A NEW type of learning platform is offering free opportunities to young people on the Isle of Wight who are interested in a career in the creative industries.

Brave Island – an online platform created by Ventnor Exchange – provides mentoring, funding, experiences and training for 14- to 25-year-olds.  

The platform has announced ambitious plans to offer free opportunities every week this year.

Through regular posts, the site lists new opportunities to get involved, learn new skills, get free tickets to events or even paid jobs and commissions.

Opportunities currently open to apply for include the chance to work with an artist and take over an empty shop, a 48-hour film challenge supported by the BFI Film Academy, DJ lessons and a backstage tour and workshop with the technical manager of Kings Theatre in Southsea.

Every week is different, and every experience is free, with travel costs also included.

Creative director Jack Whitewood said: “During the pilot phase nearly 300 young people from across the Island signed up to Brave Island, demonstrating there is real interest and demand.

“Growing up on the Island, it can often feel like opportunities are hard to come by, and like any rural area it can be isolating.

“Through Brave Island we want to build a creative network of young people island-wide, helping bring people together and removing barriers that can make it hard to get your foot in the door.”

Anyone interested in finding out more can sign up at www.braveisland.uk to receive weekly notifications of opportunities on offer.