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Future Edge 2025 | A Development Programme for Leaders in the Creative Industries

Cultural & Creative Industries Skillnet, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland and Coimisiún na Meán are excited to announce the next call for applicants for our flagship Future Edge programme.

Future Edge will support leaders across the cultural and creative sectors to better understand and implement best practices in Sustainability, Ethical AI & Data Protection and GEDI (Gender, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion).

This programme is supported by Coimisiún na Meán and by Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland through their Stakeholders Funding Scheme.

Overview

In 2023 and 2024 we ran two successful programmes for Future Edge. Over a series of in-person and online workshops we engaged with CEOs/Company Owners/Executives across the screen industries. Participants included Cartoon Saloon, Element Pictures, Fishamble Theatre, Black Shamrock, Screen Producers Ireland, StoryToys, Sow You Entertainment, Jam Media, Great Island Productions, Keeper Pictures (formerly Blinder Films), Danú Media, Metropolitan Films, Raising Films, Virgin Media, Wild Atlantic Pictures and Piranha Bar.

Lena Byrne ( Sow you Entertainment) “Participating in the Future Edge Leadership course was a game changer for me and my career will reap the benefits for years to come.   All three strands supported each other and offered a unified approach to leadership in business. Additionally, the hands-on real life examples provided by all the course leaders, ensured it was not just book learning but a more authentic, collaborative and immersive growth opportunity.

Elaine Reynolds (Black Shamrock – a Virtuos Studio) “Future Edge was a really well-organised and well thought out programme. The organisers and facilitators all did a really good job at delivering the course and also at creating a supportive environment among all the participants.  The structure of the course worked well in terms being focused on some key topics and spread out across both hybrid and in-person sessions. In particular the kick off session and the personality exercise was very useful. I took part in the culture and wellbeing and digital transformation strands. The sharing between participants was integral to the course and it was interesting to hear of common issues in different creative industries. I intended also taking part in the sustainability strand but I ended up not being able to make any of the days it was on. Overall I found it very useful and I am very happy it was supported by Screen Ireland. One suggestion for the next time it is run is to spend more time on the practical details of carrying out the various initiatives.”

Elda Pirozzi (StoryToys) “I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Organisational Culture and Wellbeing programme. As someone working in a related field, I found the content both engaging and relevant. The program allowed me to apply my knowledge in practical ways, which was incredibly rewarding. The emphasis on active participation created a dynamic learning environment, and I appreciated that everyone had the opportunity to contribute their insights. Additionally, connecting with industry peers provided a fantastic platform for cross-checking knowledge and sharing experiences. Overall, it was a valuable experience that left a positive impact.”

Mark Kenny (Great Island Productions) commented on the pilot programme as follows: “We just wanted to thank you sincerely for including us on the recent programme regarding Digital Transformation. The timing was perfect and we found the course content invaluable. The sessions were excellent in terms of instruction, reasoned discussions and practical application.”

Louise Richardson (Danú Media) said: “We’ve endeavoured to be more sustainable in recent years. Taking part in the Future Edge Sustainability strand really helped us to focus in on putting our ideas into actions and attainable goals. As well as helping us to see what our core values were and where the biggest impact could be made.”

Schedule

FUTURE EDGE 2025 is split into 3 different strands running January to Feb 2025:

  • Sustainability
    and/or
  • Ethical AI & Data Protection
    and/or
  • GEDI (Gender, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion)

Participants can apply to one, two or all three strands.

Facilitators: Native Events (Sustainability). Sana Khan (Ethical AI and Data Protection), Gorm Media (GEDI)

Structure:

  • The programme will be bookended by an in-person induction session and an in-person wrap session with participants from all 3 strands of the programme joining together to share best practices and key learnings.
  • Each individual strand will consist of 2 x full days in person.
  • While each strand has a core curriculum, additional sector-specific content devised in dialogue with the selected participants may be added.
  • Finally, there will be individual consultations available with the facilitators after the programme is complete.

    All workshops will take place at the Guinness Enterprise Centre, Taylor’s Lane, Dublin 8
  • Opening Induction Full day, everyone attends. Monday January 20th,
  • Sustainability Strand: 2 Full Day In-Person Sessions on Wednesday, January 22nd and Thursday, January 30th.
  • Ethical AI & Data Protection Strand: 2 Full Day In-Person Sessions on Thursday, February 6th and Wednesday, February 12th
  • GEDI (Gender, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Strand: 2 Full Day In-Person Sessions on Tuesday, February 11th and Monday, February 24th
  • 1/2 Day Wrap Session, everyone attends. Thursday February 27th, 9am to 1pm

Output: Each participant will leave the programme with a new or updated policy around Sustainability, AI Use & Data Protection, and Gender, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.

