The Open Road Carnival
The carnival that's making a difference...
Kai has just completed his level 3 "Events Assistant" Apprenticeship and we're delighted that he will be staying on within our team
Hey Kai, congratulations on your recent Distinction in your apprenticeship! Could you start by telling us what made you interested in events?
I have been going to events for my entire life, whether that’s my first Festival at just a few months old, the countless Carnival Processions watched from my great-grandma’s flat in Sandown, or my first ever Fire Show with Ryde Extreme Performers for Bonfire Night in 2012.
When I saw there was an apprenticeship position available for not one but two of the Isle of Wight’s leadings arts organisations (Ventnor Exchange and New Carnival), I simply could not let it pass me by. A shared apprenticeship is not something I’d seen before and I was really intrigued by the opportunity to work for two companies at once. I had always enjoyed visiting Ventnor Fringe and the exchange, and I had only recently had the privilege of working with New Carnival on their Dark Skies event as a circus performer.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your apprenticeship?
Something I absolutely love about working in events is, after working for months on all the planning, paperwork and meetings. Being at the event and seeing the public’s reactions is such a magical feeling. For example, this year was the second time I’ve been involved in organising mini-Mardi Gras and seeing the looks on the children’s faces as they excitedly tell their parents about how they’ve learnt how to spin a plate, or made their own carnival headdress is very rewarding indeed.
Can you share a memorable moment or project from your apprenticeship that you’re particularly proud of?
My final project for my apprenticeship qualification was “Tropic Fire!” Which was a Fire and Circus performer showcase at Ventnor Fringe earlier this year. I was extremely proud to be able to provide some of my best friends with the opportunity to join me in performing to an audience that were there exclusively to see us, and the fact that it was in a real-life circus tent was especially surreal to me and definitely an experience that will stick with me for a long time.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in the Arts?
I would say if anyone were on the fence about doing an apprenticeship in the arts industry you should absolutely go for it! The great thing about most apprenticeships is that you don’t necessarily need any experience, and unlike university where you can rack up huge amounts of student debt, you can earn whilst you learn!
The biggest piece of advice I would give to any new apprentice would be to ask lots of questions, especially when you are starting out. You are there to learn as well as do a job and you shouldn’t feel discouraged from asking your colleagues for help if you need it.