Unique Magazines launches Creative Talent Programme
Written by Myrna Goodger on 29th September 2026
North East independent magazine store Unique Magazines has launched a student initiative taking creative learning out of the classroom.
The Creative Talent Programme will combine industry insight, creativity and hands-on experience with a series of sessions supporting university students’ learning and studies.
Taking place in Unique’s store in Gateshead, the opportunity is open to a select number of creatives from the University of Sunderland, Northumbria University, and University Centre Middlesbrough, with sessions taking place once a month.
Credit: Unique Magazines
John Porrett, Founder and Managing Director at Unique Magazines, said: “There is an incredible amount of emerging talent across the Northeast, and we want to give students opportunities to showcase their work, meet and learn from people already working in the industry, build their confidence and make connections that could help shape their future careers.
“I want students to feel that this is their programme — somewhere they can be inspired, share ideas, meet like-minded people, and discover opportunities they might not otherwise have known existed.”
The first function, taking place on Wednesday 30 September, is the university mixer event, hosted in Unique’s Mag Room and Mag Studio, to introduce the Sessions & Makes, and provide an opportunity for students from the different universities to connect. Other sessions over the year include workshops on creating a magazine, photography, hair, makeup and styling, and building a brand.
Students can also enter for the Creative Talent Award, where students who create a magazine as their final project have the chance to not only win a physical award, but have five copies of their work professionally printed and stocked in Unique’s store.
Credit: Unique Magazines
Sarah, general magazine director, said: “Some of the best inspiration can be found in a magazine you’ve never heard of, created by someone doing something completely differently to everyone else.
“We’ve designed the programme to complement what they’re already learning at university, giving them access to print, different creative perspectives and real insight from people working across the industry.
“I’d love to see more young creatives discovering print – whether that’s reading it, being inspired by it, working within the industry, or creating something of their own.”
Students wishing to enter for a place in the programme can sign up by speaking to their course leader.
