Arts organisation wins university grant to inspire youngsters

Surtal Arts has announced its has received a grant from the University of Derby for a new series of events designed to inspire young people.

The ‘Inspire’ events features Derby-born Karam Singh, better known as Kid Karam, and will launch Surtal Arts ‘Urban Asia’ programme.

Karam began breaking with Derby’s Trinity Warriors and was soon competing in national events such as the UK B-Boy Championships, where he was the youngest participant.

He has since garnered international recognition in competitions across the globe – and was the first ever male breaking athlete for global sports brand Nike.

A series of ‘Inspire’ events will take place in Derby schools, with an introduction to Karam’s professional life and achievements; including what initially inspired him to get into breaking and the challenges he has overcome along the way.

He will also offer tips for a successful career as an artist and advice for young people forging their own career paths.

The ‘Inspire’ events are funded by the university’s Civic Community Fund and will be part of a wider series of events called Urban Asia, funded by Arts Council England, which aims to develop local diverse talent.

Nathan Geering, artistic director at Surtal Arts, said “Karam’s inspirational talks and demonstrations kick off Surtal Arts’ new ‘Urban Asia’ programme; which aims to develop local talent and nurture them into internationally recognised artists.

“We hope to show ambition and positive change through culture by showcasing the career of Derby-born Karam Singh; both as an excellent role model and inspiring Derby’s young people.

“Through our programme of activity, including ‘Urban Asia’, Surtal continues to champion the arts as a driver for excellence, helping to grow the creative and cultural ecology of Derby and Derbyshire; celebrating diversity and positive identity within our communities.”

The University of Derby Civic Community Fund supports local groups, organisations and individuals across Derby and Derbyshire.

As well as receiving seed funding from the university, successful applicants are invited to work closely with researchers and other experts at the university to profile and share their work within the wider civic community.

Rhiannon Jones, professor of civic and communities, said: “The Civic Community Fund enables us to offer tailored support to local groups and individuals whose work can benefit from the expertise that the university can provide.

“We want to work with people who see value in lasting partnerships and who are eager to develop their projects with our experts to make a real difference both to the region and the communities within in.”

Any schools wishing to be involved by hosting an Inspire talk with Karam Singh should e-mail kathy@surtalarts.co.uk.