Give gen Z recruits the chance to reimagine museums

A first-class degree, countless hours volunteering and leading the only student-run gallery in the UK – the Norman Rea Gallery – felt like strong foundations for a career in museums.

However, like most graduates, I faced the stark reality of an incredibly competitive job market, where I became familiar with the line: “It is with regret, I inform you that your application has been unsuccessful.”

I knew what I was getting into. I spent three years studying English and history of art, and learned about the challenges organisations face. But I genuinely love this sector and have always wanted to play a part in making art accessible to all.

This article isn’t for the younger members of the museum workforce – it’s for mid-career professionals and senior-level leaders. I’m writing to those who have power and influence to create space for me and my peers. We are young, driven and creative individuals hoping to build meaningful careers in the sector.

Gen Z will make up 27% of the global workforce this year. Yet in the museum sector, we are often found in low-paid, part-time or casual roles with little opportunity for progression. We want to stay within the sector, but without investment, support and mentorship, many of us are asking whether we made the right choice.

After graduating, I returned home to Liverpool and secured a 14.5-hour visitor assistant role with National Museums Liverpool (NML). Wanting to make the most of a foot in the door, I proposed a guided trip around the Walker Art Gallery and Tate Liverpool for the members of the Norman Rea Gallery. I contacted Melissa Gustin, curator of British art at NML, to ask if she would take part. Her engaging, insightful and witty talk became the trip’s highlight, and participants were so grateful to hear her perspectives on a career within the sector. 

The experience with Melissa allowed me to showcase my initiative, planning and communication skills, and commitment to connecting people with art. Without that, I don’t think I’d have gained my role as a marketing and communications coordinator at the Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle.

Luckily, the museum has supported my growth since I joined at the start of the year. I’m part of an encouraging team that has always taken the time to answer my many questions and I’ve received training in photography, writing press releases and digital storytelling.

Our director Hannah Fox is keen to empower emerging professionals to take active roles in shaping our sector. That kind of support makes all the difference. But it needs to happen more widely

What I’m asking is simple: take a chance on us. Mentor us. Create a culture of growth. Give us projects and responsibilities that stretch us. The talent is there, the passion is real and the energy we bring can help reimagine how museums connect with audiences in an ever-changing world.

Amelia Stallworthy is a marketing and communications coordinator at the Bowes Museum in County Durham