NICOLA
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts)
Annual Review: 1st April 2022 to 31[st] March 2023
(New International Company of Live Arts)
ANNUAL REVIEW
2022-2023
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts) Vanston Community Centre Samuel Lewis Trust SW6 1BU Telephone: 020 7386 7179 Mobile: 079 7648 3977 E-mail: contact@nicolaarts.org A Company limited by guarantee, number 7871152 A registered Charity, number 1148529
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Board of Management
Michela Ferrara Chair Kevin Sylvester Treasurer Benijah Howell
Staff
All the staffs at NICOLA are volunteers and interns. Based on projects we have free-lances.
Volunteer Creative Director: Michela Ferrara
Volunteer Music Mentor:
Kevin Sylvester
Roxana Roksana Elzbiera Adamczyk
Mission Statement
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts) is a youth lead charity which promote positive interaction within and between youth communities through creative opportunities and projects, particularly in areas of high crime and low provision of extracurricular and arts activities.
Bank: Metro Bank
89-93 Putney High St SW15 1SR
London
Our Vision
To be recognised as a place of support and opportunity for young artists nationwide.
Our Mission
NICOLA offers free arts training and support for inner-city youths to promote confidence and social inclusion, to popularise the arts and to create opportunities for young people who don’t always have access to professional training.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Creative Director and Chair’s Report
I am delighted to report that the year 2022-2023, despite Brexit and COVID, was a year of solid performance at NICOLA.
Our main activity has continued to be training and development of young people in music, dance, arts and arts job skills, concentrating mainly in helping them to prepare plans in running and create Solo Trader or Company business, media communication and brand promotion. The quality of our services has remained high; helping young people to improve their lives, providing a supportive environment to allow them to develop their personalities, their talents, preparing and helping them to build their self confidence, to find suitable education and/or employment both in the artistic field and outside or to run their own business or Social Enterprise. Keeping their mind busy, on positive initiatives, has also helped them to recover from COVID restriction's crisis.
The support from the European Commission through the British Council and Ecorys has run through this year assuring us projects till summer 2023. Our relationship with Housing Associations, local Youth Clubs, Youth Hostels, The K&C Foundation, Chelsea Football Club Foundation and Volunteering Centres has increased as we supported each other through online interaction in those hard times. In addition, we have also received private donors funding supports and were offered a free POP UP shop in Embankment in April 2023; the local support was amazing, we received a great deal of donations, which enable us to set the shop in less than a week, creating an artist innovative shop where artisans can sell their creation while recycling and up-cycling is highly promoted. We believe that this is NICOLA future way to generate income to support artists and youth people.
At NICOLA centre we still have a fully equipped recording studio for the young people personal and professional growing/development, which we started to reuse it. Our weekly car-boot selling has helped to raise more funds to support the Charity. As always we put particular effort into working with young people with socio/economic obstacles who cannot afford professional training. We engage and facilitate learning in a non-formal way and prepare young people for life after their interaction with NICOLA. In order to achieve this, we make sure we work closely with our local community, youth clubs, Housing Associations and like-minded Organisations.
NICOLA engages young people aged between 13 to 25 and up to 30 years old through the Erasmus+ projects. Due to the fact that our young people plan and deliver the projects, it enable them to be in charge of those projects, give the chance to many of them to progress further education or employment, becoming mentors to other young people and/or start their own freelance work or Company.
We are very grateful to our young interns and volunteers for their dedication and commitment to NICOLA and are very happy that many of them gained paid jobs as result of practice and growing in confidence while at the Charity. Our strong relationship with Universities in London and Europe has enabled us to accommodate just graduated students giving them the chance to explore the professional work through a friendly environment. We still keep a creative connection between disadvantage youths from London and Leeds, with the endorsement of celebrity dancer "Sadie Flower"; we are still planning connection projects with the young people and we hope to receive financial support very soon.
In London, our young people continue to plan and apply for funding and always look at ways to improve and develop positive initiatives. They are meetings on a regular basis. Our work would not have been possible without the professionalism and dedication of our volunteers and free-lances.
Good working relationships and practices have been developed with the British Youth Council, Ecorys, Schools, Youth Clubs, Arts groups and Municipalities all around Europe. NICOLA through the Erasmus+ projects has also developed strong relation with likeminded Youth Organisations and Institutions around the globe. Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person, in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we also had many self-funded interns. Our members were 100% involved in the planning of the projects.
NICOLA is still very young, but we are looking at ways to improve our financial and structural methods and look at ways to grow bigger and better and serve further young people.
Special thanks will go to our Trustees who are investing their time to assure that NICOLA reaches the best practise possible.
Michela Ferrara (NICOLA Creative Director)
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Projects
Project: “Ministry of Arts” When: ONGOING (from March 2023)
Where: 30 – 32 Fleet Street
Funded by: Spring4 Description:
Ministry of Arts is an art/hub shop with a difference. Offering unique designs, up cycled clothing and painted clothing by a number of artists. We will also sell art, paintings, photos, arts and crafts to help talented artists make a living. You can come with your own clothing or accessories to be customised or you can buy ready made designs from the shop.
The art/hub shop aim is to combat the surplus stock sent to countries like Africa, having a negative impact on their textile industry.
The funding provided by the charity shop will help fund arts projects with disadvantaged young people in the UK. Future Aims of the charity shop is to also provide funding to set up social enterprises in Africa to help support designers in Africa.
Project: “Improve by Move” When: 2020 - 2022
Where: Lublin, Marseille, London.
Funded by: European Commission through Poland Erasmus+ Agency Description:
The main goal of this strategic partnership project is to develop an innovative support program for young people with the use of artistic influences and thus increase the level of psychosocial competences and selfacceptance. The project supports both youth workers and youth aged 13-18 from 3 culturally different countries: Poland (Through Sempre a Frente), UK (Through NICOLA) and France (Through ESSEVESSE). The aims of the project will be met through participation in dance and movement workshops and exchange of experiences with specialists from partner organisations.
We will also have a lovely coffee area, so come in, have a coffee and a browse of our collections.
https://www.facebook.com/marco.colombo.london/videos/10165179159390305
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: "Improve by MOVE" (Dance Workshops) When: 2021 - 2023
Where: London, Marseille, Lublin.
