As Future Talent approaches its 20th anniversary this November, the charity is marking this significant milestone with the launch of a new Advisory Group. Comprised of leading figures from music, media, business, and the arts, the group will offer strategic guidance and support to shape the charity’s future and expand its impact on nurturing gifted young musicians from low-income backgrounds.
October 10, 2024
A Visionary Panel for the Next Chapter
The new Advisory Group brings together an impressive roster of professionals, including:
Sam Jackson, Controller of BBC Radio 3 and the BBC Proms
Izzy Judd, Violinist and Presenter of BBC's Music and Meditation podcast
Sara Rajeswaran, Former Chief of Staff at Aviva
Geoff Parkin, Artistic Director of the Royal Over-Seas League
Dana Denis-Smith, CEO of Obelisk Support and Founder of the First 100 Years Campaign
Mei Sim Lai OBE DL, Chair of The British Malaysian Society
Ben Weston-Conway, Communications and Brand Consultant
Ben Vonberg-Clark, Conductor and Choral Music Campaigner
Danae Eggen, Artist Manager at Ikon Arts Management
Lisa Thomas, Corporate Governance Specialist
Jacques Domican-Bird, Dispute Resolution Associate at Rosenblatt
Khosro Ezaz-Nikpay, Founder of Enjoin Partners
Glen Manoff, Chief Marketing Officer at Riverlane
Clare Cook, CEO of Future Talent, warmly welcomed the group, stating: "As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’re excited to bring together such an accomplished group of individuals. Their expertise and passion for nurturing young talent will enable us to break down more barriers and create vital opportunities for the next generation of musicians.”
Strategic Leadership for a New Era
The Advisory Group will play a crucial role in helping Future Talent execute its vision to support young musicians facing financial barriers. They will provide leadership, expand the charity's network of supporters, and guide the charity through its milestone year and beyond.
The group includes prominent figures like Sam Jackson, who remarked: “Talented musicians can come from anywhere, but too often, opportunities remain limited to the wealthy. Future Talent’s mission is vital in ensuring young musicians from all backgrounds have the chance to thrive.”
Izzy Judd echoed this sentiment, saying: “Music has the power to change lives. I’m honoured to be part of this new chapter, where we can create even more opportunities for gifted young musicians to flourish.”
The Advisory Group will help steer Future Talent through its 20th-anniversary celebrations, which will culminate in a special concert at London’s Roundhouse on 22nd April 2025. The event will showcase performances from musicians supported by Future Talent and feature prominent figures from the music industry.
A Legacy of Empowering Young Musicians
Since its founding in 2004 by HRH The Duchess of Kent and Nicholas Robinson, Future Talent has empowered hundreds of young musicians across the UK, helping them overcome financial barriers and access opportunities to develop their musical potential.
Looking ahead, the new Advisory Group will ensure Future Talent continues to provide life-changing support, creating pathways for young musicians to achieve their dreams.
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