Mentoring
'My mentor was a perfect match for me and helped me get my new job at Tonic! Different perspectives and putting oneself “out there” can be scary, but it is incredibly rewarding! It was really life changing and helped me grow so much!'
Mariana Rodrigues, Former Ballet Dancer & Beyond Dance Mentee
about beyond dance mentoring
Beyond Dance Mentoring matches dancers with extraordinary people, from both inside the creative industries and beyond. Connecting dancers with mentors with unique skills and experience; the programme helps challenge and support both personal and professional growth.
WHO IS MENTORING SUITABLE FOR?
Dancers who are ready and motivated to take the next step, and to gain a fresh perspective on topics such as:
- Attaining your career goals
- Career transitions and evolution
- Developing your leadership potential
- Starting your own business
- Attaining a healthy work-life balance
- Building your self-belief and confidence
This programme focusses on your individual professional and personal development. You will have time to explore your future career steps, discover your unique strengths, values and skills, and how these can help you take charge of your career.
AM I ELIGIBLE?
The programme is open to dancers from all genres with at least five years’ professional performing experience in the UK.
The programme is open to dancers who are currently performing and those who have recently retired from their performance career. Dancers should be currently based in the UK.
A programme for all dancers
As an organisation committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, DCD actively encourages applications from dancers at all stages of their career, of all backgrounds, cultures and lived experiences, from any geographical location.
Illness or injury
Should you be unable to meet the application criteria set out above because you were forced to retire due to physical or mental illness or injury, you may still be eligible. Please contact us on dancers@thedcd.org.uk.
Applications to take part in Beyond Dance Mentoring 2026 are now closed. The application schedule to take part in 2027 will be announced in Summer 2026. Join our mailing list or follow our socials to keep up-to-date with our news.
Time Commitment
It is expected that over the course of 12 months (starting January 2026) mentees will:
- attend 2 x face to face events (likely both London-based)
- have regular contact with their mentors (e.g. once a month, usually online, except where geography permits otherwise)
- appropriately action any self-reflection, research or other tasks as agreed with their mentor
- meet online with DCD staff approximately six times during the year
- make good use of the provided resources and other tools provided
- participate fully in evaluation tasks (usually at the mid-way and end-point of the programme)
Meet the 2026 Beyond Dance Mentees and read about their reasons for joining the programme...
Click here to read bio.
Bettina Carpi
Bettina is an independent choreographer, dance artist and practitioner, and Co-Director of Company Carpi. After graduating from London Contemporary Dance School she performed and worked with many dance companies and choreographers, including CandoCo Dance Company (2003-2011), Marc Brew, Annie Pui Ling Lok and Arthur Pita. Upon completing an MA in Dance (supported by DCD) Bettina co-founded Company Carpi with husband and composer Gary Lloyd, to give expression to their collaborative work: combining dance with live music and other art forms. Alongside Company Carpi she teaches and facilitates dance extensively in various educational, community and health & wellbeing settings.
“Whilst I have worked in dance over many years, I’m keen to build on my impact and reach as a facilitator, artist and leader. With this mentorship programme I’m hoping to grow more confident in my leadership and business skills, being able to create stronger, more strategic and effective positive change for dance and other art forms longer-term, so that many more people can engage with, participate in, and enjoy dance and all the wonderful benefits that come with it.”
Click here to read bio.
Hannah Chandler
Han is a London-based commercial dancer, choreographer and teacher working across stage, screen and creative projects. Her work is driven by musicality, precision and emotional connection, shaped by over ten years of teaching and informed by a background in behavioural science. Rather than following a traditional college route, she has developed her practice through professional training and industry experience. Han runs an adult open class, LoveDance, tutors dancers one-to-one, and is focused on touring with artists on large-scale productions and expanding into creative direction.
“I’m very much an “ideas person”, but navigating the performing arts industry, after being raised in the corporate world, has presented some challenges, particularly as I became a professional dancer later than many. Having successfully made the jump into performing, I’m now ready for the next level to be illuminated and need help turning ideas into consistent, practical action. I applied for the Beyond Dance mentoring programme because I want guidance in making strategic choices, strengthening my professional presence, and navigating the industry with intention and confidence.”
