Toipoto - Creative Career Development

Ko koe tēnā ko au tēnei kīwai o te Kete

You take that handle and I'll take this handle of the kete. Working together we will succeed.

 

The Big Idea has been supporting Aotearoa creatives for 21 years. This is our kaupapa, this is what we do.

Now, we are stepping it up a notch with Toipoto. 

What is Toipoto?

Toipoto (Closer Together) is our free creative career development programme for the Auckland creative sector. Developed from our popular Mentoring in the Arts format, Toipoto has been expertly designed for those starting out or those looking to build momentum in their creative journey.  We are driven to help you grow a sustainable and rewarding career in the sector.

You will join The Big Idea community, one that’s experienced and motivated to help you connect to the people and pulse of the sector, to give you the tools and tips you need to thrive.  This isn’t about teaching you how to be creative (you have that covered already) - this is about arming you with the skills that are so often the hardest to acquire.

It doesn’t matter what your creative background is - visual or performance artist, event planner, producer, game developer, musician, or the countless other options throughout the sector - our programme embraces all disciplines.  We have a team of expert mentors with real-world knowledge and experience, and they are there to help build your career.  Toipoto is designed to give you a different way of looking at your mahi.  

This programme is for artists who are looking to find employment or to forge success in self-employment. You may be a creative whose income has been affected by COVID-19 and are looking to or have applied to go on a jobseeker benefit.

The Big Idea exists to encourage artists to turn their big ideas into big successes. Toipoto could be what makes the difference for you.

What can Toipoto do for you?

We want to help you thrive and find your place in the creative community.  While you work on your next project or to find your ideal job, Toipoto will help position you for success with a programme tailored to your individual needs.                                                                                      

Our programme includes:

  • Personal Development Plan
  • Lean Canvas Planning tool
  • One on one mentoring sessions
  • Fortnightly syndicate peer-to-peer learning sessions
  • Fortnightly workshops with industry experts
  • Access to a closed Facebook collaboration group
  • Access to an ever growing library of resources
  • Promotional opportunities
  • Networking
  • A supportive community

Is Toipoto For You? 

We would love to hear from you if you are:  

  • Highly motivated
  • Living in Auckland 
  • A New Zealand resident
  • Aged between 18-64 years 
  • Have a recognised creative qualification or relevant experience in a creative field
  • Have time available to commit to the programme (participation is required during business hours)

This eligibility includes established creatives and those working in the sector who have been affected by COVID-19, and recent graduates from tertiary education in a creative field looking for a job or self-employment in the creative sector. You may or may not be receiving Work and Income payments.

So what next?

If you meet the above criteria please fill out your details and hit the submit box below.  We will then get back to you with the online personal profile form. 

If you’re eligible for the programme, our Toipoto team will be in touch within a matter of days.

The pilot programme is intended to run for a maximum of nine months for any individual and comes with an Exit Plan.  Our contract for delivery ends in February 2023.  We are keen to assist you to build the networks and gain the experience you need to hit the ground running.