In our second episode, we welcome Michael Burgess and his remarkable journey from dancer to senior diplomat to influential advocate for African arts and culture. As the Founder and Executive Director of Creative Resilience International, Michael has dedicated his career to uplifting Black and underrepresented creatives in art, design, and culture.

Michael shares his inspiring story of growing up in Belize and New York to utilising his skills to foster cultural exchange and elevate African creatives on global platforms, with a relentless passion for empowering others and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of creativity. Join us as we explore how Michael has found and is living his magic, showing us that true leadership lies in lifting others as we rise.

About Michael Burgess

Michael Burgess is the Founder and Director of Creative Resilience International, a leading social enterprise that empowers creatives from Black and underrepresented communities. He is also the High-Level Events Programming Manager for the Royal African Society, the UK's largest Africa-focused charity.

As a member of the Mayor of London’s Africa in London Committee, Michael has developed mentoring programs for institutions like Africa Fashion Week London and New York Parson’s School of Design. His recent accomplishments include co-producing Grace Jones' Meltdown Festival and curating the Royal African Society’s 120th Anniversary Gala.

Michael’s commitment to cultural empowerment is evident in his role as Creative Director for the African Fashion Awards and his collaboration with international fashion icon ALPHADI.

Connect with Michael

• Follow Creative Resilience International: https://www.creative-resilience.org/
• Michael’s Email: michael.burges@creative-resilience.org

About the Podcast

Welcome to Find Your Magic. We’re Ed Pike and Rob Sykes, co-founders of Find Your Magic, a company dedicated to supporting mid-lifers to create an exhilarating next chapter. This podcast is a series of in-depth conversations with individuals who are living or actively pursuing their magic: the thing or things they love to do either through their work, personal life, or both. We explore their journeys, the ups and downs, setbacks and successes.

• Website: www.findyourmagicretreats.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/findyourmagicretreats