Click here to read bio.
Lily Dettmer
Lily trained at London Contemporary Dance School and worked with companies including DV8 and choreographer Estelle Clareton. She taught dance for organisations including The Place, DanceEast and The Royal Ballet, teaching from early years to vocational students and older adults. As a Learning & Participation Manager she has developed programmes including Rambert’s Dance for Parkinson’s, youth projects for Studio Wayne McGregor, and she was recently Education Producer for the Southbank Centre. Lily is also a Pilates and fitness coach, and Trauma Informed Practitioner. She is currently studying arts psychotherapy and looking at how to combine her knowledge of trauma and mental health with movement and dance.
“I have previously turned to DCD for one-off coaching or advice sessions and always found their team an invaluable source of support. I am at a turning point in my career where I am looking for guidance in how to bring all my skills and knowledge together and carve something out that is uniquely mine. I applied to Beyond Dance because I feel I need some extra guidance and confidence in figuring this out, and I trust the expertise and care of the DCD team.”
Click here to read bio.
Bettina is an independent choreographer, dance artist and practitioner, and Co-Director of Company Carpi. After graduating from London Contemporary Dance School she performed and worked with many dance companies and choreographers, including CandoCo Dance Company (2003-2011), Marc Brew, Annie Pui Ling Lok and Arthur Pita. Upon completing an MA in Dance (supported by DCD) Bettina co-founded Company Carpi with husband and composer Gary Lloyd, to give expression to their collaborative work: combining dance with live music and other art forms. Alongside Company Carpi she teaches and facilitates dance extensively in various educational, community and health & wellbeing settings.
“Whilst I have worked in dance over many years, I’m keen to build on my impact and reach as a facilitator, artist and leader. With this mentorship programme I’m hoping to grow more confident in my leadership and business skills, being able to create stronger, more strategic and effective positive change for dance and other art forms longer-term, so that many more people can engage with, participate in, and enjoy dance and all the wonderful benefits that come with it.”
Han is a London-based commercial dancer, choreographer and teacher working across stage, screen and creative projects. Her work is driven by musicality, precision and emotional connection, shaped by over ten years of teaching and informed by a background in behavioural science. Rather than following a traditional college route, she has developed her practice through professional training and industry experience. Han runs an adult open class, LoveDance, tutors dancers one-to-one, and is focused on touring with artists on large-scale productions and expanding into creative direction.
“I’m very much an “ideas person”, but navigating the performing arts industry, after being raised in the corporate world, has presented some challenges, particularly as I became a professional dancer later than many. Having successfully made the jump into performing, I’m now ready for the next level to be illuminated and need help turning ideas into consistent, practical action. I applied for the Beyond Dance mentoring programme because I want guidance in making strategic choices, strengthening my professional presence, and navigating the industry with intention and confidence.”
Lily trained at London Contemporary Dance School and worked with companies including DV8 and choreographer Estelle Clareton. She taught dance for organisations including The Place, DanceEast and The Royal Ballet, teaching from early years to vocational students and older adults. As a Learning & Participation Manager she has developed programmes including Rambert’s Dance for Parkinson’s, youth projects for Studio Wayne McGregor, and she was recently Education Producer for the Southbank Centre. Lily is also a Pilates and fitness coach, and Trauma Informed Practitioner. She is currently studying arts psychotherapy and looking at how to combine her knowledge of trauma and mental health with movement and dance.
“I have previously turned to DCD for one-off coaching or advice sessions and always found their team an invaluable source of support. I am at a turning point in my career where I am looking for guidance in how to bring all my skills and knowledge together and carve something out that is uniquely mine. I applied to Beyond Dance because I feel I need some extra guidance and confidence in figuring this out, and I trust the expertise and care of the DCD team.”
Click here to read bio.
Inês Duarte
Inês is taking part in Beyond Dance Mentoring as a part of SHIFT Hip Hop.
“Participating in the DCD Mentoring Programme through SHIFT will support my development both personally and professionally at a critical moment in my career. I am eager to explore new directions beyond traditional dance, particularly in leveraging videography, storytelling, and digital content to connect with audiences in innovative ways.
