build young people’s creative, professional and leadership skills, particularly investing in those impacted by racism, classism, ableism and the intersection of these forms of discrimination.
Black History Month workshop. Photo: Jessica Ross TOAST mending workshop
“Young Craft Citizens are a community of creatives discovering diverse ways of making, exploring sustainable and inclusive craft.”
- YCC group statement
What does Young Craft Citizens offer?
Regular meet-ups
Meet other young creatives, build creative and career skills and gain insight into the creative sector. Recent meet-ups have included craft workshops, gallery visits, guided tours of exhibitions, talks and networking events.
Paid placements
We offer paid work placements paid at London Living Wage. Placements offer the opportunity to work with Crafts Council and our partners on a meaningful project, developing skills and building your CV.
Co-create with us
We support Young Craft Citizens to run their own events and activities; recently we've had consultation sessions; art therapy workshops; sustainable stitching workshops and more!
Have your voice heard
Our new Youth Advisory panel gives 6 young people the opportunity to work closely with Crafts Council to develop our work. Young Advisors receive leadership training and are paid to attend consultation meetings; they are also offered the opportunity to join Crafts Council’s board of trustees. Looking to join the next round? Sign up and stay tuned!
Lots more benefits!
Joining the Young Craft Citizens community connects you to our networks and partners We can offer bespoke support including advice on CVs, job applications and higher education routes to support your path into the craft industry.
Craft careers workshop. Photo: Melody Uyanga Ramsay. Workshop with Shaheen Ahmed
Is it for me?
- Anyone between the ages of 16 and 30 can register to join the Young Craft Citizens community. Once you’ve registered, you will be notified of all events and able to apply for any opportunities we have live. We operate a priority applicant scheme for some opportunities.
- There is no level of experience required—anyone with an interest in creativity and making is welcome.
- Currently our community is largely based in London, but some opportunities are national and we are working with partners to create more opportunities across the country—sign up to hear more!
Young Craft Citizens strives to be a space that is safe, welcoming and accessible to all. Please tell us about your access needs and if there’s anything we can do to support you to take part.
Is there something you’d like from us that you don’t see here? Get in touch to let us know.
How do I join?
If you are aged 16-30 years old, sign up here: Young Craft Citizens sign up form
Once added to our database, we will keep you in the loop of our events and opportunities via email.
Follow us on Instagram @Young.Craft.Citizens
Our supporters
Thank you TOAST for donating proceeds from their 2021 events programme to Young Craft Citizens.
