How to Start a Collective

An In=Person Workshop for Creative Entrepreneurs

Building together is powerful. This panel brings together creative leaders who have successfully joined collectives across disciplines. Join us for a dynamic conversation on how to form and sustain a collective that amplifies shared vision and impact. Attendees will gain insight into the structures, lessons, and relationships that foster collaborative creativity.

Creative collectives can be transformative: they share resources, boost visibility, expand opportunities, and build community power. But how exactly do they get started? What structures are effective? And how can you sustain them over time?

Join us for a lively, honest conversation led by practitioners who have done the work. Through real-world examples and open discussion, you’ll discover what fuels collaborative creativity and how to build a collective rooted in shared purpose and lasting impact.

What You’ll Learn

Attendees will gain insight into:

• How to form a collective that reflects shared goals and values
• Structures and models that support collaborative work
• Roles, expectations, and group norms that lead to healthy, productive partnerships
• Lessons learned from successful creative collectives
• Strategies to sustain the work, resolve challenges, and grow together
• Relationship-building practices that strengthen collective power

Who Should Attend

Artists, cultural workers, creative entrepreneurs, community organizers, makers, and anyone exploring collective models or collaborative art-making.

💡 Space is limited — register today!

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATORS

April Williams, CEO, Kennedy Consulting Group

April Williams is a seasoned communications strategist, former gubernatorial appointee, and award-winning entrepreneur with more than 15 years of experience in government, corporate, and community engagement. She has led strategic communications for the Maryland Governor’s Office, developed large-scale engagement strategies for diverse audiences, and served as Communications Coordinator for the Haiti We Hear You campaign. As founder of The Media Collective and creator/host of "The Entrepreneurious Show," April has built a reputation for amplifying voices, fostering meaningful connections, and delivering creative, impactful solutions rooted in service and excellence.

Taevon Bradley, CEO, StraightWay Media

With 4 years of experience as a CEO and 6 years in the industry, Taevon is passionate about telling impactful stories. Before founding StraightWay Media, Taevon managed media production and live streaming at churches, leading up to COVID, reaching over 2 million people. Besides being a CEO, Taevon dedicates his time to teaching and mentoring those around him. Experience: Over 4 years in video storytelling, specializing in engaging corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors, and overseeing the completion of 40 projects in the past year.

Thank you to our sponsors for supporting this workshop.