Working with a mentor from outside the dance sector can challenge my perspectives, help me recognise my unique strengths, and develop my leadership potential in both artistic and entrepreneurial contexts. I want to develop a versatile skill set that allows me to create an independent, sustainable, and adaptable professional life. Having a mentor at this moment will help me gain clarity around my future pathways, refine my goals, and develop strategies to achieve them.”
Click here to read bio.
James Fogerty
James is taking part in Beyond Dance Mentoring as a part of SHIFT Hip Hop.
“I’ve had informal mentors throughout my career, but these have mostly been within my existing networks. I now need a more formal and structured mentoring relationship — one that offers new perspectives, constructive challenge, and guidance on building a career that goes beyond dance performance.
The reality is that sustaining my work in its current form is taking a toll. I’m balancing artistic direction, delivery, fundraising, and admin, often on uncertain timelines and budgets. I’ve built a 20-year track record, but the pressure to keep everything going without a clear long-term strategy is exhausting and leaves little space for professional development. The risk is that I’ll spend all my energy keeping things running, with no capacity left to grow.
With the right mentoring relationship, I can make informed choices about my next steps and move forward with dignity, clarity, and confidence.”
Click here to read bio.
August Generalli
August was born in New Zealand and brought up in New York. He trained in New York City at Ellison Ballet before starting his career with Boston Ballet. He currently works with Birmingham Royal Ballet, where he has been for the past eight years and has had the pleasure to have performed a wide range of works and has enjoyed many of the classics.
“Moving away from dance, something you have known your whole life, can be quite scary; but given the opportunity to explore and work on building a life away from it can also be exciting. I feel like I’m at a point in my life where I’m looking for new challenges and opportunities, and I’m looking forward to that process and journey.”
Click here to read bio.
Robyn Holder
Robyn is a freelance dance artist who graduated from London Contemporary Dance School in 2013. She has over a decade of experience as a versatile portfolio artist, working as a performer, choreographer, facilitator and producer. Robyn has collaborated with a wide range of artists and organisations, including Glyndebourne Opera, The Royal Opera House, East London Music Group and Grove Productions. She is a founding member of Feet off the Ground, a female-led collective creating transformative and accessible outdoor dance productions that explore socio-political themes through a feminist lens.
“After 12 years working in the industry, my priorities have shifted. I am seeking ways to use the skills I have developed to build a more stable and sustainable career, while remaining within the creative arts. Navigating this transition can feel overwhelming, and I recognise the value of support during this process. I have always thrived in collaborative environments, and I believe working with a mentor – someone with distinct experience and insight – will allow me to reflect, exchange ideas and gain the confidence needed to move towards my goals.”
Inês is taking part in Beyond Dance Mentoring as a part of SHIFT Hip Hop.
“Participating in the DCD Mentoring Programme through SHIFT will support my development both personally and professionally at a critical moment in my career. I am eager to explore new directions beyond traditional dance, particularly in leveraging videography, storytelling, and digital content to connect with audiences in innovative ways.
Working with a mentor from outside the dance sector can challenge my perspectives, help me recognise my unique strengths, and develop my leadership potential in both artistic and entrepreneurial contexts. I want to develop a versatile skill set that allows me to create an independent, sustainable, and adaptable professional life. Having a mentor at this moment will help me gain clarity around my future pathways, refine my goals, and develop strategies to achieve them.”
James is taking part in Beyond Dance Mentoring as a part of SHIFT Hip Hop.
“I’ve had informal mentors throughout my career, but these have mostly been within my existing networks. I now need a more formal and structured mentoring relationship — one that offers new perspectives, constructive challenge, and guidance on building a career that goes beyond dance performance.
The reality is that sustaining my work in its current form is taking a toll. I’m balancing artistic direction, delivery, fundraising, and admin, often on uncertain timelines and budgets. I’ve built a 20-year track record, but the pressure to keep everything going without a clear long-term strategy is exhausting and leaves little space for professional development. The risk is that I’ll spend all my energy keeping things running, with no capacity left to grow.
