Jessica Nelson: Strengthening Community Relationships Through Events
Part of The Agency London (produced by Battersea Arts Centre)
London Alumni Agent Jessica joined The Agency when she was sixteen years old, shortly after finishing her GCSEs. Before joining The Agency in 2011, Jessica was preparing to start her A Levels at college. While she knew she loved drama, she didn’t yet have a clear picture of what her future might look like or where her interests could take her. What she did know was that she wanted to make a positive difference in her community.
At the time, young people in London were often being viewed negatively, particularly in the aftermath of the London riots. Jessica felt frustrated by the strong stigma attached to young people in her local area because it didn’t reflect the reality she saw around her. She was motivated to join The Agency because she wanted to challenge that narrative and show young people in a positive light.
Her original project idea focused on creating a welcoming social space where people could come together, connect, and feel proud of their community. She wanted to create something constructive and inclusive that would help strengthen community relationships and change the way young people were perceived.
Although her initial idea did not receive funding, what initially felt like a setback became a defining moment in her journey. Instead of stepping away, Jessica joined another Agency project focused on showcasing positive music and creativity – IAMNEXT. Through the project, she was introduced into the world of events, organising, coordinating, programming, and bringing people together in a safe, creative environment.
This was the first time she had seen what happened behind the scenes of an event, and realise event management is something she was passionate about. She refers to her Agency experience as ‘transformational’ as it opened her eyes to a career path she had never considered before.
Through The Agency, Jessica developed practical skills in event planning, project management, coordination and creative problem-solving. More importantly, she gained confidence in her abilities and clarity about her future. She went on to study Drama at university, but her Agency experience continued to shape her direction. While studying, she realised she was no longer interested in being on stage. Instead, she was drawn to directing, producing, organising, managing communications and creating the structures that allow creative work to thrive.
“The Agency didn’t just give me skills, it helped me see my value, my strengths, and the impact I could have by bringing people together through events.” - Jessica, Event Manager at The Royal Parks, Alumni Agent and Steering Group Member
Since taking part in The Agency, Jessica has gone on to:
Become an Events Manager at The Royal Parks
Build a successful freelance career as an event planner and coordinator
Support the planning and delivery of The Agency’s 10-Year Anniversary Celebration
Join the Board of Trustees at Battersea Arts Centre
Become a Steering Group Member
Looking back, Jessica thinks The Agency played a huge role in shaping her career, confidence, and the belief that there are many routes to success, even when the first idea doesn’t work out. Today, Jessica works across public, cultural and freelance spaces, continue to champion experiences that are inclusive, meaningful and joyful.