Freelance Exchange Peer Networking Programme 

Empowering emerging creative freelancers in East London

The Freelance Exchange Peer Networking Programme is a carefully curated professional development journey designed to strengthen and uplift the next generation of freelance creative talent. Over the course of three months, we’ll bring together 15 emerging freelancers from across East London’s vibrant creative community to build confidence, grow networks, and develop the tools needed to thrive in today’s freelance landscape.

This new strand of the Freelance Exchange centres on four core pillars:

  • Resilience
  • Wellbeing
  • Financial confidence
  • Peer support

Participants will engage in a dynamic mix of targeted masterclasses, peer-led sessions, and monthly enrichment meetups—all designed to support their growth both professionally and personally.

This is a part-time programme operating from 5-8pm every 2nd Wednesday of the month.

  • Workshops

    Dates of Delivery – 1st October – 10th December

  • What to expect

    🧠 Masterclasses & Skill-Building Workshops
    Practical, interactive sessions covering essential skills for navigating freelance life, from managing irregular income and negotiating rates, to building a sustainable practice rooted in care and community.

    💬 Peer Networking & Mutual Support
    Participants will connect regularly through facilitated peer exchanges, forming a supportive network of like-minded creatives who understand the highs and lows of freelance work.

    🌱 Wellbeing Sessions
    In partnership with OurPpls and Good Growth Hub, we’ll be holding space for monthly wellbeing check-ins designed and delivered by local organisations who specialise in supporting creative communities in East London.

    🧭 One-to-One Mentoring (Coming Soon)
    As the programme evolves, additional tailored support will be introduced in the form of one-to-one mentoring. This will offer deeper guidance and space for reflection, led by experienced creative professionals.

  • Who is it for?

    This programme is open to emerging freelance creatives who:

    • Live or work in East London
    • 18 – 30 years old
    • Are within the first few years of their freelance journey
    • Want to develop their networks, confidence and resilience
    • Are committed to showing up for themselves and their peers

    Whether you’re a designer, filmmaker, musician, photographer, visual artist or multi-disciplinary creative, this programme is about equipping you with what you need to navigate freelance life on your terms.

  • Programme Timeline

    Duration: October – December 2025

    • Monthly in-person meetups (evenings)
    • Bi-monthly freelancer meet-ups
    • Skill-building workshops
    • Wellbeing sessions
    • Optional enrichment activities and events across East London

    A detailed schedule will be shared with selected participants.

  • Status
    Recruiting participants
  • Dates

    October - December 2025

  • Eligibility

    18-30 year olds, living or working in East London

  • Number of Places

    N/A