IADT hosted the capstone event for participants of DL154 “Postgraduate Certificate in Strategic Development for Creative Professionals”, in Old Carnegie Library DLR on June 28th 2025. This event marked the culmination of a unique course equipping creative professionals to plan, grow, and sustain their careers with clarity and purpose. Developed collaboratively by Cultural and Creative Industries Skillnet and CFA at IADT, the Certificate in Strategic Development for Creative Professionals is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union and addresses a recognised need within the creative sector.

Creative professionals come in many guises, from actors, artists, producers and designers to educators, makers, and those in the process of uncovering how creativity can shape their professional path. This part-time postgraduate course is designed for anyone with a creative soul who wants to develop or refine a strategy for their practice or business, and to take the next step in transforming their passion into a more purposeful, sustainable, or commercial venture.

During opening remarks Fόla O’Grady (Lecturer, IADT) described the course as “a journey of joy, creativity and purpose, grounded in a deep understanding of personal values”. She explained how a core intention of the course was to provide an integrated and supportive framework to help participants navigate their professional creative paths; aiming not to constrain or alter their creativity but to embrace all that they are and can become, confidently accessing and asserting their true potential.  

Bernie McCoy (Lecturer, NCAD) reinforced the value of examining creative processes and practice, highlighting that small, intentional changes can lead to meaningful outcomes and significant returns. She praised the diverse cohort and the richness of weekly debates – joking that some of the class discussions may have gone on “far too long!”. 

For the capstone assessment, each participant was tasked with developing and delivering a professional pitch, presenting a business concept or strategic direction. The brief required students to express their creative identity with clarity, while demonstrating practical insight and strategic intent. They delivered with gusto and with brilliance – even if some presentations went on “far too long”. Next year’s event might be replete with an Oscars-style orchestra ready to play speakers off stage!

The panel of invited experts – including leading creative producers, financiers, and industry mentors – brought valuable real-world insight. Master of Ceremonies Anna Nolan (Series Producer, Coco Television and Chair, National LGBT Federation) steered the day with warmth and wit, support by Caroline Custy (Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Local Enterprise Office) and Martin Murray (CEO, Furthr).

The historic venue contributed to a strong sense of ceremony and shared witness, while practical feedback praised the sensory-friendly environment: 

“There was great sound, not too loud. The room was not too hot or cold or overcrowded. The lighting was good, also. There was no shine on the tv screen. The chairs were also sensory-friendly. So well done!” 

Asked to reflect on their journey, participants spoke candidly about how the course shaped their creative direction and confidence: 

“We stripped back everything about ourselves to find out what our core values and beliefs were, and that’s what allowed me to figure out what I should be pursuing, and what my real passions are”.

“Instead of just being a creative individual…be a creative professional”.

“It’s good to have these skills… they stick with you forever. Finance will always be here, Law will always be here, and so will Creative. It’s good to know all three’. 

“To learn the tools and mechanisms to protect ourselves and ensure that we can make it a viable business…and our skills can be valued…I think is really important”. 

“The course helped me carve out space to think about myself as a professional, how I do what I do, but more importantly, why I do what I do – and how I’m going to apply that into new areas”. 

“It’s given me a new lease of life, and a lot of confidence as well. I would have questioned if I was able to do it, but now I know I can”.

As Rόnán O’Muirthile (Head of Faculty, IADT) closed out the proceedings, there was a strong sense of momentum and possibility in the room – testament to the commitment, creativity, and ambition of everyone involved. Heartfelt thanks go to the lecturers, mentors, industry panel, and guest contributors who helped shape this year’s programme, and above all, to the participants whose energy and openness made it truly distinctive. And finally, immense gratitude to Elena Somoza (CFA Project co-ordinator) for all her help behind the scenes throughout the programme. 

We look forward with excitement to the next iteration of the course, where a new group of creative professionals will begin their own strategic journey – ready to turn ideas into action and passion into purpose. Applications are now open HERE