As freelancing becomes the primary mode of work for many artists, the challenge is no longer talent alone, but sustainability. In March 2024, Katha Pilipinas, in partnership with the University of Asia and the Pacific – Continuing Real World Education (UA&P CORE), launched Navigating Freelancing Life as a Creative, a continuing education programme designed to equip Filipino creatives with the business, behavioural, and professional tools needed to thrive in independent practice.
Held in Pasig City and delivered across four Saturdays in March 2024, the programme responded to the growing realities of freelance creative work, where artists are expected to manage branding, finances, contracts, clients, and personal resilience alongside their craft. Drawing from Katha Pilipinas’ long-standing engagement with creative communities and UA&P CORE’s applied education framework, the programme was built to be practical, grounded, and immediately relevant.
Participants engaged in expert-led sessions covering branding and positioning, marketing strategies, financial and legal responsibilities, client relations, and personal development. The curriculum balanced technical knowledge with behavioural insights, helping creatives build confidence, structure, and professionalism without compromising their artistic identity.
The programme was facilitated by experienced practitioners with a deep understanding of the Philippine creative economy, offering real-world perspectives on the opportunities and pressures faced by independent creatives today. Beyond skills-building, the sessions fostered peer exchange and community learning, recognising that sustainable creative careers are strengthened through shared knowledge and support systems.
Navigating Freelancing Life as a Creative marked the inaugural programme in Katha Pilipinas’ continuing education initiatives, laying the foundation for future offerings such as Pagsibol and Leading Beyond Limits. Together, these programmes reflect a broader commitment to strengthening creative livelihoods by bridging practice, entrepreneurship, and community care.