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
These dance workshops were part of the project "IMPROVE by MOVE" funded by the Erasmus+, between Poland through "Sempre a Frente", France through "eSSeVeSSe" and UK through NICOLA. The main goal of this strategic partnership project was to develop an innovative support program for youth with the use of artistic influences and thus increase the level of psychosocial competences and self-acceptance. The project supported both youth workers and youth aged 13-18 from 3 different countries.
Project: "SoundScape" x Okan: Episode I When: 7[th] April 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians.
Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week. First up: Okan Roll on April the 7th!
Soundscape radio
The aims of the project was met through participation in dance and movement workshops and exchange of experiences with specialists from partner organisations. This was a nine weeks dance workshops (Afrobeat - Dance Hall - Hip Hop) started from 21 March to the 23[rd] May 2022 (every Tuesday from 16:00 - 20:00).
https://www.facebook.com/NICOLA.Arts/videos/372704828208481
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “European Projects” When: 31.01.2022 – 30.06.2022 Where: Italy and UK Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The "Consorzio Percorsi", from South Italy, operates in a complex and problematic context working to promote Local Development, therefore their intend it is to promote and implement European cooperation as a "strategic dimension" for local development, becoming a point of reference on the territory. For this, it was necessary to create a new area within the organisation, which was called "European Cooperation", an information and a service centre, assisting business plans and introduting European fundings for start-ups and micro businesses. The "European Cooperation" project was a long journey and a complex path as the objectives were very ambitious; therefore to be achieved it was necessary to take "one step at a time", starting by building a solid foundation. The first step was realised in September/October 2019, by sending one expert on national and regional projects and one youth operator to acquire new skills in an expert NGO in London, focusing on:
Design methodology for European projects; Skills and knowledge related to the Erasmus+ program which it appeared to be consistent with a good part of the Consorzio Percorsi' s mission, as they are working with young people and young migrants; The second step took place in March/April/May 2022, by sending one expert and one youth operator to learn/improve implementation and management of European projects through active participation in funded projects;
Project: “SoundScape” x Blue Moon: Episode II” When: 15[th] April 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians.
Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week.
Sara created a beautiful feeling of harmony with her voice and various instruments and it was presented via the radio SoundScape.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “SoundScape” x Chelsea: Episode III When: 22[nd] April 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians. Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week.
On the day, Chelsea shared her experience with music in a very moving interview and played some of her original songs.
Project: “Soundscape x Chelsea: Episode III” When: 13[th] May 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians. Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week.
On the day, we shared an interview with Vincent as well as videos of his songs, full of energy and light.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “ACTual stART” When: 18 – 27 May 2022 Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
ACTual stART was a mix art project with three phases (Italy - Armenia - UK) between 6 countries (UK - Italy - Armenia - Ukraine - Spain - Hungary) with a theme of Human Right. - In the first phase (Italy) the participants created a photo exhibition, which made the project visible at local level while spreading on social media as well. This was our first phase!!! - In the second phase (Armenia) participants created stage performances, in a public place, which will include their message on the “issues in their communities” and ways to solve them. - In the third phase (UK) the participants devised a dance performances outdoor an indoor and make the final video presenting all the process. Between phases the youngsters carried out some local activities using the gained knowledge and experience which also spread the information about the project impact. This was the third phase!!!
Project: “Dance Expression (FLASH MOB)” When: 18 – 27 May 2022
Where: Trafalgar Square, London Funded by: Erasmus+
Description:
From 18[th] to 27[th] May 2022 we implemented the project ACTual stART with the aim of discussing and creating materials to help the Human Rights issues. Youth people from 6 countries (Armenia, Ukraine, UK, Italy, Hungary and Spain) came together to challenge those issues. On Sunday 22nd May in collaboration with "Speaker Box" we were in Trafalgar Square from 6PM, to DANCE - DANCE - DANCE and music performances. It was an AMAZING event!
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Digital Storytelling for Youth Work” When: 28[th] May to 5[th] June 2022 Where: Benevento, Italy Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
‘WHETHER FACT OR FICTION, HOW YOU DECIDE TO TELL YOUR STORY IS ALMOST AS IMPORTANT AS WHAT YOUR STORY IS.’ - PHILIP PULLMAN, AUTHOR.
The possibilities of digital technologies have turned everyone into a potential narrator, but digital storytelling is more than just telling a story. It is an inclusion tool engaging the community that can be used in different contexts to solve complex social issues. Digital storytelling helped civic organisations to give a human face to abstractions such as freedom, tolerance, solidarity, etc., to promote universal values and basic rights, to disseminate their performance and results more efficiently and, in so doing, to be a sustainable factor in the social dialogue.
Project: “Erasmus+ Program for young people and youth workers” When: 31[st] May 2022
Where: Ariano Irpino, Italy Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The "Consorzio Percorsi", from South Italy, operates in a complex and problematic context working to promote Local Development, therefore their intend it is to promote and implement European cooperation as a "strategic dimension" for local development, becoming a point of reference on the territory. Tuesday 31st May 2022 at 18.30 Percorsi introduced Erasmus+ Program for Young People and Youth Workers (learn about this program, how to participate, how to implement and all the opportunity given by the European Commission). This was the right event for anyone that wanted to learn or improve the variety of programs part of the Erasmus+.
"Digital Storytelling for Youth Work" was a training course that aimed to improve the quality of youth work by equipping youth workers with competencies on using digital storytelling in daily work for reaching out marginalised young people, promoting diversity, intercultural and interreligious dialogue, etc.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Film Connection APV”
When: 3[rd] May 2022
Where: Online
Funded by: Erasmus+
Description:
Online Advance Planning Visit for the project Film Connection. A project that saw young people from UK, Turkey and Italy working on creating a photo exhibition, short films and music to fight Human Right issues; this will take place in Italy, UK and Turkey.
Project: “Inclusion through Art When: 12[th] – 28[th] 2022
Where: Eskieshir, Turkey
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Newly arrived migrants in Turkey don't know their human rights, which is an obstacle to their involvement in society as citizens; young refugees can be integrated into society through the arts as a non-formal approach, with us functioning as mediators between civil rights and people: Based on previous experiences from prior Erasmus+ projects, there was a greater need to qualify the concepts as to how to use arts as a tool to better understand the mechanisms of radicalisation by engaging with and securing youth involvement pre-and post-workshop with the refugee and EU participants.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Film Connection” When: 19[th] – 28[th] June 2022 Where: Naples, Italy
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
FILM CONNECTION was an Erasmus+ youth exchange program, of the European Union, between UK, Italy and Turkey, that wanted to raise awareness about human rights issues using various performative art to stimulate transformative action and social change. During the week we created short films that mention the surreal and potentially harmful drift of the excessive use of technology in our daily life, by building a paradoxical and dystopian scenario of our society During the making of the movie production everyone had a specific role and we
encourage people to share their experiences and ideas in order to enhance everybody's values.
