Rooted in Community: Meet the Inaugural National Arts Futures Fellows and Coaches

Creative West, in partnership with South Arts, is honored to welcome the inaugural National Arts Futures Fellowship cohort. After a deeply considered selection process, this inspiring group of early and mid-career leaders from across the arts and culture field has joined us—each bringing steadfast dedication to building a more just, inclusive and vibrant future for the arts.

The National Arts Futures Fellowship is a six-month journey rooted in care, community, democracy, wellness and belonging. Fellows embark on personal action projects to generate meaningful impact in their own communities, supported along the way by mentorship and connection with a growing peer network. These projects are more than assignments—they’re invitations to engage honestly with what change means, how growth happens, and what it looks like to lead with heart.

Guidance for these fellows comes from a coaching team of five visionary leaders, all alumni of Creative West and South Arts programs. Their work stretches beyond traditional mentorship: they anchor the fellowship in trust, empathy, and authenticity, offering individualized support, monthly reflection, and facilitation that weaves wellness and community into every stage of learning. Their presence cultivates a space where risks feel safer, challenges can spark dialogue, and each participant’s sense of belonging is valued.

We celebrate every fellow and coach for their willingness to embrace complexity, nurture growth, and contribute to a national community rooted in hope, imagination and creativity.

Ready to meet the awardees and coaches?

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