Dorcas holds a colourful, patterned skirt during Kulture Fest. She stands in front of a world map and country flags, representing cultural diversity.

In the first episode, hosts Max and Mark dive into the world of Kulture Fest, an exciting cultural event pionnered by Dorcas, a 2022 Agent at Contact in Manchester. Hear how Dorcas turned her vision of bringing people together through food, workshops, and live performances into a thriving festival, despite the challenges along the way. Now, her ambition is to make Kulture Fest a nationwide movement!

Stay connected with Kulture Fest on Instagram: kulturefestmcr_

Max
We are The Agency, an entrepreneurship team for 15 to 25-year-olds to join as our agents and change their communities. I'm agent Max and agent Mark is my co-host. We're interviewing agent Dorcas, originator of the Kulture Fest event themed around cultures of African descendants. People are brought together while enjoying food, workshops, and live performances. She is also a fantastic member of The Agency Steering Group, a group dedicated to shaping the future of The Agency. Firstly, who are you and what are your interests?
Dorcas
Hi, my name is Dorcas and I have many interests actually. So yeah. Do you mean like in terms of hobbies or.
Max
Well, just anything you feel like really.
Dorcas
I like spending time with friends, like socializing with people, getting to know them. How did you find out about The Agency? So basically I was at a youth club and with my friends after school, and this lady called Olivia, she approached us with a leaflet saying, "You guys should join The Agency." And I didn't know what that was, so I asked, and she said, it's an organization that works for young people. You get paid, attend their sessions weekly, and also it's an opportunity to create change in your community. So I was very interested because I was like, I never heard of that before. And are you sure that I can take part because I'm only 18, like I'm very young? And she said, "Yes, sure. The age range is from 15 to 25."
Dorcas
So I was like, alright, maybe I should look up to it. And then that's what I did.
Max
Why does your project with The Agency matter to you?
Dorcas
It matters because it really changed me. Like when I first started and I can see myself now, like easy four years now into it and I'm still working with The Agency. I've gained so many things working within The Agency like knowledge, experience, and also personal growth. For example, the way I'm confident now, like if I look back, I was very shy and introverted, but now I could say I'm outgoing. I've done so many speeches, talking about my project, and I've met new people like leaders of organizations, founders, and CEOs of big businesses. I had conversations with them, and without The Agency, I couldn't see myself in that position. So I'm very grateful for that. What were your initial insecurities when starting your project, and how did you overcome them?
Dorcas
So basically, my project is event planning. I plan an annual event every year in Manchester to promote the Black community and young people's talents. My insecurity was that people wouldn't turn up and wouldn't see the need to take part in the activities I provide. But I researched and found a need in my community for these events because they bring people together, allowing us to celebrate ourselves. My first event was packed, and people complimented me, saying things like, "You're so young; how did you do this?" That feedback showed me there was indeed a need in my community for my project. So I kept going, and that's where I am today.
Max
Just to interject, in my experience with my project in The Agency, like Wise Connections. Even if just one or two people show up, that's already a success. There are people who need this, and it doesn’t have to be dozens. Just having one person attend and gain something from it is rewarding.
Dorcas
That's the aim, that people leave the venue saying, "I really enjoyed that." I want them to feel grateful they attended and accessed something meaningful in their community.
Max
What is an example of a specific community need you identified and addressed through your project?
Dorcas
Like I said, I researched the best place for my event, focusing on areas where it’s most needed. I found Moston Lane in Manchester, a diverse area that doesn’t often get celebrated. That’s where I held my first event, and I want to continue working in that area as the years go on.
Dorcas
The feedback has been very positive, especially from funders and local organizations. They’ve told me it’s impressive how the event brings people together with activities that engage all kinds of attendees. Plus, as a young person myself, doing this for my peers is something I’m proud of.
Max
I think what you've done so far, holding these events…
Dorcas
Yeah, it's not easy. Event planning is time-consuming; finding a venue alone can be lengthy, with so many documents and permissions required, especially if it’s an outdoor space.
Max
Yeah, it’s a lot to juggle. Sometimes you don’t get quick responses, and it’s tough to rely on the people in charge.
Dorcas
Exactly. You’re left waiting, with people asking when the next event is, and you can’t give a definite answer.
Max
Overall, what are the future plans for your project?
Dorcas
I hope to grow it into a large event, similar to a carnival in the UK, but I know that’s a big ambition. It would be great to hold it in a park, with vendors, performances, and lots of attendees. For now, I’m starting smaller, using venues in Manchester, but I dream of making it a yearly event that becomes a staple for people.
Dorcas
Being part of The Agency changed my perspective. Now, I look at spaces as opportunities for events, workshops, and community improvement. I consider how to make youth clubs more appealing to young people and think about ways to address gaps in resources.
Max
What would you like to see more of from The Agency in the future?
Dorcas
The Agency is doing great, but I’d love for it to expand to more areas so even more young people, regardless of where they live, can get involved.
Max
And last but not least, Mark.
Mark
What advice would you give to someone struggling to identify their passion or community needs?
Dorcas
I’d ask them what they want for themselves, even the little things like changes at a local shop, park, or school. Let your desires guide you, and then start small.
Max
Thanks so much for chatting about your project and sharing your experience with The Agency.
Dorcas
Thank you.
Max
You can follow Dorcas on Instagram at @kulturefestmcr_ — that's Kulture with a K!