Project: “Improve by Move” When: 30[th] August – 3nd September 2022 Where: London, UK
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The main goal of this strategic partnership project was to develop an innovative support program for young people with the use of artistic influences and thus increase the level of psychosocial competences and self-acceptance. The project supported both youth workers and youth aged 13-18 from 3 culturally different countries: Poland (Through Sempre a Frente), UK (Through NICOLA) and France (Through Cie EssevessE). The aims of the project were met through participation in dance and movement workshops and exchange of experiences with specialists from partner organisations. This was the Evaluation Meeting, taking place in London, were we evaluated this AMAZING 2 years project and made solid plans for dissemination.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “B.E.T.T.E.R” When: 5[th] – 10[th] October 2022
Where: Benevento, Italy
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
This Training Course aimed at Youth Workers committed in everyday work with young people, social issues and relationships. The main objective was to develop the competences of youth workers in terms of empathy and sensitivity to foster better working dynamics and empower skills and self-referentiality. Expected participants in the project gained the experience and the interest in working with young people using communicative tools in social contexts, exploring empathy fields and managing the right key skills to develop a working sensitivity. The methodological approach of the project was focused on non-formal education, and the working methods included communication techniques, team building, simulations, debates, working groups, workshops, evaluation sessions and follow-up activities.
Project: “Craft for Human Rights”
When: 22[nd] November – 8[th] December 2022
Where: Eskieshir, Turkey Funded by: Erasmus+
Description:
Newly arrived migrants in Turkey don't know their human rights, which is an obstacle to their involvement in society as citizens; through the workshop, the young refugees were integrated into society through the arts as a non-formal approach, with us functioning as mediators between civil rights and people: Based on previous experiences from our prior Erasmus+ projects, there was a greater need to qualify the concepts as to how
to use arts as a tool to better understand the mechanisms of radicalisation by engaging with and securing youth involvement pre and post workshop with the refugee and EU participants. Young people from three countries (UK, Holland and Turkey) plus local refugees came together for 16 days to make ARTS for HUMAN RIGHTS!!!
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Improve by Move” When: 15[th] December 2022
Where: London, UK
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Our Conference on the 15th December 2022 at 18:00 was very exciting. We presented the online dance video guide we created during the two years project "Improve by Move" between Poland, France and UK, supported by the Erasmus+ program co-funded by the European Commission. There was plenty time to do networking with like-minded people/NGOs.
Rap Yoga presents YO!GA, an innovative exercise to music concept featuring rap spoken word instructions and positive rap-affirmations. There was a 10 minutes demonstration.
Freshly Squeezed Lifestyle in 4D enables service users to engage with a variety of physical activities & amp; health related programmes which will educate, inspire & amp; motivate people’s lifestyle choices that achieves personal aspirations; for the well -being of individuals, families and communities.
ForEver Company, a company that promotes health living The Nutty Parties Production, who organise theme parties (Meron Dubale) The Money Charity helps Charities to achieve Financial Wellbeing by managing their money well.
In addition also had representative from: Chelsea Youth Club Earls Court Youth Club Sulgrave Youth Centre Chelsea Theatre College West London Lamberth College Arts Display from:
SHO, an artistic expressionist and a crafter/carver, originally from Ghana. His themes largely centre on the intricacies of human propriety and nature as whole; subjects like life and death, jealousy, wickedness, goodness and betrayal, can easily be found in his work. AKS, a graffiti writer
We had the following special guest:
Berber beats of London's premier Amazigh band, Berber Diffusion; The soulful stylings of Ethan Davis; Rap sensation, Okan;
The joyful rhythms of brothers Sam and Tali; The versatile Lenno-X like Malcolm, a rapper from West London. Speaker Box, a grass roots association that promotes social dance to boost self-confidence. Be ready as they will make ALL of us dance;
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Create and work with your heART” When: 13[th ] – 16[th] February 2023 Where: Nabeul, Tunisia Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The project "Create and work with your heART " was an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange supported by the European Commission. The project supported the artistic connection between young artists from six countries (UK, Italy, Bulgaria, Tunisia, Morocco and Spain) while preparing them to the art industry, how to success and approach it. This was an APV (Advance Planning Visit) where a representative of each country met during those dates and discuss the logistic and artistic part of the project that took place from the 28th May to the 6th June 2023.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
TALENT FACTORY ARTS HUB IS VERY ACTIVE. WE PRODUCE MUSIC AND MUSIC VIDEOS WEEKLY. WE ALSO DELIVER WORKSHOPS IN SCHOOLS, YOUTH CLUBS AND COMMUNITY CENTRES.
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts) Background
NICOLA started in 2008 as an Unincorporated Organisation by a group of young people and arts professionals.
https://soundcloud.com/nicolaarts
https://www.youtube.com/user/NICOLAArtsOfficial https://artists.spotify.com/c/artist/6nAOY7HGy5GUNhx1Fi1Bp0/ home
NICOLA IS REGISTERED TO THE EUROPEAN ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM, WHICH WILL RUN TILL APRIL 2024. THEREFORE WE CAN HOST ENTREPRENUER FROM EUROPE FOR WORK EXPERIENCE FROM TWO TO SIX MONTHS TO ONE YEAR.
Our work methodology is participatory and interactive. Teamwork is encouraged, learning and acquiring skills happens through the implementation and exchange of ideas.
Young people are encouraged to think of ways to bring different culture and style together creating a more unified community, while acquiring skills that can enhance their job opportunity. Moving away from formal learning methods, we discuss various role models and explore a vast selection of working methods.
The informal nature of the activities, the different methodologies used, the need to constantly analyze new information help young people to assimilate knowledge in a fun way, developing skills, understand what/how they learned and how to apply those skills to the everyday life and work environment. Meeting and working with people in the same age category, but from different backgrounds is exciting and a challenging while helps them to learn from each other opinions.
NICOLA was registered with the Charity Commission on 13[th] August 2012. It is established as a company limited by guarantee.
We are grateful to Southern Housing Group in Fulham for provision of inkind of Vanston Community Centre where we can deliver dance and music workshops, international Exchanges and project’s administration.
