The annual Aberdeen Cultural Summit, held at Aberdeen City Campus, brought together over 100 professionals from Aberdeen's creative industries for a day of discussion and collaboration. The event, a partnership between the University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University (RGU), and NESCol, aims to share ideas, build connections, and promote opportunities within the local creative sector.
This year's summit focused on fostering connections among creatives, covering topics such as new technologies, digital marketing, cross-sector collaboration, and the future of the North East's screen sector. Keynote speaker David Officer, leading Aberdeen City Council's creative industries strategy, presented new research highlighting the sector's significant economic value and potential for the region's future.
Robin McGregor, Vice Principal of Curriculum & Quality at NESCol, opened the event, emphasising the fundamental role of culture and creativity in the North East. He stated, “Culture and creativity are fundamental to what makes the North East a great place to live, learn and work. They enrich our lives and communities, while also contributing to the skills, innovation and ideas that will shape our region’s future.” He added that NESCol plays a vital role in nurturing talent and creating opportunities.
Sara Stroud, Television Lecturer at NESCol and lead organiser, hosted a workshop on Aberdonian filmmakers and local storytelling. She commented, “There are great people and talent in Aberdeen. With so much happening in the city, I’d personally like to see more local documentary filmmaking being produced and celebrated.” Stroud also stressed the importance of investment in local creative industries and organisations, noting that “Every £1 invested in creative industries generates £5 for the UK economy, not to mention the health and wellbeing benefits that we get from having a rich and vibrant cultural sector.”
