Laura O'Shea
Laura O'Shea
MENTEE
Ireland
COHORT OF 2025
Mentor : Fiona Allan
My mission is to advance Ireland’s cultural impact through arts experiences, supporting artists and communities, expanding audiences, and driving operational efficiency and strategic change to keep the cultural heartbeat thriving.
I am currently the Business Development Coordinator at the Abbey Theatre, the National Theatre of Ireland. I hold an Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Drama and Sociology and a Postgraduate Qualification in Creative Arts Management. As an experienced and passionate artist, I am driven by finding creative, sustainable ways to strengthen the operations and impact of arts organisations.
My career journey has taken me from the stage to backstage, from intern to events, and now into sales and operations. Despite this varied path, my core passion has remained constant: ensuring that the creative arts industry not only survives but thrives. I am deeply committed to building structures that support artists and safeguard the essential role the arts play in communities globally. In the long run, I hope to contribute to a more stable, equitable, and resilient arts ecosystem - one in which the playfulness, wonder, and cultural value of the arts are never compromised by instability or lack of support.
I joined the 30UNDER30 Mentorship Programme to connect with creative professionals across the world and to celebrate the work that emerging leaders, including myself, are contributing to the sector. In an ever-changing world, programmes like 30UNDER30 that unite voices across ages, backgrounds, and disciplines offer invaluable opportunities for shared learning, collaboration, and growth.
My experience so far has exceeded my expectations. My time with my mentor Fiona Allan is a true testament to this who working with has been a privilege and a profound learning experience. We have intentionally mixed structured, project-based work with open, reflective conversations, allowing us to explore the industry from both international perspectives and offering the rare opportunity to discuss the industry from both a junior and a senior perspective. This balance has not only broadened my understanding of the sector but has also directly influenced positive changes in my day-to-day work and within the organisation I work for. Fiona’s insights, generosity, and thoughtful guidance have been instrumental in helping me find my long-term vision and develop practical strategies for achieving it.
The 30UNDER30 experience has been eye-opening, energising, and deeply affirming. It has provided a supportive global community, meaningful mentorship, and a space to challenge myself. It has truly been an honour to participate.