Objectives and activities
The objectives of the charity are to promote positive interaction within and between youth communities through creative opportunities and projects, particularly in areas of high crime and low provision of extracurricular.
• We provide music, dance, media and mentoring sessions;
• We deliver Youth Exchanges, Youth Initiatives and Study visits through the Erasmus+ program (till the end of 2023);
• We support artists by allowing them to sell their artwork in our “Ministry of Arts” shop/art hub and allowing them to collaborate with other artists, while creating innovative work;
• We implement and develop a full key working and action planning service to our members by training our volunteers and interns;
• We organise music, dance and arts event to allow young artists to perform and build confidence.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Achievements and performance in 2022 – 2023
Key achievements in the year:
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We created and or strengthened working relationship with Youth Clubs, Schools, Housing Associations, Universities, Youth or Arts Organisations, Chelsea Theatre, Chelsea Football Club Foundation, Kensington and Chelsea Foundation and Municipalities creating regular meeting to review methods of work and structures;
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We are creating strong relationship with Estate Agents and landlords receiving rent-free shops to develop our “Ministry of Arts” shop/art hub project.
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We kept in touch with all the participants and partners of the Erasmus+ Program to find ways for us to be still involved with the program/projects.
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We provided an effective key working programme and a lively programme
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of activities for our members;
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We helped three UK young person to open her own music/arts business;
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30% of our interns get a job through the experiences and references gained by working with the Charity;
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We strengthened our relationship with the British Council, Ecorys and secured funding to provide training, mentoring and the opportunity for young people to deliver their own projects till the end of 2023;
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We have created strong links with like minded Organisations around Europe opening to our young members further opportunities for work and experiences;
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Many young people have gain paid work through engaging with us;
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Our young people are fully involved within our projects from the application to the evaluation stage;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czUm79JPrMU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-nOjDQ07q4
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
For more info, music, videos, photos and updates check our web and our social networks:
Please Like Us on Facebook! Subscribe to our Youtube! Listen to our music on Soundcloud!
WEBSITE! https://www.nicolaarts.org/
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Company Registered Number: 07871152 Charity number: 1148529
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS (A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
| CONTENTS | |
|---|---|
| Page | |
| Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity,Its Trustees and Advisors | 1 |
| Trustees' Report | 2 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 3 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 4 |
| Balance sheet | 5 |
| Notes to the Accounts | 6 |
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISORS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31MARCH 2023
Trustees Ms Michela Ferrara Mr Roxana Adamczyk Mr Kevin Sylvester Mr Benjamin Howell
Company registered number 07871152 Charity registered number 1148529 Registered office Community Centre Vanston Place Samuel Lewis Trust Estate London SW6 1BU Bankers Metro Bank One Southampton Row London WC1B 5HA Accountants Tom Bora Management Accountants Ltd Chartered Management Accountants 111 Watling Gate 297303 Edgware Road London NW9 6NB
Page 1
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES'S REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
The Trustees and Management committee present their report together with the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2023
PRINCIPAL ACTIIVITY
To advance education for the benefit of young people in particular in the performing and visual Arts, to promote social inclusion for the public benefit among young people by providing activities that help prevent them from becoming socially excluded and encourage them to participate in the wider community, to help young people especially but not exclusively through leisure and art activities, so as to develop their capabilities that they may grow to full maturity as individulas and members of society and become role models and ambassadors for their peer groups.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
The management committee members of the charity in office during the year were as follows: Trustee Roxana R E Adamczyk Chair Michela Ferrara Trustee Kevin Sylvester Trustee Benijah M Howell
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES AND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE'S RESPONSIBILITIES
The Charities Act 1993 requires the trustees to prepare a statement of accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity at the end of the financial year and of the resources of the charity for the period.
In preparing thes accounts, the trustees are expected to:
select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently; make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; state whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practise have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the statement of accounts; and prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the regulation under S42 of the Charities Act 1993. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of error,
ON BEHALF OF TRUSTEES AND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:
Michela Ferrera
Chair 29[th] Dec 2023 …............................ ….............. Position Date
Page 2
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NEW INTERNATIONAL
COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS
We report on the accounts of New International Company of Live Arts for the year ended 31 March 2023
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 (2) of the charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed.
Having been satisfied that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:
Examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act
To follow the procedures laid down in General Direction given by the Charity commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act and
To state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of independent examiner's report
My examination was carried out in accordance with General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records.It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanation from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and report is limted to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent examiner's statement
In connection with our examination, no matter has come to our attention:
(a)to keep accounting records in accordance with Section 130 of the Charities Act and (b)to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with accounting requirements of theAct have not been met
- (2)to which in our opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper
Mr Tom Bora CGMA ACMA Tom Bora Management Accountants
Date: 27 December 2023
Page 3
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS
(A company Limited by Guarantee) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEATR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
| SOFA 2023 2022 Notes General Fund Designated Funds Restricted Funds |
|
|---|---|
| INCOME 2 Grants - - 29,722 29,722 44,525 Donations - - 0 0 Market/Shop sales 22,939 - - 22,939 26,771 Other Income - - - - - - - 0 - - - - - - - - - - - - Total Income 22,939 - 29,722 52,661 71,296 EXPENDITURE Charitable Activities: Workshop and Project Cost 4,748 - 57,614 62,362 87,876 Awards Administration Expenses 1,000 - - 1,000 1,000 TOTAL EXPENDITURE 5,748 0 57,614 63,362 88,876 Net Movement in funds 17,191 0 (27,892) (10,701) (17,580) Reconcilliation of funds: Total Funds brought forward 61,942 118,235 180,177 197,757 Net movement in funds 20,934 - - 32,634 - 11,700 -17,580 Total funds carried forward 5 82,876 0 85,601 168,476 180,177 |
Approved:
AUTHORISATION
I understand that when I advise Mr T Bora of Tom Bora Management Accountants Ltd , that I have approved this copy, he will be entitled to submit New International company of Live Arts 's financial returns (or amended returns) information using the regulatory online services.
