For so many, lockdown proved to be a very mixed bag - extremely challenging, but also full of little chinks of light: the slower speed of life; the renewed appreciation for loved ones, nature and those who care for us and the strengthening of our communities. Creativity bloomed and I was definitely not the only one, who had an idea for a project. For me, the House of Talents proved to be a complete blessing during the first lockdown, giving me something to focus on that was outside of myself and what was happening in the world while pouring my energy into something which I hoped might make a difference.

Once the idea had rooted, I approached everyone I’d ever worked with, heard about, spoken to or admired, asking them if they would teach their craft online. They included artists, writers, actors, novelists, playwrights, performers, mindfulness coaches, yoga and meditation teachers. I never expected half of them to respond, let alone be so enthusiastic, and the result was a virtual house filled with experienced and talented teachers all sharing their skills in (affordable) online classes.

There are now over 40 tutors in the House, ranging from highly experienced mindfulness coaches, long-term yoga practitioners and meditation teachers to award-winning novelists, Olivier-nominated actors and prize-winning playwrights. We even have an in-house publisher giving advice on how to publish your book, and a resident home cook from Naples offering Italian cookery lessons. Our classes and courses are used by numerous private individuals as well as The Mirror Group, The London School of Economics and the Royal College of Nursing. 10% of all proceeds are donated to charity.

For me and everyone else who set up similar initiatives during this time, it is added proof, that even when things look as bleak as they currently do, there will always be gaps in the clouds, where the light shines through.