Cost: €250 per person, per strand. A reduced rate is available for those doing more than one strand.

Strand Profiles

In-Person Sessions at The GEC, on Wednesday, January 22nd and Thursday, January 30th.

Session 1: Unveiling the Sustainability Context for Decision-Makers
Format: In-person (Full day)

International and Local Landscape

  • Understanding of global sustainability pacts and how they influence the creative industries.
  • Impact of local Irish laws on sustainability practices.

Empowerment Through Knowledge

  • A walk-through of the sustainability impact areas relevant to creative practitioners, mapped against the SDGs.
  • Hands-on workshop to draft a Sustainability Policy and Action Plan for your organisations.

Session 2: Case Studies – Where Theory Meets Practice
Format: In-person (Full day)

Case Studies from Decision Makers Perspective 

  • Focus on how decision-makers in similar roles have successfully implemented sustainability initiatives.

Interactive Breakout Sessions

  • Small groups evaluate each case, dissecting decision-making processes, assessing outcomes, and identifying room for improvement.

Workshop to fine-tune the Sustainability Policy & Action plan from Day 1.

Follow-Up Consultation: Drop-in Clinic

Format: A digital drop-in clinic scheduled 1 month after the programme to ask questions and seek additional guidance. 

Helpful resources will be shared post-workshops with participants, including:

  • Sustainability toolkit
  • List of sustainable suppliers in Ireland
    Zero-waste design techniques, best practices for material reuse and recycling in production
  • Templates to help manage waste and inventory
  • Carbon emissions calculator tools

Trainer Profile:

Native Events was founded in 2017 to provide sustainable solutions to the events and cultural sector in Ireland. Gathering a dynamic team of driven, creative and impact oriented individuals, we began working with an evolving community of partners including: events, festivals, and cultural organisations; as well as with the wider network of industry suppliers to ensure a system-wide transition to sustainability and regeneration. We have pioneered circular festivals and events in Ireland, becoming a co-signatory with Body & Soul Festival to the Green Deal for Circular Festivals at Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) in 2019. We have expanded our work through climate literacy workshops, actionable climate guides creation, and advisory and development services for climate policy. Native Events holds both the practical experience in producing sustainable events, and the systems-thinking perspective needed to ensure these events have a positive impact in enabling the 

socio-cultural transformation needed to address the climate crisis.
Over the past four years, Native Events has developed and facilitated numerous workshops, educational talks, and courses on sustainability in the Creative and Cultural sector in Ireland. We share not only our own hands-on learning, but also have undertaken training with the Ellen McArthur Foundation, H3 University, The Regenesis Institute and Common Purpose to share tools and methodologies for understanding and reporting on environmental impact and to facilitate transformational change. 

Our vision

We see the future of Ireland’s cultural sector and creative industries as restorative and regenerative. 

At Native, we believe that arts practices, events and cultural activities have the capacity to ignite the imagination of society. Transitioning the sector to a more sustainable, just and circular model is the pathway towards a more balanced way of being, thriving inside planetary boundaries.

Our backgrounds in horticulture, permaculture, ecology and the three horizons have trained us as holistic systems-thinkers, allowing us to work with a unique perspective on the world. We are advocates of adaptive resilience – an approach that looks at the systemic memory, the current cultural viewpoints, and co-producing transformative pathways to resilience and regeneration with every organisation we work with.

ETHICAL AI & DATA PROTECTION STRAND

In-person sessions at The GEC on Thursday, February 6th and Wednesday, February 12th

Facilitator: Sana Khan

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its impact on various sectors, including the creative industries, becomes increasingly significant. This workshop is designed to equip participants with the practical knowledge and skills necessary to harness AI effectively while navigating the complexities of legal and regulatory frameworks. The end goal is to enable participants to develop a comprehensive AI policy tailored to their unique creative endeavours. 

Day 1: Foundations of AI in Creative Industries 

Morning Session: 

  • Introduction to AI Developments: Overview of the latest trends in AI technology and their implications for creative sectors. 
  • Legal and Regulatory Developments: Understanding the legal landscape surrounding AI and its application in creative industries. 
  • Overview of IP and Data Concerns: Exploring intellectual property (IP) issues and data privacy challenges associated with using AI in creative processes. 

Afternoon Session: 

  • Risks of Using AI in the Creative Space: Identifying potential pitfalls, including bias in AI algorithms, copyright infringement, and ethical considerations in AI-generated content. 
  • Practical Application of AI: Insights on how to integrate AI tools into everyday practices, enhancing productivity and creativity. 
  • Interactive Q&A: Participants engage in a discussion to share their thoughts and challenges, paving the way for policy development. 
  • Drafting a Policy Outline: Collaboratively outline the key components of an effective AI policy and procedure statement. 

