Hello. We are the
Alliance for Socially
Engaged Arts.
We are an alliance of some of Europe’s leading arts philanthropic foundations, uniting substantial resources, and building a collaborative network. Together, we provide support and a connected voice to help socially engaged arts to thrive.
The Challenge
Arts and culture are a powerful force for positive change, with the ability to shift perspectives, promote inclusivity and inspire action. Across Europe, arts organisations are harnessing this power to address pressing societal issues, stepping up as active social convenors to build fairer, more resilient communities. Yet too often, these organisations are undervalued in increasingly challenging environments, receiving insufficient recognition in policy and funding. These complex conditions stifle their power to drive societal impact and to shape a more creative and connected Europe.
Our vision
Socially engaged arts are celebrated for their creative power and ability to drive social change, with widespread recognition and support across Europe.
OUR MISSION
Connect. Create. Change.
We exist to connect and elevate visionary leaders and organisations in socially engaged arts across Europe, transforming public and policy awareness and securing vital recognition and funding to accelerate their impact.
We are guided by
our core values
Collective Drive
At the heart of our alliance is a strong dedication to collaboration and a shared purpose in shaping a transformative future for socially engaged arts across Europe. We share an ambitious vision and believe the impact we can make together is greater than what we can achieve individually. By supporting innovation and working across silos, we build a resilient and vibrant ecosystem in which socially engaged arts can thrive.
Inclusivity
We value inclusivity, recognising the diverse contexts and societal needs across Europe. We believe in the power of diverse voices coming together to amplify impact. We are committed to creating an environment open to new ideas where opportunities to participate and engage are abundant, fulfilling lives creatively. By embracing inclusivity, we foster collaboration, co-create better solutions, and empower all to shape a more connected and impactful future.
Impact
Every action we take is focused on making a tangible difference and leaving behind a meaningful legacy together. We are driven by our North Star: scaling the visibility and influence of socially engaged arts practices and practitioners. We believe in the role that the arts can play in strengthening community ties, changing narratives and shaping better futures. We are ambitious change-makers committed to increasing the recognition of socially engaged arts.
Meet the Alliance
The Alliance is a partnership between 11 philanthropic foundations from across Europe, hosted by the Network of European Foundations. Each foundation is part of the Steering Committee, chaired by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, helping set the strategic direction of our work. They actively contribute with their own expertise, resources and connections to achieve greater collective impact.
Our Team
Daniela Nofal
Programme Manager
Daniela is Programme Manager at the Alliance for Socially Engaged Arts. An experienced cultural organiser and creative producer, she’s produced and commissioned creative interventions at the intersection of art, arts education and social engagement. She has previously worked with and consulted a number of leading organisations including Counterpoints Arts, Shubbak, Beyond the Now and Ettijahat.
At the heart of her creative practice is a commitment to experimenting with forms of organising that reimagine assembly and solidarity. Daniela has collaboratively initiated several artist collectives including Sadaa Sound Syndicate and Makkam. She also co-founded and directed London’s Syrian Arts and Culture Festival (SACF).