Our Artist & Activist leadership development retreat is a transformational experience, designed to develop you personally and professionally. We believe in the everyday practice of leadership from self leadership through to the mass organising of movements and people. 

Navigating the world against a backdrop of racial and social injustice, we see you. We understand how important it is to be free to share, create and learn from each other in a purposeful space surrounded by an intergenerational community of like-minded people.

Why Art and Activism

We recognise that art, in all its forms, has always been a tool for resistance - challenging and changing the world, and that activists, campaigners and organisers combine the arts to fuel their movements. We also recognise that art brings joy, and joy is a form of resistance. Central to values that drive the work of Black Girl Convention is our commitment to the arts and activism

What will I gain from attending?

• Develop your leadership skills eg. authentic leadership, emotional intelligence, vision setting, coaching skills, decision making, powering people, staying motivated and practising wellbeing.

• Connect with and learn from inspiring creative leaders 

• Build community with your peers

• Grow your knowledge and understanding of yourself

• Increase self confidence

• Have an adventure, in a beautiful location!

What will the retreat involve? 

The programme will include workshops, inspiring speakers, small group talks, pairs work, individual reflection time, creative wellbeing and some free time. 

There is an emphasis on active engagement and participation - this is a space for sharing, learning and growth.

Sessions will be facilitated by experienced coaches and leadership development specialists Dr Mena Fombo and Bobbi O’gilvie, with guest speakers.

Applications are now closed.

 Key Dates 2021

• Closing date for applications deadline Friday 30th July, midday 

• Stage two applicants will be invited to join a 15 mins video call during the w/b 2nd August

• Successful applicants will be notified by Thursday 12th August

• The Retreat Sunday 12th-Tuesday 14th September 2021 

• Post Retreat Video call meet up: 4th November 2021

Where is the retreat taking place?

The residential takes place on the outskirts of Bristol in a beautiful, quiet, rural location. Full details will be shared with successful applicants.

Accommodation

Rooms are allocated on a single occupancy basis. 

What will it cost me? 

Taking part in the programme is FREE to you, thanks to support from Dove. 

Please note that you may be charged if selected and you withdraw within 72hrs of the programme start, leaving us unable to fill your place.

Are travel costs covered?

Travel to and from the retreat is NOT included. However group transport from central Bristol can be arranged for a small fee approx £10-12.

There is free onsite parking, bikes can be locked securely and there are some public transport links.

Who should apply?

• Those creating art inspiring themes of representation, resistance, protest or raising awareness 

• Those who see themselves as organisers, campaigners, activists and changemakers 

• Those who enjoy learning in groups or with others

• Those who are open minded, and interested in developing and applying their leadership skills post retreat

How do we define art?

Creativity, music, podcasts, radio, illustration, photography, dance, theatre, performing arts, painting, sculpture, laser printing, graphics, design, animation, film, poetry, spoken word, writing - you get the jist.

How do we define activist?

We’d love for you to tell us about yourself in you application, but some general definitions are below;

• a person who campaigns to bring about political or social change

• a person who is committed to a cause and acts to bring about positive change

• a person who is a changemaker 

Eligibility

The programme is open to women and non binary people of African & Caribbean Heritage aged 18+ based across the UK.

You must be able to attend the full retreat.
This is a positive action programme in line with the Equalities Act 2010

Access and Inclusion

• The venue is wheelchair accessible - please get in touch and we will be happy to send you the spec directly from the venue provider.

• If you need to bring an interpreter or translator with you, we would be happy to cover their accommodation and meals - please get in touch we are happy to discuss options.

• If you need to bring a personal support assistant - we would be happy to cover their accommodation and meals - please get in touch we are happy to discuss options.

• There are plenty of quiet spaces at the venue if you need to take some time out.

• There is also an option on the application form for you to tell us about additional needs that you need our support with.

What about covid

This is a covid secure venue. Full details regarding the most up to date covid protocols will be issued to successful applicants prior to the retreat.

If you would like to know more before applying please email blackgirlcon@gmail.com using the subject: Artist & Activist Retreat. Please note our team work p/t, 9-5pm - so please allow reasonable response times.