Signed:
Ms Michela Ferrara - Chair of Trustees
Dated: -------------------------Page 4
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS (A company Limited by Guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER:
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2023
| 2023 | 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total | Total | |||
| Note | £ | £ | £ | |
| Fixed Assets: | ||||
| Tangible Fixed Assets | - | - | ||
| Current Assets:- | ||||
| Debtors | - | - | ||
| Bank & Cash in Hand | 4 | 169,477 | 181,175 | |
| Total Current Assets | 169,477 | 181,175 | ||
| Creditors :amounts falling due within one year | 3 | (1,000) | (1,000) | |
| Net Current Assets | 168,477 | 180,175 | ||
| Net Assets | 168,477 | 180,17 |
| FUNDS | ||
|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted Funds | 82,876 | 61,942 |
| Restricted funds | 85,601 | 118,235 |
| Total Funds | 168,477 | 180,177 |
| accounting records and preparation of financial statements. |
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to entities subject to the small companies regime.
No member(s) have required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year ended 31 August 2023 in accordance with section 476 of the companies Act 2006.
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on ….......................and signed on their behalf by:
Ms Michela Ferrara
The notes on pages 6 form part of these financial statements.
Page 5
NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPANY OF LIVE ARTS
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES
1.1 Basis of accounting
These accounts have been prepared on the basis of historical cost in accordance with
*Accounting and Reporting by Charities - Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP 2005)
- and with Accounting Standards; * and with the Charities Act 1993.
1.2 Change in basis of accounting
These has been no change to the accounting policies(valuation rules and methods of accounting since last year.
1.3 Changes to previous accounts
No changes have been made to accounts for previous years
1.4 Incoming Resources
Incoming Resources represent grants, awards, donations, self-generated income
due in the year
1.5 Tangible Fixed Assets
There were no tangible Assets in the year
2
3
4
Income
| Income | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | ||||||
| funds | income | £ | £ | ||||
| Unrestricted | 22,939 | 26,770.69 | |||||
| Evolve | 30,118 | ||||||
| Market/Shop sales/Others | |||||||
| Vitality | 4,736 | ||||||
| Actual START | 13,721 | 8,644.69 | |||||
| DATW | |||||||
| Improve by Move | 11,265 | 5,761.91 | |||||
| Tunisia | |||||||
| Total | 0 | 0 | 52,661 | 71,295 | |||
| 2023 | 2022 | ||||||
| CREDITORS | £ | £ | |||||
| Accrued Expenses | - Independent Exam | 1,000 | 1,000 | ||||
| Total | 1,000 | 1,000 | |||||
| BANK | £ | £ | |||||
| Current Account | 145,397 | 156,369 | |||||
| Paypal | 23,603 | 24,680 | |||||
| Cash in Hand | 477 | 125 | |||||
| 169,478 | 181,174 |
Page 6
5
| Opening Balance | Opening Balance | Income | Expenditure | Closing Balance | Closing Balance | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shop | 23,687.41 | 16,353.00 | 40,040.41 | - | ||
| DATW | - | 6,219.46 | 6,219.46 | - | 0.00 | |
| Reuse and Reduce | - | 911.94 | - | 2,996.92 | - | 3,908.86 |
| Culture | - | 3,877.02 | 3,877.02 | - | 0.00 | |
| Vitality(Digital) | 10,437.76 | 4,736.00 | 6,914.52 | 8,259.24 | ||
| ACTual stART | 21,295.76 | 13,721.29 | 22,166.01 | 12,851.04 | ||
| TWA | 11,338.04 | - | 11,338.04 | - | ||
| Film Connection | 34,297.76 | - | 6,409.28 | 27,888.48 | ||
| Tunisia | 13,995.00 | - | 2,763.70 | 11,231.30 | ||
| Turkey | 302.67 | 302.67 | ||||
| Evolve | 30,118.09 | 30,118.09 | ||||
| Improve by Move | 3,958.35 | 11,264.73 | 16,363.84 | - | 1,140.76 | |
| 138,422 | 56,172 | 108,993 | 85,601 | |||
| Association | 41,755.02 | 56,964.57 | 15,844.03 | 82,876 | ||
| 180,177 | 113,136 | 124,837 | 168,477 |
NICOLA
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts)
Annual Review: 1st April 2022 to 31[st] March 2023
(New International Company of Live Arts)
ANNUAL REVIEW
2022-2023
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts) Vanston Community Centre Samuel Lewis Trust SW6 1BU Telephone: 020 7386 7179 Mobile: 079 7648 3977 E-mail: contact@nicolaarts.org A Company limited by guarantee, number 7871152 A registered Charity, number 1148529
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Board of Management
Michela Ferrara Chair Kevin Sylvester Treasurer Benijah Howell
Staff
All the staffs at NICOLA are volunteers and interns. Based on projects we have free-lances.
Volunteer Creative Director: Michela Ferrara
Volunteer Music Mentor:
Kevin Sylvester
Roxana Roksana Elzbiera Adamczyk
Mission Statement
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts) is a youth lead charity which promote positive interaction within and between youth communities through creative opportunities and projects, particularly in areas of high crime and low provision of extracurricular and arts activities.
Bank: Metro Bank
89-93 Putney High St SW15 1SR
London
Our Vision
To be recognised as a place of support and opportunity for young artists nationwide.
Our Mission
NICOLA offers free arts training and support for inner-city youths to promote confidence and social inclusion, to popularise the arts and to create opportunities for young people who don’t always have access to professional training.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Creative Director and Chair’s Report
I am delighted to report that the year 2022-2023, despite Brexit and COVID, was a year of solid performance at NICOLA.
Our main activity has continued to be training and development of young people in music, dance, arts and arts job skills, concentrating mainly in helping them to prepare plans in running and create Solo Trader or Company business, media communication and brand promotion. The quality of our services has remained high; helping young people to improve their lives, providing a supportive environment to allow them to develop their personalities, their talents, preparing and helping them to build their self confidence, to find suitable education and/or employment both in the artistic field and outside or to run their own business or Social Enterprise. Keeping their mind busy, on positive initiatives, has also helped them to recover from COVID restriction's crisis.
The support from the European Commission through the British Council and Ecorys has run through this year assuring us projects till summer 2023. Our relationship with Housing Associations, local Youth Clubs, Youth Hostels, The K&C Foundation, Chelsea Football Club Foundation and Volunteering Centres has increased as we supported each other through online interaction in those hard times. In addition, we have also received private donors funding supports and were offered a free POP UP shop in Embankment in April 2023; the local support was amazing, we received a great deal of donations, which enable us to set the shop in less than a week, creating an artist innovative shop where artisans can sell their creation while recycling and up-cycling is highly promoted. We believe that this is NICOLA future way to generate income to support artists and youth people.