With the right mentoring relationship, I can make informed choices about my next steps and move forward with dignity, clarity, and confidence.”
August was born in New Zealand and brought up in New York. He trained in New York City at Ellison Ballet before starting his career with Boston Ballet. He currently works with Birmingham Royal Ballet, where he has been for the past eight years and has had the pleasure to have performed a wide range of works and has enjoyed many of the classics.
“Moving away from dance, something you have known your whole life, can be quite scary; but given the opportunity to explore and work on building a life away from it can also be exciting. I feel like I’m at a point in my life where I’m looking for new challenges and opportunities, and I’m looking forward to that process and journey.”
Robyn is a freelance dance artist who graduated from London Contemporary Dance School in 2013. She has over a decade of experience as a versatile portfolio artist, working as a performer, choreographer, facilitator and producer. Robyn has collaborated with a wide range of artists and organisations, including Glyndebourne Opera, The Royal Opera House, East London Music Group and Grove Productions. She is a founding member of Feet off the Ground, a female-led collective creating transformative and accessible outdoor dance productions that explore socio-political themes through a feminist lens.
“After 12 years working in the industry, my priorities have shifted. I am seeking ways to use the skills I have developed to build a more stable and sustainable career, while remaining within the creative arts. Navigating this transition can feel overwhelming, and I recognise the value of support during this process. I have always thrived in collaborative environments, and I believe working with a mentor – someone with distinct experience and insight – will allow me to reflect, exchange ideas and gain the confidence needed to move towards my goals.”
Click here to read bio.
Carina Howard
Carina graduated from Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance with a first class BA (Hons) degree, then completed her MA at Northern School of Contemporary Dance with a Distinction. She has been a company dancer with Mark Bruce Company, Phoenix Dance Theatre and Yorke Dance Project and has worked with choreographers including Christopher Bruce, Liam Francis, Gemma Payne, Miguel Altunaga, Alexandra Reynolds, Monique Jonas and Dane Hurst. Other dance credits include Warner Bros, Netflix, Glastonbury and BBC. Carina’s work extends into Movement Direction as well as Creative Movement Therapy for patients with Parkinson’s.
“I applied for the Beyond Dance mentoring programme as I am keen for advice from an experienced professional on how to make the transition from a dance career into a corporate role. I believe I have a lot to offer but with such a unique and unconventional background am so grateful to be able to receive advice and guidance from someone working in the industry I’m looking to move into. I hope they can help me present myself in a way that shows employers what being a dancer brings – resilience, determination, being a quick learner and very hard working!”
Click here to read bio.
Hannah Kidd
Hannah has performed for many renowned choreographers, notably Richard Alston Dance Company, Merce Cunningham Company, Russell Maliphant, New Movement Collective, Didy Veldman, Ashley Page and Mark Bruce Company. 2012 & 2016 saw Hannah nominated for the National Dance Award’s Outstanding Female Performer. She was an original cast member for Bruce’s Dracula, winner of the Sky Arts South Bank Award 2014.
Alongside performing Hannah has taught in many of the UK’s dance conservatoires including The Royal Ballet School, LCDS, RCS, Rambert School, Central School of Ballet and at Trinity Laban, as well as for Company Wayne Macgregor, Rambert, Richard Alston Dance Company, Protein, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures and Mark Bruce Company. In 2019 Hannah was commissioned to create the Rambert Grades Syllabi, where she is now Head of Education and Examinations. Alongside this, Hannah lead’s the artistic vision of Rambert School Prevocational programmes.
“The Beyond Mentoring Programme offers a valuable opportunity to engage with mentors from diverse industries and explore new approaches to leadership, growth and career sustainability beyond the dance sector. As an ex-performer and current dance educator and leader, I’m eager to challenge my perspectives, refine my leadership style and strengthen my confidence in navigating change. The programme’s reflective and individualised nature aligns with my values as an educator who supports others’ development. I see this as an opportunity to invest in my own growth and evolve with authenticity, clarity and purpose in the next stage of my professional journey.”
Click here to read bio.
