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Emily Bowman, Junction Arts
The organisation’s greatest achievements over the last 12 months reflect its ongoing growth, adaptability, and commitment to community-focused initiatives. The expansion of Bright Winter Nights (BWN) has been a standout success, building on last year’s achievements. A testament to the event's popularity was running out of willow for lantern-making in just one weekend, highlighting the strong community engagement.
Adaptability has also been key, with the organisation demonstrating the ability to reassess and pivot when challenges arise. Feedback loops and a commitment to continuous improvement have ensured the success of workshops, events, and projects.
Sustained delivery and a community focus remain cornerstones of their work. With nearly 50 years of experience in delivering quality programmes, the organisation has shown remarkable resilience in navigating the challenges of the charitable sector. Sell-out events like Bright Winter Nights and Cosy Crafts further showcase their popularity and ongoing impact.
When asked how their values align with the Bolsover Place Programme’s priorities of Stay. Belong. Flourish, the organisation emphasised the following:
Stay: Projects rooted in local spaces, such as the Lantern Parade in Bolsover Town, help people connect deeply with their home, fostering a sense of belonging and tradition.
Belong: Long-term engagement initiatives like Creswell Gets Creative nurture support networks and community pride.
Flourish: Programmes such as This Girl Codes empower young people by blending local heritage with STEM opportunities, promoting personal and professional growth.
What makes working and living in Bolsover so special? Emily highlighted the tight-knit community and the friendliness of locals, including shop workers. The beautiful scenery, with its lush greenery and fields, also stands out, along with the strong community spirit and vibrant creativity that define Bolsover.
