Kickstarting Careers at Go Freelance 2026
Welcoming a panel of freelance experts who shared their journeys, insights, and practical advice for aspiring freelancers.
The Student Enterprise team was delighted to celebrate the return and continued success of Go Freelance, a panel and networking event that brings together professional freelancers and like-minded students, inspiring those considering freelancing as an exciting and achievable career path. Held at the Student Enterprise Junction in the Sir James Matthews Building (City Centre Campus), the event united a vibrant mix of creative and professional disciplines, giving attendees a broad and practical insight into what freelancing can offer.
During the afternoon, students were guided through the essentials of launching a freelance career, from securing their first clients to building a sustainable business for the long term. The programme explored pathways in design, copywriting, engineering, marketing, photography and many other fields.
The session was hosted by James Hamstead (Student Enterprise Consultant and Freelance Graphic Designer), who led a diverse panel of contributors sharing their personal journeys and practical advice, including Poppy Anning (Digital Marketing Manager), Leisel Grimes (Copywriter), current PhD student Josette Crispin (Event Photographer), Georgia Pullen (Graphic and Web Designer) and alumnus Joe Rickman (Drone Engineer and Videographer).
Just a year ago, Joe had been sitting in the audience at Go Freelance himself; returning as a panellist marked a genuine full-circle moment and a clear example of how Student Enterprise can help turn ideas into action.
Together, the panel offered honest and practical insights into the realities of freelancing, from the freedom and flexibility it brings to the challenges involved, and how it can develop into either a full-time career or a valuable side venture.
A strong turnout and positive feedback demonstrated just how keen students are to explore self-employment. Students and recent graduates can continue their journey through the Freelance Pathway of the Student Enterprise Fund, which offers grants to support early-stage ideas. They can also take advantage of free access to Freelancer Club (worth £300), an online platform providing lessons, resources and mentoring, alongside ongoing one-to-one guidance from the Student Enterprise team.
Alongside running our own events, Student Enterprise welcomes opportunities to collaborate with academic departments by using the Student Enterprise Junction as an innovative, flexible space where academic learning can connect with entrepreneurial practice. To explore partnership opportunities or learn more about the support available, please contact the team at [email protected].