Q&A with Lauren, our Executive Director

Lauren has worked at Kazzum for over 12 years, beginning as a volunteer and working her way through the organisation until she became the Executive Director and Co-CEO in 2017. In July 2025 Lauren will be leaving Kazzum to take up a new role elsewhere, but before she goes we thought we would ask her to reflect on her time with the organisation and find out what she’s learnt over the years.

What initially drew you to Kazzum Arts?

I was drawn to Kazzum’s commitment to inclusive practice and their site specific productions for young audiences.

What can you remember about your first day with Kazzum?

Eek I can’t LOL! I do remember the interview as I was going to a Kings of Leon concert in Hyde park, so I turned up in wellies.

What has been your top 3 highlights whilst working at Kazzum Arts?

1.     Working with incredible people and sharing a belief in the power of the arts to transform lives. 

2.     My involvement in Brighter Futures – Seeing young people thrive and eating round the table.

3.     Kazzum becoming recognised as a leader in trauma informed participatory arts with children and young people (CYP).

How have you seen the organisation change?

Kazzum has had many iterations but has always held children and young people at the heart of what it does.

During my time at Kazzum the organisation has moved away from being audience-focussed and instead prioritised participatory projects with young people. This has enabled greater opportunities for co-production, change and impact.

What has been your biggest challenge at Kazzum Arts?

Navigating change! Changes to funding, people, partners, the economy and the environment. When we say no day is the same, we really mean no day is the same.

You have shaped so many different parts of the organisation. What are you most proud of having implemented at Kazzum Arts?

Why thank you! Hard to choose one thing…

Creating and embedding a culture which nurtures, supports and centres the voices and experiences of CYP and values its people.

Leading on the evolution of the Pathways programme and engagement in Refugee week which has seen thousands of CYP engage, learn and share.

Being part of Kazzum’s trauma-informed journey and leading on operational changes to embed the approach within the organisation.

What advice would you give to your younger self navigating the role of Executive Director for the first time?

·      Quality over quantity – It’s not about the numbers your reach or how many workshops you deliver. It’s about the impact you have in spaces with CYP.

·      Collaboration is key – whether it’s with CYP, partners, staff or trustees, holding space to collaborate encourages shared understanding, passion and connection.

·      Listen and learn – You might not always get it right but embrace opportunities to learn.

·      Trust your gut – intuition can help with quick decision making, navigating complex situations and often enhances creativity.  

What is the biggest learning that you will take away from your time at Kazzum Arts?

The power of creativity as a tool for healing, connection and advocacy. Working alongside CYP, navigating complex challenges has deepened my understanding of how the arts can support CYP to have agency in their lives.

I’ve also learned the importance of leading with care and integrity. In a space where the work is deeply human and often complex, I’ve learned that compassionate leadership grounded in listening, honesty and trust is essential to creating lasting impact and creating a culture which encourages creativity, confidence and resilience both in CYP and the team.

What do you hope to see from Kazzum in 10 year's time?

·      Further recognition of the approach and its impact

·      Greater reach

·      More involvement from young people throughout the organisation

What’s on the horizon for your own future?

I will be joining Community Arts Northwest (CAN) in the role of General Manager. CAN work with urban communities in Greater Manchester to create access to cultural opportunities where people can stand up, speak out, challenge social justice issues and inspire change.

I am looking forward to continuing my commitment to socially engaged arts and working with communities to create powerful, transformative work.

Last one... If Kazzum was an animal, what would it be?

LOL um…an ant. Known for their team work, strength, communication skills and resilience. Small but mighty just like Kazzum!