Video Feature: Female Founders on the Power of Creative Communities

Happy International Women’s Day 2020! This year, the UN’s chosen theme, #EachforEqual, centers on reaching gender equality in every arena: from equal representation in boardrooms to equal access to education and health resources.

Unsurprisingly, equality in the creative industry is multilayered. It can mean being considered for projects traditionally filled by male counterparts, gaining access to the knowledge necessary to level-up in a given field, or simply seeing someone who looks like you in a senior creative role.

You may be asking yourself now: how do we move the needle forward?

This International Women’s Day, we spoke to Skillshare teachers and artists who are doing just that. Through building spaces that advance women in art and media, they are moving toward gender equality in creative industries.

We are excited to share their stories below. Click on the video to learn more!

In Her Words: Sara Rain on how community shaped her Creative Path

For me, it’s being able to share my journey with a community that understands the highs and lows that come with being an artist. Seeing everyone's journey is really inspiring and it makes me see that I can do it too. Before I met all these other like-minded creatives, I knew I wanted to be creative, but I didn't really see the route so clearly. 

I went to art college but my colleagues weren’t really doing anything creative after we graduated. I was living in Japan and felt a little bit lost.

“Seeing everyone’s journey is really inspiring and it makes me see that I can do it too.”

Sara Rain, Skillshare teacher

I didn't really know what direction to take things in and that's when I found Skillshare which absolutely changed my life. Through Skillshare, I connected with Dylan and other artists which led to this wonderful group. It’s the community and constant encouragement during times where I feel like I want to give up that’s so special. I know I can't because there are all these people right behind me and they won’t let me.

Classes Led by Trail-Blazing Creative Women

We’ve curated classes by women working to empower others in illustration, photography, design, and more. Check out our curated list today to learn from these artists and don’t forget to bookmark the roundup for viewing throughout the year.