Arts and Culture Programme AM25

Tom Daley is the world’s biggest name in diving and one of Great Britain’s most successful sportspeople of all time. Becoming European Champion by winning his first diving gold at the age of 13, the youngest person to ever do so, Daley went on to win five Olympic medals in five Olympics, representing Team GB at the 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020 and most recently the 2024 Paris Games. When Daley won his first gold at Tokyo 2020, images of him knitting poolside circulated the globe, with his dedicated knitting Instagram account, @Madewithlovebytomdaley gaining 1 million followers overnight. Dubbed the “Tom Daley effect” by The Guardian, all eyes were on what he would knit at Paris 2024 as he brings a whole new audience to the craft. An LGBTQ+ activist, Daley has used his platform to propel the conversation on LGBTQ+ rights. From fundraising initiatives for LGBTQ+ charities to wearing Pride badges as he stepped on to the podium in countries where it’s illegal to be gay, the Commonwealth Games in 2022 saw Daley appeal to the Commonwealth Heads of Governments to better their LGBTQ+ laws by carrying a Progress Pride flag in the opening ceremony. Daley is a multi-Sunday Times best-selling author, founder of knitting brand bytomdaley.com, three-time BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year winner and an OBE recipient.Gary Tyler is a fibre artist based in Los Angeles, California, who has spent over 40 years at the intersection of art and social justice. He taught himself to quilt to support the Angola Prison Hospice programme, where he volunteered, and served for 30 years as President of the Angola Prison drama programme, fostering community, civic responsibility and optimism. At 16, Tyler was sentenced to death for a crime he didn’t commit, leading to his 42-year imprisonment at Angola State Penitentiary in Louisiana. His case sparked international outrage. Despite the injustice he faced, his art has become a powerful source of hope. Now residing in Los Angeles, Tyler dedicates his life to the visual and dramatic arts, using them to build community and heal the wounds of mass incarceration. He is a recipient of the Art Matters Award in 2019 and 2020, and his work is included in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. In 2024, he received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from the Massachusetts College of Art & Design, along with the Frieze Los Angeles Impact Prize, recognizing his significant contributions to society through art.Misty Copeland is a groundbreaking ballet dancer and a powerful advocate for diversity in the arts, renowned for her trailblazing achievements in a traditionally exclusive field. As the first African American woman principal dancer for the prestigious American Ballet Theatre, she has shattered barriers and redefined the narrative of ballet, inspiring countless aspiring dancers around the world. Copeland is also a passionate advocate for arts education and inclusion. She founded the Misty Copeland Foundation, dedicated to providing access and resources for underserved youth to pursue their dreams in dance and the arts. Through workshops, mentorship and scholarships, her foundation empowers the next generation of artists to thrive and express themselves. Copeland’s influence extends beyond the stage; she is a bestselling author and motivational speaker, sharing her story of perseverance and resilience in her memoir, Life in Motion. Her journey from a challenging childhood to the pinnacle of the ballet world, is a beacon of hope, illustrating the power of determination and self-belief. With her dynamic spirit and unwavering dedication, Copeland continues to inspire change and promote diversity within the arts, reminding us that talent knows no boundaries. Her legacy is not only in her artistry but also in her commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable future for all.Mohammed Saeed Harib is a visionary filmmaker, animator and storyteller whose creative prowess has captivated audiences worldwide. As the creator of the groundbreaking animated series, Freej, he has brought Arabic culture and storytelling to the forefront of the animation industry, combining humour with rich narratives that resonate deeply with viewers of all ages. With a passion for innovation, Harib founded UAE-based production company Lammtara, which has become a beacon for creative talent in the Middle East. His work not only entertains but also educates, fostering a greater understanding of Arab heritage and identity in a global context. Harib is dedicated to empowering the next generation of artists and animators, often mentoring young creatives and advocating for the importance of animation as a medium for cultural expression. Beyond his contributions to film and animation, Harib is a vocal advocate for the arts, promoting the role of creativity in social development and cultural dialogue. His projects often tackle important social issues, encouraging discussions on community, identity and the power of storytelling. With his dynamic vision and relentless drive, Harib continues to inspire and uplift through his work, paving the way for a new era of animation that celebrates diversity and creativity in the Arab world and beyond. Meet the Cultural Leaders 2025 Meet the Cultural Leaders 2025 Arts and Culture Programme Arts and Culture Programme Annual Meeting 2025 Annual Meeting 2025 32 33