Kavina Pound
Kavina is an older, disabled dancer, parent and carer. She has worked in inclusive dance for many years, teaching with Slide and Biodanza, is in the Tramshed Steering Group for Disabled Artists, dances with Corali and regularly performs with Freestylers. Kavina and her daughter have an inclusive dance brand, Danzability. She has recently graduated from the Access all Areas Performance Making Diploma and has always been involved in Disability advocacy and arts, speaking on panels and talks including her 2024 Artist Archive event at SDS, speaking on her journey as a Disabled, older dancer.
“I applied to Beyond Dance mentoring because I want to expand and develop my knowledge, experience and career opportunities within the arts. I want to explore new career paths that have opened up to me, such as advocacy, consultation and acting as a community connector. My age, disability and caring responsibilities can limit the options open to me but I want to show people what I can do.”
Click here to read bio.
Adam John Roberts
Adam is a multidisciplinary dance artist with an MA and BA (Hons) in Dance from Liverpool John Moore University. Founder of Labelled? Dance Theatre & Film, his choreographic credits include BE (commissioned by Dance Syndrome, 2025) and The Peacemaker (subject to ACE DYCP funding, 2024). Performance highlights include Unmute Dance Company’s uMoya (2023) and the BBC Showcase with Strictly Come Dancing and the Backstreet Boys. Adam is skilled in contemporary, ballet, jazz and musical theatre styles, and also proficient in ice-skating, social media marketing, web development and film editing.
“I wish to write my own book about my journey as a dancer with cognitive learning difficulties. I see my current position, as a choreographer/performer/blogger of my own company, developing into a managerial role of a Co-Artistic Director. Through the Beyond Dance programme not only do I wish to explore transitioning from artist to artistic leader, but also sustaining my portfolio career, developing my writing practice, publishing, building a long-term career strategy, neurodivergent leadership in the arts and how to grow a company as a Co-Artistic Director.”
Carina graduated from Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance with a first class BA (Hons) degree, then completed her MA at Northern School of Contemporary Dance with a Distinction. She has been a company dancer with Mark Bruce Company, Phoenix Dance Theatre and Yorke Dance Project and has worked with choreographers including Christopher Bruce, Liam Francis, Gemma Payne, Miguel Altunaga, Alexandra Reynolds, Monique Jonas and Dane Hurst. Other dance credits include Warner Bros, Netflix, Glastonbury and BBC. Carina’s work extends into Movement Direction as well as Creative Movement Therapy for patients with Parkinson’s.
“I applied for the Beyond Dance mentoring programme as I am keen for advice from an experienced professional on how to make the transition from a dance career into a corporate role. I believe I have a lot to offer but with such a unique and unconventional background am so grateful to be able to receive advice and guidance from someone working in the industry I’m looking to move into. I hope they can help me present myself in a way that shows employers what being a dancer brings – resilience, determination, being a quick learner and very hard working!”
Hannah has performed for many renowned choreographers, notably Richard Alston Dance Company, Merce Cunningham Company, Russell Maliphant, New Movement Collective, Didy Veldman, Ashley Page and Mark Bruce Company. 2012 & 2016 saw Hannah nominated for the National Dance Award’s Outstanding Female Performer. She was an original cast member for Bruce’s Dracula, winner of the Sky Arts South Bank Award 2014.
Alongside performing Hannah has taught in many of the UK’s dance conservatoires including The Royal Ballet School, LCDS, RCS, Rambert School, Central School of Ballet and at Trinity Laban, as well as for Company Wayne Macgregor, Rambert, Richard Alston Dance Company, Protein, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures and Mark Bruce Company. In 2019 Hannah was commissioned to create the Rambert Grades Syllabi, where she is now Head of Education and Examinations. Alongside this, Hannah lead’s the artistic vision of Rambert School Prevocational programmes.
“The Beyond Mentoring Programme offers a valuable opportunity to engage with mentors from diverse industries and explore new approaches to leadership, growth and career sustainability beyond the dance sector. As an ex-performer and current dance educator and leader, I’m eager to challenge my perspectives, refine my leadership style and strengthen my confidence in navigating change. The programme’s reflective and individualised nature aligns with my values as an educator who supports others’ development. I see this as an opportunity to invest in my own growth and evolve with authenticity, clarity and purpose in the next stage of my professional journey.”
