Andrew brings with him a wealth of experience in Theatre for Young Audiences, creative education, and youth arts, having led national and international projects that put young people at the centre of the creative process.
His career has spanned work with major cultural institutions including Tramshed Arts, Derby Theatre, Leeds Heritage Theatres and The Young Shakespeare Company. With a passion for oracy, civic engagement and youth voice, Andrew’s practice sits at the intersection of schools, communities and cultural organisations. Collaborating to expand creative opportunities for children and young people.
In Andrew’s own words:
“My name is Andrew. My background is in theatre and creative education. For the past decade I’ve led youth arts projects across schools, communities and cultural organisations.
To me, engaging with culture means being present in the living moment of a place — hearing the voice of a city and the people who live there. It invites us to belong and gives us a sense of civic pride and responsibility. For children and young people, that sense of belonging helps them grow into active citizens, with the drive and the connection to bring about positive change.
If culture is the "here and now", then Creativity is the "ever after". A creative education is rehearsal for life. Through it we learn to see from other points of view. We practise using our voices to make change. We discover the power of emotions. We learn to collaborate, to compromise, and to lead with joy. Creativity is the foundation for a life of connection, understanding and innovation. And yet it is still so undervalued, even misunderstood. That is why this work is so important…
… and why I’m excited to step into this role. For me, this next chapter is about closing the loop: not only supporting teachers, practitioners and organisations, but celebrating the measurable impact in the creative and cultural lives of the young people they support. With the opportunities being created by Leeds33, we’re turning evidence into action and showing the real difference a cultural education can make.”
We are excited about the experience and energy Andrew brings to Leeds33 and look forward to working with him as he leads the next stage of our journey.
Thank you to Hannaa Hamdache
We also want to say a sincere thank you to Hannaa Hamdache, who has led Leeds33’s work with great care and focus. During her time with us, Hannaa guided Leeds33 through our transition to CIO status, welcomed new Trustees and Advisory Board members and helped to secure Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grant funding.
Hannaa’s leadership has been central to building strong foundations for the next stage of our journey and we are deeply grateful for her commitment and contribution. We wish her every success in her future endeavours.
