Event Four Announced for University Women In The Arts

The next University Women in the Arts public event has been announced: 'In Conversation' with Suzie de Rohan Willner, CEO of lifestyle brand TOAST, on February 2nd at 6pm.

Suzie is one of 15 women who has been selected to take part in the one off scheme 'University Women in the Arts' to impart her knowledge and advice on how to lead the way as a woman in this sector.

The event is particularly targeted at female students studying arts subjects at universities across the UK but is open to anyone who would like access to Suzie's advice.

During the event, TOAST and University Women in the Arts will announce a new competition for female students studying arts subjects at universities across the UK. Further details will be revealed on the night.

The free event can be booked at: https://universitywomeninthearts-suziederohanwillner.eventbrite.co.uk

Jennifer Tuckett, Director of University Women in the Arts, said: "We are delighted to be working with Suzie de Rohan Willner, CEO of TOAST, on our fourth University Women in the Arts event. I think one of the key points of interest will be looking at why so many women study the arts, but decide against pursuing it as a career, particularly when it comes to leadership roles. Suzie will be able to share her experience on the progression she has made, how she has achieved her successes, and the challenges and obstacles faced over the course of her career."

Suzie de Rohan Willner, CEO of TOAST said: "At TOAST, we celebrate thoughtful creative women and so it's a great honour to be invited to speak with young women looking to progress their careers in such an inspiring, dynamic industry. The scheme has recognised the challenges faced by women to secure senior roles in the arts, but I hope to empower the next generation to strive for these positions by sharing my own experiences."

University Women in the Arts is running in partnership with the Women of the Future Programme, the MA Dramatic Writing at Drama Centre London at Central Saint Martins, Writers at Work Productions, Oberon Books and in association with Tonic Theatre.

The scheme is inspired by the fact that many more women study the arts in the UK (for example 74% of students at the University of the Arts London, Europe's largest arts University, are female) but less women work in the arts, particularly in artistic and leadership roles. According to recent British Theatre Consortium figures, only 30% of professional playwrights are women and according to recent UAL figures, only 30% of professional artists in galleries in London are female.

Other University Women in the Arts mentors include Tamara Rojo, Artistic Director of the English National Ballet, Jude Kelly, founder of the WOW Festivals and Artistic Director of the Southbank Centre, Joanna Prior, Managing Director of Penguin Books, Charlotte Higgins, Chief Culture Writer at The Guardian, Kate Bryan, art historian, presenter and former Director of The Fine Art Society, Elizabeth Freestone, Artistic Director of Pentabus Theatre Company, Tanya Seghatchian, film producer, Vicky Featherstone, Artistic Director of The Royal Court Theatre and historian, columnist and presenter Amanda Foreman.

For more information and to join the mailing list to be kept informed of future events please go to: www.universitywomeninthearts.com