Kavina is an older, disabled dancer, parent and carer. She has worked in inclusive dance for many years, teaching with Slide and Biodanza, is in the Tramshed Steering Group for Disabled Artists, dances with Corali and regularly performs with Freestylers. Kavina and her daughter have an inclusive dance brand, Danzability. She has recently graduated from the Access all Areas Performance Making Diploma and has always been involved in Disability advocacy and arts, speaking on panels and talks including her 2024 Artist Archive event at SDS, speaking on her journey as a Disabled, older dancer.
“I applied to Beyond Dance mentoring because I want to expand and develop my knowledge, experience and career opportunities within the arts. I want to explore new career paths that have opened up to me, such as advocacy, consultation and acting as a community connector. My age, disability and caring responsibilities can limit the options open to me but I want to show people what I can do.”
Adam is a multidisciplinary dance artist with an MA and BA (Hons) in Dance from Liverpool John Moore University. Founder of Labelled? Dance Theatre & Film, his choreographic credits include BE (commissioned by Dance Syndrome, 2025) and The Peacemaker (subject to ACE DYCP funding, 2024). Performance highlights include Unmute Dance Company’s uMoya (2023) and the BBC Showcase with Strictly Come Dancing and the Backstreet Boys. Adam is skilled in contemporary, ballet, jazz and musical theatre styles, and also proficient in ice-skating, social media marketing, web development and film editing.
“I wish to write my own book about my journey as a dancer with cognitive learning difficulties. I see my current position, as a choreographer/performer/blogger of my own company, developing into a managerial role of a Co-Artistic Director. Through the Beyond Dance programme not only do I wish to explore transitioning from artist to artistic leader, but also sustaining my portfolio career, developing my writing practice, publishing, building a long-term career strategy, neurodivergent leadership in the arts and how to grow a company as a Co-Artistic Director.”
Click here to read bio.
Sophie Thorpe
Sophie is a contemporary dancer, choreographer and facilitator based in Nottingham. She is Co-Founder of Feet off the Ground, a female-led collective who make touring work for outdoors. Sophie is the Rehearsal Director and Participation Lead for Tom Dale Company, regularly making choreographic works for the company. She has performed extensively across the UK and Nordic countries and for the last decade has worked across the professional, education and community sectors.
“I applied for the Beyond Dance mentoring programme to gain guidance and support as I scale my from-home massage business while starting a family! Having a mentor will provide valuable insights, help me navigate challenges and offer a fresh perspective on developing the business, which is something I’m not so experienced in. I’m excited to implement new systems, grow my client base and approach the year ahead with confidence and clarity.”
Click here to read bio.
Jatie Tucker
Jatie is a contemporary dance artist, educator and choreographer who trained at Rambert School and London Contemporary Dance School. Performing credits include: Richard Alston Dance Company, Charlotte Edmonds, Arielle Smith and INALA’s Original West End Cast and Asia Tour. Jatie has a portfolio of teaching across secondary, further, SEND, vocational and higher education. She is a recognised Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and currently undergoing accreditation as a Teacher of Cunningham Technique®. Her choreographic practice centres trans experiences, through interdisciplinary collaboration with a focus on creating movement for wearable sculptures, and teetering the line between beauty and grotesque.
“I want to carve out a career that leaves a legacy and contributes to a dance industry that is more diverse, accessible and excellent; while honouring history and shaping new futures. I applied to Beyond Dance after being made redundant left me with a loss of identity and self-esteem. I’m currently in a period of exploring how best to frame my experience and identify pathways I want to pursue. I hope the programme will help rebuild my confidence and challenge me meaningfully to build a future where my identity, values and work are aligned in clear confidence and purpose.”
Click here to read bio.
Harriet Waghorn
Harriet is a London-based interdisciplinary artist, director and choreographer working in contemporary dance and movement-led performance for stage, film and digital platforms. Her practice fuses contemporary dance and ballroom with research-driven storytelling, exploring intimacy, human connection and power through the body. Her work has been presented internationally and on screen, including collaborations with Netflix, Vice and Nowness. She is Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of EDIFICE and was selected for artistic development with Akram Khan Company. She trained at Trinity Laban.
