In this industry, it’s all about who you know - but expanding your network and establishing the connections to take you further isn’t always easy. Enter SPARKED Connections, a new initiative co-founded by The Mill’s head of marketing Isabelle du Plessis, and freelance commercial producer Jenny Natelson.
SPARKED Connections is an inclusive networking community to help people in New York’s creative and media industries connect the dots and expand their professional circle beyond those they work with on a daily basis. The organisation dispenses with high fees that are often associated with creative club memberships, award-show tickets and conference attendance, and provides free opportunities for creative minds to connect in a physical space.
Champions of diversifying the industry, Isabelle and Jenny are strong believes that networking opportunities should be open to all, without the niche participation criteria that most networking groups within the creative industries currently hold. Their motto is ‘No fees, no barriers, no bullshit.’
“We are trying to bridge the gap between the communities that we’ve seen establish themselves in recent years across our industry” comments Isabelle. “I often see groups that are female-only, tech-only, producers-only – but these groups could greatly benefit from connecting with each other. I understand the need for female-driven groups within the industry to provide support to one-another, but I don’t think we can enforce true change and inclusion within the industry until we provide an open platform that involves everyone in the conversation.”
SPARKED Connections will be hosting regular free events across New York City throughout the year and providing opportunities for its members to digitally connect after each event.