The Asian Creative & Digital Economy Youth Summit (ACE-YS) 2024 is excited to announce the return of its flagship program, the Creative Catalyst. Easily one of the most anticipated parts of the summit, this is the space where young Asian creators, creativepreneurs, academicians, policymakers, and community leaders come together to connect, exchange insights, and discuss challenges in the region’s creative economy scene.
Similar to last year, people could apply to either one of two subprograms or “routes”, Delegate and Creator. The Creative Catalyst-Delegate route focuses more on creating a sustainable action plan through a collaborative process. Meanwhile, the Creative Catalyst-Creator route is designed as a platform to showcase creative works and gain access to potential investors, funding institutions, and collaborators.
Viandira Athia, affectionately known as Caca, is back on the role of Head of Creative Catalyst 2024. With nearly 10 years of experience working in the creative sector under her belt, Caca has a clear vision on how the program could better support young Asian creatives in their personal and professional journey.
“The Creative Catalyst program is designed for individuals who aspire to create a sustainable and innovative environment within the creative economy. It offers youth the opportunity to voice their perspectives and access investment and funding,” Caca explained.
Opportunities for Growth, Networking, and More
Participation in the Creative Catalyst 2024 program is open to all Asian nationals aged 18-35 who are active in the creative and digital economy sector. Young policy-makers, creative practitioners, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and academicians passionate about advocating for issues within the creative and digital economy sector are encouraged to apply.
In addition to exclusive networking access with prominent figures in the creative and digital scene, the Creative Catalyst program also offers numerous opportunities for professional and personal growth. Participants will be able to attend workshops, networking events, and panel discussions featuring industry leaders and experts. Designed to provide insights into the latest trends and challenges in the Asian creative economy, these agendas will equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in this dynamic sector.
Compared to last year, Creative Catalyst 2024 introduces new features. Designed for the Creative Catalyst-Creators route, Pitching 101 session aims to help creators and entrepreneurs prepare their pitches for potential investors or funders.
“Pitching 101 is an exciting addition to the program. It will provide participants with the tools and confidence they need to effectively present their ideas and secure the support they need to bring their projects to life,” Caca noted.
©2023 ACE-YS/Gani Amin
Delegates, on the other hand, will collaborate to establish an action plan, fostering a cooperative environment for industry advancement. This collaborative approach is designed to encourage the sharing of ideas and resources, helping to create a more interconnected and supportive creative economy ecosystem.
Furthermore, Creative Catalyst 2024 programs foster a supportive environment for the growth of Asia’s creative industry. Initiated by the Asian Creative and Digital Economy Youth Summit (ACE-YS), this program encourages more youth to be a part of this collective action.
Now or Never!
Registration for the Creative Catalyst 2024 program will officially open from August 1 to September 1, 2024. Regarding this, Beatrice Deviana, a staff member of Creative Catalyst 2024, expressed her optimism for future participants of the program.
“I believe the Creative Catalyst program can truly foster discussions and collaborations within the creative and digital industries, enhancing the ecosystem for the future,” said Beatrice.
©2023 ACE-YS/Gani Amin
This sentiment is echoed by Mutiara Budi Aprilianty, another program staff member. “I hope young people who are actively engaged in the creative and digital sectors will participate in the program to contribute to the industry’s advancement, ultimately benefiting their own growth within the industry,” she stated.
The announcement of the selected participants for Creative Catalyst 2024 will be made on September 14, 2024. For those interested in being part of this program and driving the growth of Asia’s creative industry, klick here to learn more about the program. Updates and more information are available on ACE-YS social media and website ace-ys.org.
Writer : Khalid Rismoyo
Editor : K. Langit Rinesti