“I applied to the Beyond Dance mentoring programme as I want to expand my practice beyond physical dance into cross-disciplinary and emerging mediums within the creative industries. At this stage in my career, I am seeking clarity of direction and focused industry insight to support both my artistic development and long-term financial sustainability. I hope the programme will help me deepen my chosen areas of practice, understand how to position my work across new platforms, and gain informed guidance on building a sustainable future path that integrates creative authorship with professional stability.”
Click here to read bio.
Chaldon Williams
Chaldon is taking part in Beyond Dance Mentoring as a part of SHIFT Hip Hop.
“I see the DCD Mentoring Programme as an invaluable opportunity to gain personalised guidance from someone who has successfully navigated the creative industries. While I have already built a strong foundation of transferable skills from my career in dance, I recognise the importance of learning from someone with lived experience in my target field who can help me refine my direction.
A mentor will provide perspective on how to position myself in a competitive market, build a sustainable business model, and expand my network within the film and media industries. Having a mentor at this stage will give me clarity, accountability and encouragement, ensuring I make informed, strategic choices that set a strong foundation for success.
By combining this mentoring with my planned training and practical experience, I will be able to bridge the gap between my dance career and my ambitions in videography and film, creating a career path that is both creatively fulfilling and financially sustainable.”
Sophie is a contemporary dancer, choreographer and facilitator based in Nottingham. She is Co-Founder of Feet off the Ground, a female-led collective who make touring work for outdoors. Sophie is the Rehearsal Director and Participation Lead for Tom Dale Company, regularly making choreographic works for the company. She has performed extensively across the UK and Nordic countries and for the last decade has worked across the professional, education and community sectors.
“I applied for the Beyond Dance mentoring programme to gain guidance and support as I scale my from-home massage business while starting a family! Having a mentor will provide valuable insights, help me navigate challenges and offer a fresh perspective on developing the business, which is something I’m not so experienced in. I’m excited to implement new systems, grow my client base and approach the year ahead with confidence and clarity.”
Jatie is a contemporary dance artist, educator and choreographer who trained at Rambert School and London Contemporary Dance School. Performing credits include: Richard Alston Dance Company, Charlotte Edmonds, Arielle Smith and INALA’s Original West End Cast and Asia Tour. Jatie has a portfolio of teaching across secondary, further, SEND, vocational and higher education. She is a recognised Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and currently undergoing accreditation as a Teacher of Cunningham Technique®. Her choreographic practice centres trans experiences, through interdisciplinary collaboration with a focus on creating movement for wearable sculptures, and teetering the line between beauty and grotesque.
“I want to carve out a career that leaves a legacy and contributes to a dance industry that is more diverse, accessible and excellent; while honouring history and shaping new futures. I applied to Beyond Dance after being made redundant left me with a loss of identity and self-esteem. I’m currently in a period of exploring how best to frame my experience and identify pathways I want to pursue. I hope the programme will help rebuild my confidence and challenge me meaningfully to build a future where my identity, values and work are aligned in clear confidence and purpose.”
Harriet is a London-based interdisciplinary artist, director and choreographer working in contemporary dance and movement-led performance for stage, film and digital platforms. Her practice fuses contemporary dance and ballroom with research-driven storytelling, exploring intimacy, human connection and power through the body. Her work has been presented internationally and on screen, including collaborations with Netflix, Vice and Nowness. She is Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of EDIFICE and was selected for artistic development with Akram Khan Company. She trained at Trinity Laban.
“I applied to the Beyond Dance mentoring programme as I want to expand my practice beyond physical dance into cross-disciplinary and emerging mediums within the creative industries. At this stage in my career, I am seeking clarity of direction and focused industry insight to support both my artistic development and long-term financial sustainability. I hope the programme will help me deepen my chosen areas of practice, understand how to position my work across new platforms, and gain informed guidance on building a sustainable future path that integrates creative authorship with professional stability.”
Chaldon is taking part in Beyond Dance Mentoring as a part of SHIFT Hip Hop.
