community routes
Community Routes is an exciting new FREE programme packed with workshops, mentorship and a residency dedicated to equip the next generation of young creative professionals in the West Midlands with the skills & support that they need to thrive in the Creative Industries, across five key areas - Vocal Performance, Digital Arts, Radio + Broadcasting, Photography and DJ.
Shape your creative future now.
what to expect
Residency
Develop your skills in an intensive weeklong, bootcamp-style Residency with experienced facilitators.
Workshops & Mentorship
Participate in workshops and get paired with specialist mentors to master skills in areas such as leadership, marketing and budgeting.
Showcase & Networking
Showcase your work at Shambala Festival 2026, and develop your audience & networks with the wider Creative Industries.
Applications OPEn
For our third year, Community Routes, will offer 50 spaces for young creative professionals in the West Midlands, 18 - 25* with the opportunity to develop their creative & professional skills, beginning with a Residency in August, followed by showcase & performance opportunities at Shambala Festival, a programme of workshops throughout the year, and a chance to get an assigned industry mentor.
Creative camps
Vocal Performance: Own the stage. Whether you're a singer, rapper, or spoken word artist, this camp will help you master vocal techniques, stage presence, and artistic expression. Collaborate with artists, record in a studio, and gain the confidence to perform at your best.
DJ: Command the crowd. Whether you're just starting out or refining your sound, this camp will develop your skills in mixing, blending, and reading a room. Learn from experienced DJs, explore different styles, and build the confidence to perform live.
Photography: Capture the moment. Develop your eye and tell stories through images. From shooting and composition to editing and creative direction, this camp will help you build a strong visual style and a portfolio that stands out.
Digital Arts: Create without limits. Dive into digital creativity - explore design, animation, and visual storytelling using industry tools. Whether you're into graphics, content creation, or experimental visuals, this camp will help you bring your ideas to life.
Radio & Broadcasting: Find your voice. Step into the world of radio and broadcasting - learn presenting, interviewing, and storytelling techniques while getting hands-on with studio equipment. Whether behind the mic or producing content, you’ll develop the skills to create engaging broadcasts.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: Sunday 28th June
Induction: Thursday 20th - Friday 21st August
Residency: Monday 24th - Friday 28th August
Shambala Festival: Saturday 29th August
Requirements
Must be available for the dates outlined above
*Be aged between 18 - 25 (Applicants between the ages of 18 and 25 will be prioritised. However, we welcome exceptional applications from individuals outside this range, specifically those between 16 and 30)
Must want to work in the Creative Industries
Must be based in Birmingham or in the surrounding areas of the West Midlands
If you would prefer to apply via video please contact info@punch-records.co.uk, with a video of no longer than 5 minutes, answering each of these questions in the application form above
If you require additional support to complete the application please contact info@punch-records.co.uk or call Punch HQ on 0121 794 0244 between 10pm - 5pm on a weekday.
partners
