Meeting Our Global Community, Ismène Elbers

Believing that creativity is both a personal sanctuary and a powerful tool for transformation, Ismène dedicated her career to bridging the gap between non-formal learners and the formal sector. As a multidisciplinary creative, cultural entrepreneur, and coach, she fosters personal growth through training, coaching, and collaboration. Rooted in music, theatre, and visual arts, her work champions inclusivity and innovation, advocating for the recognition of autodidacts and multi-potential individuals worldwide.

To understand the real-world impact of our Sector Expert Bootcamp, we caught up with Ismène to discuss her personal journey through the programme. Her experience beautifully illustrates how the bootcamp translates a diverse, non-traditional background into a recognised, powerhouse skillset. 

But first, let’s hear from the Multidisciplinary Trailblazer herself.

Ismène Elbers

The Netherlands

Sector: Creative Sector Multidisciplinary skillset Music, Theater, Visual Art, Creative Coaching & Training within the creative industry

Website I LinkedIn

As a multidisciplinary creative and cultural entrepreneur, I have dedicated my career to empowering autodidacts and multi-potential individuals. At HUB168, a 13th-century monastery in the Netherlands, I foster creativity and personal growth through coaching, training, and collaboration. My background in music, theatre, and visual arts has shaped my understanding of creativity as both a sanctuary and a tool for transformation. As a Creative Art & Cultural Coach, CLOCK Sector Expert, and Peer Reviewer, I bridge the gap between non-formal learners and the formal sector, advocating for recognition, inclusivity, and innovation in the creative industries.



Empowering Creative Minds and Validating Non-Formal Learning

This passion for bridging the gap between non-formal learning and formal recognition isn’t just a professional mission, it’s a deeply personal one. Having navigated the creative world as a multidisciplinary entrepreneur, Ismène understands firsthand the challenges of thriving outside traditional academic structures. 

In the Q&A below, Ismène opens up about her own experience at a CLOCK Sector Expert Bootcamp, revealing how the program helped her embrace her diverse background as an undeniable strength and why trusting the value of your unique story changes everything.

Here is what Ismène had to say about their transformative experience. 

Why did you decide to join the Sector Expert Bootcamp?

“Formal education never fit me. I built my life at a very young age as a singer, theatre maker and now many years later as a visual artist, alongside many years of creative and project work. CLOCK finally gave me recognition for all those disciplines and experiences together, when I was able to join CLOCK, it felt like a dream come true.”


What surprised you most about the programme or about yourself during the process?

“I used to think being multidisciplinary made me harder to define. CLOCK showed me it’s my actual strength. Learning by doing, in art and in all my work,  is real knowledge. I gained self-awareness about my knowledge and skills and more, that was the biggest gift towards myself.”


What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of joining the programme?

“We are never too old to learn, we do it daily. Bring your whole story, your art and all your experience and trust that it all has value. The CLOCK program and it’s people helps you see the bigger picture and gain recognition for the way you really learn by creating, working, and reflecting.”


We are incredibly grateful to Ismène for sharing her inspiring journey and for reminding us all that learning is a lifelong, daily practice. Ismène’s story is a powerful testament to the value of bringing your whole, authentic self to the table, and a beautiful reflection of what CLOCK’s community stands for. Thank you for your dedication to bridging gaps, championing inclusivity, and inspiring the next generation of creative thinkers.

Are you thinking about taking the leap and joining our next Sector Expert Bootcamp? 

To learn more about the Sector Expert programme and see how CLOCK is empowering creatives worldwide, visit our Programme Page or Get in touch with our team.