Free E-Learning and Expert Mentoring for Thurrock Creatives

For the first time, the Re:Create programme is running in Essex as we support Creative Estuary in their mission to forge a future founded on creative energy and innovation along the length of the Thames. Four creative businesses in Thurrock have been awarded the Thurrock Creative Enterprise Grant. This forms part of the Thurrock Creative Infrastructure Programme, a partnership between Creative Estuary and Thurrock Council which aims to strengthen the local creative sector.

The four successful Thurrock-based businesses will receive personalised one-to-one mentoring from industry experts through our Re:Create programme, tailored to help them build sustainable growth and strengthen their creative enterprises.

As part of the programme, creative businesses in Thurrock can access our bespoke Re:Create Business Skills E-learning course completely free of charge. The course offers a range of essential skills delivered through high-quality, on-demand videos and resources.

Creatives based in the participating Re:Create locations (Thurrock, and the London boroughs of Richmond, Westminster, and Wandsworth) are eligible for a 100% discount. Anyone based outside of these locations can access the course at 185 + VAT. Sign up now to unlock your access.

Meet the grant recipients:

• Afu Namb Ltd – Grace runs a fashion atelier rooted in community, culture, and circularity, blending contemporary design with African heritage to create bespoke pieces that foster cross-cultural connection.
• Film Thurrock – Film Thurrock is a film and arts organisation based in Thurrock, dedicated to enriching the local and wider Essex community through screenings, festivals, workshops, and exhibitions.
• Lights Camera Action CIC – Lights Camera Action CIC is a community-led social enterprise in Thurrock that empowers underrepresented young people through media, photography, and creative skills training.
• U-Turnships CIC – U-turnships CIC empowers disadvantaged youth excluded from mainstream education through creative mentoring, physical activity, and wellbeing support. They offer work experience via community partnerships and new music, hair, and beauty studios. Their expanded three-day Afro Food Festival showcases Thurrock’s culture and young talent with a film festival, youth party, and family day.

Images (left to right): Courtesy of Film Thurrock, courtesy of Lights Camera action CIC, courtesy of U-Turnships CIC, photo credit Mark Massey

Sarah Thirtle, Director of Strategic Development at Creative United said:

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Creative Estuary, bringing our Re:Create business support programme to As part of the programme, creative businesses in Thurrock. At Creative United, we believe artists and creative enterprises make valuable contributions to their local economies and communities. However, many struggle with precarious income or experience barriers to opportunities. Bespoke mentoring and training, designed with creatives in mind, can unlock growth and impact. This is why we’re thrilled to be partnering with Creative Estuary, bringing our Re:Create business support programme to Thurrock.”

Caggy Kerlogue, Creative Assets & Place Manager at Creative Estuary, said:

“We’re very pleased to be working in partnership with Thurrock Council and Creative United to deliver these programmes. Creative Estuary’s learning, from our work on the ground is that there is a small but growing creative ecology in Thurrock. Our programmes will support the emerging and developing creative sector to really drive forward change and transformation in their communities. With our help, local creatives will attain the skills, tools and resources to build sustainable business platforms, strengthen creative career pathways for emerging talent, and build on the legacy of Thurrock’s existing creative infrastructure. Our Enterprise awardees exemplify the vast potential within this local sector; by empowering them to pursue their business ambitions, we help shape a future for creative leadership in Thurrock that truly reflects the diversity of its communities.”

Images from past Re:Create networking events