At NICOLA centre we still have a fully equipped recording studio for the young people personal and professional growing/development, which we started to reuse it. Our weekly car-boot selling has helped to raise more funds to support the Charity. As always we put particular effort into working with young people with socio/economic obstacles who cannot afford professional training. We engage and facilitate learning in a non-formal way and prepare young people for life after their interaction with NICOLA. In order to achieve this, we make sure we work closely with our local community, youth clubs, Housing Associations and like-minded Organisations.
NICOLA engages young people aged between 13 to 25 and up to 30 years old through the Erasmus+ projects. Due to the fact that our young people plan and deliver the projects, it enable them to be in charge of those projects, give the chance to many of them to progress further education or employment, becoming mentors to other young people and/or start their own freelance work or Company.
We are very grateful to our young interns and volunteers for their dedication and commitment to NICOLA and are very happy that many of them gained paid jobs as result of practice and growing in confidence while at the Charity. Our strong relationship with Universities in London and Europe has enabled us to accommodate just graduated students giving them the chance to explore the professional work through a friendly environment. We still keep a creative connection between disadvantage youths from London and Leeds, with the endorsement of celebrity dancer "Sadie Flower"; we are still planning connection projects with the young people and we hope to receive financial support very soon.
In London, our young people continue to plan and apply for funding and always look at ways to improve and develop positive initiatives. They are meetings on a regular basis. Our work would not have been possible without the professionalism and dedication of our volunteers and free-lances.
Good working relationships and practices have been developed with the British Youth Council, Ecorys, Schools, Youth Clubs, Arts groups and Municipalities all around Europe. NICOLA through the Erasmus+ projects has also developed strong relation with likeminded Youth Organisations and Institutions around the globe. Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person, in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we also had many self-funded interns. Our members were 100% involved in the planning of the projects.
NICOLA is still very young, but we are looking at ways to improve our financial and structural methods and look at ways to grow bigger and better and serve further young people.
Special thanks will go to our Trustees who are investing their time to assure that NICOLA reaches the best practise possible.
Michela Ferrara (NICOLA Creative Director)
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Projects
Project: “Ministry of Arts” When: ONGOING (from March 2023)
Where: 30 – 32 Fleet Street
Funded by: Spring4 Description:
Ministry of Arts is an art/hub shop with a difference. Offering unique designs, up cycled clothing and painted clothing by a number of artists. We will also sell art, paintings, photos, arts and crafts to help talented artists make a living. You can come with your own clothing or accessories to be customised or you can buy ready made designs from the shop.
The art/hub shop aim is to combat the surplus stock sent to countries like Africa, having a negative impact on their textile industry.
The funding provided by the charity shop will help fund arts projects with disadvantaged young people in the UK. Future Aims of the charity shop is to also provide funding to set up social enterprises in Africa to help support designers in Africa.
Project: “Improve by Move” When: 2020 - 2022
Where: Lublin, Marseille, London.
Funded by: European Commission through Poland Erasmus+ Agency Description:
The main goal of this strategic partnership project is to develop an innovative support program for young people with the use of artistic influences and thus increase the level of psychosocial competences and selfacceptance. The project supports both youth workers and youth aged 13-18 from 3 culturally different countries: Poland (Through Sempre a Frente), UK (Through NICOLA) and France (Through ESSEVESSE). The aims of the project will be met through participation in dance and movement workshops and exchange of experiences with specialists from partner organisations.
We will also have a lovely coffee area, so come in, have a coffee and a browse of our collections.
https://www.facebook.com/marco.colombo.london/videos/10165179159390305
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: "Improve by MOVE" (Dance Workshops) When: 2021 - 2023
Where: London, Marseille, Lublin.
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
These dance workshops were part of the project "IMPROVE by MOVE" funded by the Erasmus+, between Poland through "Sempre a Frente", France through "eSSeVeSSe" and UK through NICOLA. The main goal of this strategic partnership project was to develop an innovative support program for youth with the use of artistic influences and thus increase the level of psychosocial competences and self-acceptance. The project supported both youth workers and youth aged 13-18 from 3 different countries.
Project: "SoundScape" x Okan: Episode I When: 7[th] April 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians.
Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week. First up: Okan Roll on April the 7th!
Soundscape radio
The aims of the project was met through participation in dance and movement workshops and exchange of experiences with specialists from partner organisations. This was a nine weeks dance workshops (Afrobeat - Dance Hall - Hip Hop) started from 21 March to the 23[rd] May 2022 (every Tuesday from 16:00 - 20:00).
https://www.facebook.com/NICOLA.Arts/videos/372704828208481
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “European Projects” When: 31.01.2022 – 30.06.2022 Where: Italy and UK Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The "Consorzio Percorsi", from South Italy, operates in a complex and problematic context working to promote Local Development, therefore their intend it is to promote and implement European cooperation as a "strategic dimension" for local development, becoming a point of reference on the territory. For this, it was necessary to create a new area within the organisation, which was called "European Cooperation", an information and a service centre, assisting business plans and introduting European fundings for start-ups and micro businesses. The "European Cooperation" project was a long journey and a complex path as the objectives were very ambitious; therefore to be achieved it was necessary to take "one step at a time", starting by building a solid foundation. The first step was realised in September/October 2019, by sending one expert on national and regional projects and one youth operator to acquire new skills in an expert NGO in London, focusing on:
Design methodology for European projects; Skills and knowledge related to the Erasmus+ program which it appeared to be consistent with a good part of the Consorzio Percorsi' s mission, as they are working with young people and young migrants; The second step took place in March/April/May 2022, by sending one expert and one youth operator to learn/improve implementation and management of European projects through active participation in funded projects;
Project: “SoundScape” x Blue Moon: Episode II” When: 15[th] April 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians.
Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week.
Sara created a beautiful feeling of harmony with her voice and various instruments and it was presented via the radio SoundScape.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “SoundScape” x Chelsea: Episode III When: 22[nd] April 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians. Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week.
On the day, Chelsea shared her experience with music in a very moving interview and played some of her original songs.
Project: “Soundscape x Chelsea: Episode III” When: 13[th] May 2022
Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Form April 2022 we accommodate a Spanish young person (for three months), in London, through the Young Entrepreneur program; we helped her to create her own Radio’s program in London with young singers/rappers/musicians. Let the music be your escape!
The Radio introduced new artists every week.
