Jason Jones
Thesis title: Supporting Refugee Creative Entrepreneurship: An Examination of Experiences, Barriers, and Organisational Assistance in Birmingham’s Arts Sector
Alongside immigrant and ethnic minority entrepreneurs, refugees undertaking creative entrepreneurship in the UK's cultural and creative industries confront various barriers to entrepreneurship. Nevertheless, refugee, immigrant and ethnic minority entrepreneurs offer substantial economic contributions to the UK whilst fostering cohesive and diverse communities. However, little existing research seeks to minimise the barriers that refugee creative entrepreneurs confront.
Evidence indicates that arts-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs) offer provisions that can lessen the barriers faced by refugee creative entrepreneurs, but this evidence is indirect and arguable. Whilst arts NGOs' provisions develop the confidence and skills of its recipients or foster support networks and knowledge exchange, little existing research investigates how the impacts caused by a refugee's engagement with an arts NGO's provisions may minimise barriers faced by refugee creative entrepreneurs.
By undertaking a case study in an arts NGO using interviews, archival analysis, and ethnography, this research will explore whether an arts NGO's provisions can minimise barriers faced by refugee creative entrepreneurs. This research seeks to offer recommendations supporting refugee creative entrepreneurs, resulting in increased social cohesion, diversity in the UK's cultural industries, and national economic prosperity. It will also offer cultural policy recommendations to address the everyday challenges confronted by the arts NGO, resulting in greater support for refugee creative entrepreneurs and their economic and social contributions.
Biography
I am passionate about the transformative potential of the arts. I have been personally impacted by the arts' transformative capacities, and I have seen how the arts can positively impact others. As a drummer, I have played, taught, and performed, which has developed my confidence and widened my skillset. As an events coordinator and projects manager, I have worked in an arts charity aiming to offer creative opportunities that can positively impact its recipients. I hold an MA in Arts Management, Policy, and Practice.
Area Studies
Aston University
2024 Cohort, +4
Supervisory Team
Dr. Amanda Beattie
Prof. Monder Ram
Dr. Patrycja Rozbicka