OUR CREATIVE TEAM
Marlise Mantell
Founder
Skills2Create was born out of a simple belief: everyone deserves the chance to learn the skills that matter in life. Creating this centre has been a way for me to bring together parents, mentors, and young people in a space that is supportive, hands-on, and inspiring. For me, it’s about giving people the confidence to create, to grow, and to believe in themselves.
Jo Allkins
Manager/Facilitator
I see my role at Skills2Create as more than just managing the centre, I get to guide, encourage, and walk alongside our learners as they discover new skills. Every day is different, whether I’m helping to facilitate a workshop, planning activities, or just being there to motivate someone who’s trying something new. What excites me most is watching people grow, not just in skills, but in confidence.
Our Purpose
As parents ourselves, we’ve seen how practical skills are no longer being passed down, with many young people missing the chance to learn them at school or even at home. We’re passionate about changing that by creating a space where our community can gain these essential life skills.
From changing a light bulb or a kettle plug to replacing a car tyre, our centre exists to equip people with the confidence and know-how to handle everyday tasks.
Tailored Workshops
The workshop takes participants from planning to hands-on home improvement and décor skills. They will learn painting, crack filling, sanding, and installing skirtings, cornicing, wallpaper, and curtains. Projects include making a bedside cupboard or lamp and sewing pillow covers. Creative activities range from beadwork and painting to resin work and pottery.
After School
Creative Sessions
We offer a safe space for children to come to after school during the week to enjoy being creative and to learn new skills. We offer sessions for both children and young adults. Our young adults are also given the opportunity to learn how to use power tools, welding machines, etc.
Adult Workshops
This is where we adults can come together and learn new skills or even just join a session or two to mingle and hone our skills. This could be both on the creative side and in the pottery studio and the workshop. We will teach ladies and gentlemen alike how to use power tools, too.
Rent a Space
Do you not have power tools, pottery studio equipment or a sewing station at home, but you have a project you want to tackle? Well then, we have the solution for you.
Our studio spaces are all available for you to rent on a per-hour basis in the morning and/or when other workshops are not running.