On the day, we shared an interview with Vincent as well as videos of his songs, full of energy and light.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “ACTual stART” When: 18 – 27 May 2022 Where: London
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
ACTual stART was a mix art project with three phases (Italy - Armenia - UK) between 6 countries (UK - Italy - Armenia - Ukraine - Spain - Hungary) with a theme of Human Right. - In the first phase (Italy) the participants created a photo exhibition, which made the project visible at local level while spreading on social media as well. This was our first phase!!! - In the second phase (Armenia) participants created stage performances, in a public place, which will include their message on the “issues in their communities” and ways to solve them. - In the third phase (UK) the participants devised a dance performances outdoor an indoor and make the final video presenting all the process. Between phases the youngsters carried out some local activities using the gained knowledge and experience which also spread the information about the project impact. This was the third phase!!!
Project: “Dance Expression (FLASH MOB)” When: 18 – 27 May 2022
Where: Trafalgar Square, London Funded by: Erasmus+
Description:
From 18[th] to 27[th] May 2022 we implemented the project ACTual stART with the aim of discussing and creating materials to help the Human Rights issues. Youth people from 6 countries (Armenia, Ukraine, UK, Italy, Hungary and Spain) came together to challenge those issues. On Sunday 22nd May in collaboration with "Speaker Box" we were in Trafalgar Square from 6PM, to DANCE - DANCE - DANCE and music performances. It was an AMAZING event!
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Digital Storytelling for Youth Work” When: 28[th] May to 5[th] June 2022 Where: Benevento, Italy Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
‘WHETHER FACT OR FICTION, HOW YOU DECIDE TO TELL YOUR STORY IS ALMOST AS IMPORTANT AS WHAT YOUR STORY IS.’ - PHILIP PULLMAN, AUTHOR.
The possibilities of digital technologies have turned everyone into a potential narrator, but digital storytelling is more than just telling a story. It is an inclusion tool engaging the community that can be used in different contexts to solve complex social issues. Digital storytelling helped civic organisations to give a human face to abstractions such as freedom, tolerance, solidarity, etc., to promote universal values and basic rights, to disseminate their performance and results more efficiently and, in so doing, to be a sustainable factor in the social dialogue.
Project: “Erasmus+ Program for young people and youth workers” When: 31[st] May 2022
Where: Ariano Irpino, Italy Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The "Consorzio Percorsi", from South Italy, operates in a complex and problematic context working to promote Local Development, therefore their intend it is to promote and implement European cooperation as a "strategic dimension" for local development, becoming a point of reference on the territory. Tuesday 31st May 2022 at 18.30 Percorsi introduced Erasmus+ Program for Young People and Youth Workers (learn about this program, how to participate, how to implement and all the opportunity given by the European Commission). This was the right event for anyone that wanted to learn or improve the variety of programs part of the Erasmus+.
"Digital Storytelling for Youth Work" was a training course that aimed to improve the quality of youth work by equipping youth workers with competencies on using digital storytelling in daily work for reaching out marginalised young people, promoting diversity, intercultural and interreligious dialogue, etc.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Film Connection APV”
When: 3[rd] May 2022
Where: Online
Funded by: Erasmus+
Description:
Online Advance Planning Visit for the project Film Connection. A project that saw young people from UK, Turkey and Italy working on creating a photo exhibition, short films and music to fight Human Right issues; this will take place in Italy, UK and Turkey.
Project: “Inclusion through Art When: 12[th] – 28[th] 2022
Where: Eskieshir, Turkey
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Newly arrived migrants in Turkey don't know their human rights, which is an obstacle to their involvement in society as citizens; young refugees can be integrated into society through the arts as a non-formal approach, with us functioning as mediators between civil rights and people: Based on previous experiences from prior Erasmus+ projects, there was a greater need to qualify the concepts as to how to use arts as a tool to better understand the mechanisms of radicalisation by engaging with and securing youth involvement pre-and post-workshop with the refugee and EU participants.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Film Connection” When: 19[th] – 28[th] June 2022 Where: Naples, Italy
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
FILM CONNECTION was an Erasmus+ youth exchange program, of the European Union, between UK, Italy and Turkey, that wanted to raise awareness about human rights issues using various performative art to stimulate transformative action and social change. During the week we created short films that mention the surreal and potentially harmful drift of the excessive use of technology in our daily life, by building a paradoxical and dystopian scenario of our society During the making of the movie production everyone had a specific role and we
encourage people to share their experiences and ideas in order to enhance everybody's values.
Project: “Improve by Move” When: 30[th] August – 3nd September 2022 Where: London, UK
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The main goal of this strategic partnership project was to develop an innovative support program for young people with the use of artistic influences and thus increase the level of psychosocial competences and self-acceptance. The project supported both youth workers and youth aged 13-18 from 3 culturally different countries: Poland (Through Sempre a Frente), UK (Through NICOLA) and France (Through Cie EssevessE). The aims of the project were met through participation in dance and movement workshops and exchange of experiences with specialists from partner organisations. This was the Evaluation Meeting, taking place in London, were we evaluated this AMAZING 2 years project and made solid plans for dissemination.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “B.E.T.T.E.R” When: 5[th] – 10[th] October 2022
Where: Benevento, Italy
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
This Training Course aimed at Youth Workers committed in everyday work with young people, social issues and relationships. The main objective was to develop the competences of youth workers in terms of empathy and sensitivity to foster better working dynamics and empower skills and self-referentiality. Expected participants in the project gained the experience and the interest in working with young people using communicative tools in social contexts, exploring empathy fields and managing the right key skills to develop a working sensitivity. The methodological approach of the project was focused on non-formal education, and the working methods included communication techniques, team building, simulations, debates, working groups, workshops, evaluation sessions and follow-up activities.
Project: “Craft for Human Rights”
When: 22[nd] November – 8[th] December 2022
Where: Eskieshir, Turkey Funded by: Erasmus+
Description:
Newly arrived migrants in Turkey don't know their human rights, which is an obstacle to their involvement in society as citizens; through the workshop, the young refugees were integrated into society through the arts as a non-formal approach, with us functioning as mediators between civil rights and people: Based on previous experiences from our prior Erasmus+ projects, there was a greater need to qualify the concepts as to how
to use arts as a tool to better understand the mechanisms of radicalisation by engaging with and securing youth involvement pre and post workshop with the refugee and EU participants. Young people from three countries (UK, Holland and Turkey) plus local refugees came together for 16 days to make ARTS for HUMAN RIGHTS!!!