“I see the DCD Mentoring Programme as an invaluable opportunity to gain personalised guidance from someone who has successfully navigated the creative industries. While I have already built a strong foundation of transferable skills from my career in dance, I recognise the importance of learning from someone with lived experience in my target field who can help me refine my direction.
A mentor will provide perspective on how to position myself in a competitive market, build a sustainable business model, and expand my network within the film and media industries. Having a mentor at this stage will give me clarity, accountability and encouragement, ensuring I make informed, strategic choices that set a strong foundation for success.
By combining this mentoring with my planned training and practical experience, I will be able to bridge the gap between my dance career and my ambitions in videography and film, creating a career path that is both creatively fulfilling and financially sustainable.”
FEEDBACK FROM PREVIOUS Beyond Dance MENTEES
‘ I cannot express just how life changing it has been.’
‘It has been challenging and has encouraged a leap out of my comfort zones. Meetings with my mentor were always inspiring and energising.’
‘I feel incredibly fortunate to have participated in the Beyond Dance Mentorship Programme and know I’m in a much stronger position now than I was at the outset. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to my fellow dancers.’
‘…when two people connect and are open to learn from one another. I want to cultivate this feeling for future collaborations. Conversation, exchange and honesty are crucial in any relationship. This has made me feel accompanied on many levels.’
‘Mentoring has given me the confidence to talk about areas of my life both personal and professional which I was ignoring. Which was getting in the way of my enjoyment and progress.’
‘[My mentor] made me realise my transferable skills and how they’re relevant.’
‘It was an incredible experience that went way beyond my expectations.’
“This programme is brilliant! It is such a privilege to have regular mentoring sessions. It is also really important that the mentors of the programme are selected by DCD. My mentor is highly experienced and has supported me to find a focus in a period of chaos. Through insightful discussions, she helped me recognise the extensive experience I have accumulated over the years, reframing it as a valuable “portfolio career.” This shift empowered me to embrace all my skills and experiences.
Furthermore, my mentor coached me on how to confidently communicate my value proposition. With her guidance, I began attending networking events and professional meetings, feeling self-assured and respected. I am incredibly grateful for her guidance and support.”
Evangelia Kolyra
Beyond Dance mentee 2023-24
Photography: Eulanda Shead
Justyna Janiszewska
Beyond Dance mentee 2023-24
“The DCD Mentoring Beyond Dance programme was an invaluable lifeline during a challenging time. Feeling lost and uncertain after my injury, I found unwavering support and guidance. My mentor’s belief in my potential was instrumental in helping me rediscover my passions and see things from a new perspective.
Thanks to this support, I developed a personal toolkit of skills and experiences, transforming perceived weaknesses into strengths. It was a journey of self-discovery and resilience, reigniting my belief in my potential. I wholeheartedly recommend this programme to anyone seeking personal and professional growth.”
Previous mentors (beyond the creative sector) include:
- Chief Operating Officer for a division of the Investment Bank at Credit Suisse
- Director of Marketing, Sainsburys
- Director of Marketing, Nationwide (The Mortgage Works)
- Director of Customer, Commercial & Procurement, Southern Water
- CEO, Cromwell Hospital
- Global Head of Talent, Ocado Group
- Head of Delivery, Capita
- Vice President, Meta
- Co-Owner & Creative Director, Ferndale Hotels
- Head of Internal Communications, Ofcom
- Global Head of Ready-to-Drink, Costa Coffee
- Assistant Head of Information Services, The British Army
- Chief Finance Officer, Leeds Building Society
Get in touch
For any questions, support needs or to request an informal conversation with a member of the DCD Relationship Management team about the Beyond Dance Mentoring for Dancers programme, please contact dancers@thedcd.org.uk.
We also invite organisations who would like to be involved in mentoring and supporting this programme to please contact dancers@thedcd.org.uk to register your interest.
Click here to check out our other programmes and events coming up.
Banner image: Nandita Shankardass Dancer, Choreographer,
Teacher, Facilitator,
Royal Ballet School Alumni, DCD EDI Working Group member. Photography: Simon Richardson.
Get in touch image: Sherisse Bisram, Dancer, Choreographer. Photography: Laura Belcher.
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