Homework Assignment: 

Participants will draft their individual AI policies, reflecting on their specific creative interests and work environments. 

Day 2: Refinement and Finalisation of AI Policies

Morning Session: 

  • Review of Draft Policies: Participants present their drafts for peer review, focusing on clarity, relevance, and comprehensiveness. 
  • Workshop on Best Practices: Explore existing successful AI policies from the creative industry as case studies. 

Afternoon Session: 

  • Fine-Tuning Policies: Group discussions to refine individual policies based on feedback, ensuring they are actionable and aligned with industry standards. 
  • Finalisation and Implementation Strategies: Prepare participants to roll out their policies within their organisations effectively. 

Learning Outcomes 

By the end of this workshop, participants will: 

  • Understand key AI developments and their relevance to the creative industries. 
  • Be familiar with legal and regulatory considerations when implementing AI. 
  • Identify IP and data concerns related to AI use in their work. 
  • Recognise the risks associated with AI in creative processes. 
  • Develop a comprehensive and tailored AI policy and procedure statement. 
  • Gain confidence in applying AI tools in their creative processes. 

Conclusion 

This workshop will empower professionals in the creative industries to navigate the AI landscape effectively, ensuring they leverage technological advancements while adhering to necessary guidelines. Participants will leave with a practical and personalised AI policy ready to implement, making it a valuable investment in their future. 

Trainer Profile:

Sana Khan is a multidisciplinary expert in law, technology and governance. Her roles have required extensive understanding of data which includes AI and information/cybersecurity. Sana has helped establish and lead various compliance programs in areas such as privacy, governance, and anti-financial crime across various sectors including technology, finance, and creative sectors. Her strong background in AI ethics and compliance allows her to provide valuable insights into the implications of AI technology on business operations and innovation. Sana has successfully led numerous workshops and training sessions aimed at empowering professionals to adopt data responsibly and effectively. You can view her professional journey on LinkedIn

GEDI STRAND

In-person sessions at The GEC on Tuesday, February 11th and Monday, February 24th

Facilitator: Gorm Media

The proposed programme will focus on fostering inclusive leadership and cultural competence to help leaders in the creative sector navigate complex issues around gender equality, diversity, and inclusion. 

Day 1: Foundations of GEDI in the Media Sector

Session 1: Introduction to GEDI in the Media Industry

  • Overview of GEDI concepts and their significance in media.
  • Current challenges: Representation, inclusion, and equity in media
  • organisations.

Session 2: GEDI Legislation and Policy Considerations in the Media Sector

  • Overview of national and international legal frameworks.
  • Key policies and industry standards that promote GEDI.

Session 3: Practical Applications of GEDI in Media Production

  • Understanding, Identifying and reducing unconscious bias
  • Case studies on media projects that have successfully integrated GEDI,

Day 2: Applications and Action Planning

Session 1: Sectoral Strategies for GEDI Implementation

  • Strategic approaches to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in media 
  • How to align GEDI with organisational mission and values.

Session 2: GEDI is Culture Management

  • Embedding GEDI in organisational culture.
  • Leadership’s role in driving diversity and inclusion.

Session 3: Policy Development Workshopping

  • Developing organisational policies for GEDI.
  • Monitoring and Measuring GEDI Success

Trainer Profile:

GORM is an intercultural consultancy and award-winning social enterprise specialising in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Our team of Social and Cultural Psychologists (MSc. and PhD levels) has over 30 years of combined experience in Intergroup Relations, Cultural Diversity, and Culture Management. For the GEDI: Future Edge Programme, GORM is uniquely positioned to design and deliver a high-impact training programme tailored to the needs of the creative sector. Our approach includes a comprehensive review of relevant materials, stakeholder engagement, strategic event planning, expert facilitation, and post-event consultations. This will empower participants to develop effective GEDI policies and foster inclusive work environments.

Participant Profile

This programme is designed for individuals in leadership/management/HOD/Supervisor roles with a minimum of 2 years’ experience working in a company/organisation or as a freelancer in the creative industries. An applicant can apply for one, two or three strands.

The nature of the freelancer or organisation/company’s business should include, but is not limited to: Animation, Visual Effects, Games, Film, TV, Documentary, Post-Production, Immersive Technologies, AR/VR, Virtual Production, Digital Media, Entertainment Events, Music, Theatre and Visual Arts.

The programme is also open to applications from individuals who work with representative bodies, stakeholder organisations, guilds, and broadcasters.

Applications

DEADLINE TO APPLY: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

If you wish to participate in multiple strands, we can offer this at a reduced cost. Please contact us directly at seansmith@furthr.ie. Otherwise, please apply below.

FUTURE EDGE 2025

FREE
MEMBER PRICING

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