Youth Music has announced its expanded NextGen Community series for 2024, including new music industry networking events in partnership with Young Guns Network.

Designed to support emerging creatives across the UK, this year’s events will take place in Birmingham, Bristol and Glasgow. Attendees aged 18-30 will have the chance to connect with other creatives, take part in panel discussions and watch performances from peers.

The new partnership with Young Guns Network –  a professional network produced by and for young people in the music industry – will see four additional networking events take place at offices of some of the biggest music and culture brands.

The first event, in partnership with YGN and AWAL, will take place on Tuesday 30th January at Sony Music Entertainment’s AWAL office. Other sessions include Instagram practice for creatives with Meta, as well as working with brands like Levi’s. Tickets are £5 (but offered for free if finance is a barrier) via Youth Music’s website.

“As we celebrate Youth Music’s 25th anniversary year, we’re really excited to also grow our NextGen Community Series, reaching new cities and launching a new partnership with Young Guns Network,” said Cristina Barone, Youth Music’s Corporate and Events Manager. “All of this means a more diverse range of voices are entering and equipped for the music industries, benefitting both businesses and individuals who might otherwise be excluded.”

Remi Harris, Co-Founder at Young Guns Network added: “We’re delighted to be collaborating with Youth Music to bring young professionals into the offices of some of the most exciting music and culture brands. Our partnership with Youth Music goes back several years and we’re thrilled that they are helping us continue to bring these events to young people.”

Check out the full 2024 NextGen Community Event programme below.

Recent research by Youth Music found that 77% of emerging creatives cited a lack of industry connections as a barrier they are currently facing while pursuing a career in the music industries. The new partnership between the charity and Young Guns Network hopes to break down barriers that stop many from being able to break into the industry.

Last month, Youth Music announced the latest round of its NextGen Fund for aspiring creatives. Grants worth up to £2,500 are once again up for grabs, designed to help young musicians during the early stages of their career. Find out more here.