WHO WE ARE

Founded in 2018, Project Female is a Brighton based dance organisation. Our mission is to create an inclusive space for young dancers who identify as female or non-binary to express themselves free from judgement.

We aim to redefine the preconceptions of youth dance. We teach a unique fusion of contemporary/hip-hop dance and we empower dancers to express themselves unapologetically and grow in confidence. We support dancers to take risks and challenge the boundaries set by society.

Project Female applies a youth work approach to our dance setting with integrated pastoral care to prioritise the mental and physical wellbeing of our young people.

What we do:

We deliver inclusive dance sessions across Sussex, fostering an environment where young dancers can grow with confidence and purpose.

Project Female has adapted the way that dance is facilitated to remove features that contribute to young people feeling uncomfortable and unable to participate due to their levels of self-confidence or self-esteem. We have addressed the hierarchy and power-dynamics within the space and developed a code of conduct which nurtures mutual respect and community values.


Our work empowers young people to explore and address social injustices through dance. Through performances, filmmaking, podcasts, and workshops, we create space and places for youth voices to be heard.

Our vision:

Our vision is for Brighton to become the first place in the UK where all young people who identify as female, especially those who are absent from other forms of education and support, can find a voice through dance.

What makes us unique?

Project Female CIC and it’s activity sits in a unique position that encompasses a Youth Work Setting, a Mental Health Support Setting and an Innovative Dance Setting. We pride ourselves on our three strand approach:

Innovative Dance Setting

  • A safe space free from judgement or humiliation

  • Highly trained dance teachers

  • Creation of high quality dance work

  • Differentiated technique training

  • Empowering performance opportunities and insights into a professional dance setting

Youth Work Approach

  • Youth led environment which amplifies the voices of our young people

  • A variety of dance pathways to reflect different interests of young people

  • Prioritising mutual respect, being part of a community and authentic representation

  • Empowering young people to make social change and shape their own future

  • Offering a variety of youth leadership opportunities for example Duke of Edinburgh awards and Dance ambassadors.

Mental Health Support Setting

  • All Project Female team are trauma informed with a working understanding of mental health challenges in Young People

  • Encouraging body positivity & a strong sense of self worth

  • Upskilling young people to communicate and manage their wellbeing needs

  • Signposting to appropriate services

  • Pastoral care from safe adults who are aware of the cultural context of being a Young Person

Meet the Team

  • Ellie Bishop Williams

    Artistic Director

    Ellie has always been an active member of the local dance community. Over the last 6 years she has successfully realised her vision of creating a safe space for young female dancers to develop and express themselves through dance theatre.

  • Pip Sayers

    Executive Producer

    Pip’s role with Project Female is multifaceted. She brings her understanding of the challenges faced by young people today. Her producing skills and her creative eye for enhancing great choreography. Along with contemporary costume design.

  • Lorna Cross Clark

    Marketing Coordinator

    Lorna is responsible for managing our social media and online presence. She also oversees all internal and external communications to keep our community informed and connected.

  • Phoebe Tompsett

    Assistant Producer

    Phoebe plays a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of all aspects of Project Female, supporting the team across productions, events, and daily operations.