Create’s 22nd Anniversary Gala Dinner at Mosimann’s celebrates creativity and raises vital funds

Last night, Create’s 22nd Anniversary Gala Dinner at Mosimann’s raised £44,491 (net of costs with further funding expected) for Create’s vital work of bringing the creative arts to those who need it most. 

On Wednesday 26 March 2026, guests gathered at Mosimann’s for a special evening in support of Create’s mission: to empower lives, reduce isolation and enhance wellbeing through creativity. 

Guests were welcomed with a Champagne reception before enjoying a six-course dinner in the beautiful surroundings of Mosimann’s. Throughout the evening, a silent auction and raffle offered opportunities to support Create’s work – raising vital funds to deliver free creative arts programmes for some of the most vulnerable people in our society. 

Guests talking at a black tie Create annual Gala.

People need to create 

This year’s Gala focused on a simple but powerful idea: People Need to Create – and in particular, how creativity can help young carers build confidence, connection and a future beyond caring.  

Young carers often take on significant responsibilities from an early age, supporting family members while balancing school, friendships and their own wellbeing. Too often, this can limit their opportunities, confidence and aspirations. 

In her speech, Founding CEO Nicky Goulder MBE highlighted the growing body of research demonstrating the profound impact of the arts: 

“Attending a weekly arts workshop can lead to a 73% fall in depression; and attending just one arts activity per month can increase your life by 10 years.” 

Nicky Goulder, Create Founding CEO, giving a speech at Create's annual gala.

Creativity as a catalyst for opportunity

For young carers, creativity is not just an outlet – it can be a turning point. 

Through Create’s programmes, young carers and other marginalised groups are given time away from their responsibilities and life challenges. Our projects give them the chance to connect with others in similar situations, and the opportunity to build skills, confidence and a sense of identity. 

Nicky reflected on the broader impact of this work: 

“People on our programmes frequently tell us that being creative helps improve their mental health. It builds skills, brings joy and reduces isolation – and it levels the playing field for people from many different walks of life.” 

Since 2003, Create has worked with nearly 50,000 participants, delivering thousands of workshops across the UK and providing access to creativity for those who might otherwise go without. Crucially, every project is delivered free of charge, ensuring that those with the least access can benefit. 

Guests listening to a speech, sat at a round dining table at a black tie Create annual Gala.

INVESTING IN YOUNG CARERS’ FUTURES 

A key focus of the evening was inspiring:talent, Create’s new programme designed to provide sustained, long-term support for young carers. 

Building on nearly two decades of experience working with this group, inspiring:talent will support young carers at a critical stage in their lives – helping them to develop transferable skills, build relationships with peers and mentors, and explore future pathways through creativity. 

By offering consistent, high-quality creative opportunities over time, the programme aims to give young carers something that is often out of reach: the chance to focus on themselves, their potential and their futures. 

Guests also heard from Create’s Youth Ambassador Abi, whose journey from attending Create workshops as a young carer to studying filmmaking at university demonstrates what can happen when young people are given that opportunity. 

Create Youth Ambassador Abi giving a speech at Create's annual Gala

A celebration of generosity and creativity 

We are immensely grateful to Anton Mosimann OBE, Mark Mosimann and the team at Mosimann’s for their continued generosity and hospitality. 

Our sincere thanks also go to our table hosts, donors and all those who contributed to the silent auction and raffle. Your support ensures that we can continue to bring the life-enhancing power of the creative arts to those who need it most. 

From everyone at Create, thank you for being part of such a special evening.