Cringe Not - Learn storytelling to network with ease

Learn storytelling to network with ease (even if you hate talking about yourself)

CRINGE NOT

Learn storytelling to network with ease

(even if you hate talking about yourself)

If you're a creative who'd rather make the work than talk about it, traditional networking feels excruciating. The problem is that here in Western Sydney's growing creative economy, the best work isn't advertised - it comes through relationships. And right now, while you're avoiding networking events, someone else is connecting with the collaborator, investor, or mentor who could transform your project or business. This workshop will help you share your visions through story—a skill you already have. When you can articulate what drives your work with clarity and passion, networking stops feeling like performance and starts feeling like conversation. And that's when the right connections happen.

THIS IS IDEAL FOR:

- Introverted creatives who avoid networking because it feels fake or uncomfortable

- Artists and makers who struggle to talk about their work without underselling or overselling it

- Emerging entrepreneurs launching creative businesses who need to pitch projects with confidence

- Mid-career creatives needing fresh ways to position themselves

- Anyone who hates small talk but wants meaningful professional connections

- Creative professionals who know their work is good but freeze when asked "So, what do you do?"

YOU WILL WALK AWAY WITH:

- ready-to-use stories about yourself and your work that feel authentic, memorable, and strategically designed to spark the right conversations

- a clear framework for turning awkward networking moments into genuine connections

- practical techniques for reading the room and adapting your story on the fly

- new connections made during the session and networking opportunity that follows

Most importantly, you'll leave with renewed confidence that networking doesn't require you to become someone else—it requires you to become clearer about who you already are. This highly interactive workshop led by Launch Pad Creative's Creator-in-Residence Si Dikkenberg combines hands-on exercises, peer feedback, real-time story crafting, and actionable strategies you'll practice and refine with fellow creatives who get it.

SPEAKER BIO

Si Dikkenberg is Launch Pad Creative's Creator-in-Residence and a specialist in narrative frameworks for creative innovation. Si has extensive experience leading masterclasses, facilitating international innovation programs, and developing storytelling strategies for Western Sydney's creative entrepreneurs.

February 17, 2026

5:30 - networking

6:00 - session

7:15 - networking

Launch Pad - Level 1, 6 Hassall St, Parramatta

This event is brought to you by Launch Pad Creative. We help the creatives of Western Sydney to build sustinable businesses and careers through innovation and entrepreneurship.