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Improve by Move” When: 15[th] December 2022
Where: London, UK
Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
Our Conference on the 15th December 2022 at 18:00 was very exciting. We presented the online dance video guide we created during the two years project "Improve by Move" between Poland, France and UK, supported by the Erasmus+ program co-funded by the European Commission. There was plenty time to do networking with like-minded people/NGOs.
Rap Yoga presents YO!GA, an innovative exercise to music concept featuring rap spoken word instructions and positive rap-affirmations. There was a 10 minutes demonstration.
Freshly Squeezed Lifestyle in 4D enables service users to engage with a variety of physical activities & amp; health related programmes which will educate, inspire & amp; motivate people’s lifestyle choices that achieves personal aspirations; for the well -being of individuals, families and communities.
ForEver Company, a company that promotes health living The Nutty Parties Production, who organise theme parties (Meron Dubale) The Money Charity helps Charities to achieve Financial Wellbeing by managing their money well.
In addition also had representative from: Chelsea Youth Club Earls Court Youth Club Sulgrave Youth Centre Chelsea Theatre College West London Lamberth College Arts Display from:
SHO, an artistic expressionist and a crafter/carver, originally from Ghana. His themes largely centre on the intricacies of human propriety and nature as whole; subjects like life and death, jealousy, wickedness, goodness and betrayal, can easily be found in his work. AKS, a graffiti writer
We had the following special guest:
Berber beats of London's premier Amazigh band, Berber Diffusion; The soulful stylings of Ethan Davis; Rap sensation, Okan;
The joyful rhythms of brothers Sam and Tali; The versatile Lenno-X like Malcolm, a rapper from West London. Speaker Box, a grass roots association that promotes social dance to boost self-confidence. Be ready as they will make ALL of us dance;
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Project: “Create and work with your heART” When: 13[th ] – 16[th] February 2023 Where: Nabeul, Tunisia Funded by: Erasmus+ Description:
The project "Create and work with your heART " was an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange supported by the European Commission. The project supported the artistic connection between young artists from six countries (UK, Italy, Bulgaria, Tunisia, Morocco and Spain) while preparing them to the art industry, how to success and approach it. This was an APV (Advance Planning Visit) where a representative of each country met during those dates and discuss the logistic and artistic part of the project that took place from the 28th May to the 6th June 2023.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
TALENT FACTORY ARTS HUB IS VERY ACTIVE. WE PRODUCE MUSIC AND MUSIC VIDEOS WEEKLY. WE ALSO DELIVER WORKSHOPS IN SCHOOLS, YOUTH CLUBS AND COMMUNITY CENTRES.
NICOLA (New International Company of Live Arts) Background
NICOLA started in 2008 as an Unincorporated Organisation by a group of young people and arts professionals.
https://soundcloud.com/nicolaarts
https://www.youtube.com/user/NICOLAArtsOfficial https://artists.spotify.com/c/artist/6nAOY7HGy5GUNhx1Fi1Bp0/ home
NICOLA IS REGISTERED TO THE EUROPEAN ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM, WHICH WILL RUN TILL APRIL 2024. THEREFORE WE CAN HOST ENTREPRENUER FROM EUROPE FOR WORK EXPERIENCE FROM TWO TO SIX MONTHS TO ONE YEAR.
Our work methodology is participatory and interactive. Teamwork is encouraged, learning and acquiring skills happens through the implementation and exchange of ideas.
Young people are encouraged to think of ways to bring different culture and style together creating a more unified community, while acquiring skills that can enhance their job opportunity. Moving away from formal learning methods, we discuss various role models and explore a vast selection of working methods.
The informal nature of the activities, the different methodologies used, the need to constantly analyze new information help young people to assimilate knowledge in a fun way, developing skills, understand what/how they learned and how to apply those skills to the everyday life and work environment. Meeting and working with people in the same age category, but from different backgrounds is exciting and a challenging while helps them to learn from each other opinions.
NICOLA was registered with the Charity Commission on 13[th] August 2012. It is established as a company limited by guarantee.
We are grateful to Southern Housing Group in Fulham for provision of inkind of Vanston Community Centre where we can deliver dance and music workshops, international Exchanges and project’s administration.
Objectives and activities
The objectives of the charity are to promote positive interaction within and between youth communities through creative opportunities and projects, particularly in areas of high crime and low provision of extracurricular.
• We provide music, dance, media and mentoring sessions;
• We deliver Youth Exchanges, Youth Initiatives and Study visits through the Erasmus+ program (till the end of 2023);
• We support artists by allowing them to sell their artwork in our “Ministry of Arts” shop/art hub and allowing them to collaborate with other artists, while creating innovative work;
• We implement and develop a full key working and action planning service to our members by training our volunteers and interns;
• We organise music, dance and arts event to allow young artists to perform and build confidence.
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
Achievements and performance in 2022 – 2023
Key achievements in the year:
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We created and or strengthened working relationship with Youth Clubs, Schools, Housing Associations, Universities, Youth or Arts Organisations, Chelsea Theatre, Chelsea Football Club Foundation, Kensington and Chelsea Foundation and Municipalities creating regular meeting to review methods of work and structures;
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We are creating strong relationship with Estate Agents and landlords receiving rent-free shops to develop our “Ministry of Arts” shop/art hub project.
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We kept in touch with all the participants and partners of the Erasmus+ Program to find ways for us to be still involved with the program/projects.
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We provided an effective key working programme and a lively programme
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of activities for our members;
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We helped three UK young person to open her own music/arts business;
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30% of our interns get a job through the experiences and references gained by working with the Charity;
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We strengthened our relationship with the British Council, Ecorys and secured funding to provide training, mentoring and the opportunity for young people to deliver their own projects till the end of 2023;
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We have created strong links with like minded Organisations around Europe opening to our young members further opportunities for work and experiences;
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Many young people have gain paid work through engaging with us;
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Our young people are fully involved within our projects from the application to the evaluation stage;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czUm79JPrMU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-nOjDQ07q4
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529
For more info, music, videos, photos and updates check our web and our social networks:
Please Like Us on Facebook! Subscribe to our Youtube! Listen to our music on Soundcloud!
WEBSITE! https://www.nicolaarts.org/
www.nicolaarts.org / contact@nicolaarts.org / 020 7386 88 65 Vanston Community Centre, Samuel Lewis Trust London SW6 1BU Registered Charity Number 1148529