About the PPI Program:
The Producing with Pride Initiative (PPI) is a three-month training program of performance producing and events at the Victorian Pride Centre. PPI develops the next generation of LGBTIQA+ event producers, providing hands-on training in event planning, arts and cultural management, creative direction, and mentorship.
The program creates pathways for emerging producers to design and deliver events that elevate a wide range of community arts voices, strengthening Victoria’s queer cultural landscape. At the end of the program, participants will be able to present their own event at the VPC during Pride Month as part of our pride program of events.
- The program is open to a wide range of arts producers working across disciplinary streams such as visual arts, performance and related fields.
- Open to LGBTIQA+ individuals across Victoria, with a strong encouragement for folks from regional, and rural areas to apply.
- Inclusive of diverse backgrounds such as First Nations Peoples, Transgender and Gender Diverse communities, CALD individuals, people with disability, and various age groups.
- Accessible to participants from all parts of Victoria with workshops in-person.
- This program is free for participants. Financial support/reimbursement for travel will be available for eligible participants
Key dates will be shared shortly as the program officially launches in 2027. PPI will follow an equity model, and each workshop will build on the last.
What the PPI Program Offers:
Empowerment and Skill Development
- Producing Foundations: Build the core skills needed to develop, plan, and deliver your own event. Learn how to shape an idea, understand your audience, and create work that reflects your artistic voice.
- Producer Pitching: Strengthen your confidence in presenting artistic ideas, speaking to stakeholders, and communicating your project clearly.
- Digital & Media Skills: Learn how to use digital tools, social media, and storytelling platforms to promote your own or your artists’ work to engage audiences.
- Wellbeing: Develop self‑care strategies to support your creative practice throughout the producing process.
Professional Opportunities
- Showcase Pathway: Upon completing the program, participants will have the opportunity to present their own event at the Victorian Pride Centre as part of Pride Month 2027.
- Industry Connections: Build relationships with LGBTIQA+ creatives, producers, arts workers, and organisations engaged in the program.
- Future Producing Opportunities: Gain insight into pathways for further development, collaborations, and presenting work beyond the program.
Personal Growth and Community Impact
- Confidence Building: Strengthen your confidence as a producer and storyteller, empowering you to bring your creative ideas and vision to life.
- Visibility & Representation: Contribute to greater visibility of LGBTIQA+ voices and stories within Australia.
- Supportive Community: Become part of a peer network that offers ongoing encouragement, shared learning and artistic support.
Structured Program
- Workshop Series: Participate in regular producing workshops designed to build your skills step‑by‑step, with each session building on the last.
- Three‑Month Program: Engage in a structured three‑month development process, culminating in the opportunity to present your work as part of Pride Month.
The RISE in PRIDE Program is proudly supported by the DFFH LGBTIQA+ Sector Strengthening Grant.
Header image courtesy of Ejay Freeman, taken at the Diva Eclipse 2026.