Derby’s Surtal Arts receives Civic Community Funding for inspiring projectwith Derby-born international break dancer Karam Singh

Derby’s Surtal Arts have announced they have received a grant from the University of Derby’s Civic Community Fund for a new event which will be rolled out to young people in 2026. The ‘Inspire’ events features Derby-born Karam Singh, better known as Kid Karam, and will launch Surtal Arts ‘Urban Asia’ programme.

Karam Singh began breaking with Derby’s Trinity Warriors and was soon competing in national events such as the UK B-Boy Championships, where he was the youngest participant. Inspired by a fierce ambition, Karam has since garnered international recognition in competitions across the globe, including becoming Britain's first-ever breaker; winning silver at the European Championships 2022 and as a member of Team GB at the European Games in Krakow in June 2023, where he reached the quarter-finals. In addition, Karam was the first ever male breaking athlete for global sports brand Nike and lead actor and dance in Sky’s ‘Breaking Point’.

A series of ‘Inspire’ events will take place in Derby schools, with an introduction to Karam's professional life and achievements; including what initially inspired him to get into breaking and the challenges he has overcome along the way; his tips for a successful career as an artist in 2026 and advice for young people forging their own career paths. The ‘Inspire’ events are funded by the University’s Civic Community Fund and will be part of a wider series of events called Urban Asia, funded by Arts Council England, which aims to develop local diverse talent.

Any schools wishing to be involved by hosting an Inspire talk with Karam Singh should contact: kathy@surtalarts.co.uk

Nathan Geering, Surtal Artistic Director, said “Karam's inspirational talks and demonstrations kick off Surtal Arts’ new ‘Urban Asia’ programme; which aims to develop local talent and nurture them into internationally recognised artists. We hope to show ambition and positive change through culture by showcasing the career of Derby-born Karam Singh; both as an excellent role model and inspiring Derby’s young people. Through our programme of activity, including ‘Urban Asia’, Surtal continues to champion the arts as a driver for excellence, helping to grow the creative and cultural ecology of Derby and Derbyshire; celebrating diversity and positive identity within our communities.”

The full Urban Asia programme, including music and dance training for young people, will be announced soon.

The University of Derby Civic Community Fund supports local groups, organisations and individuals across Derby and Derbyshire. As well as receiving seed funding from the University of Derby, successful applicants are invited to work closely with researchers and other experts at the University to profile and share their work within the wider civic community.

Rhiannon Jones, Professor of Civic and Communities at the University of Derby, said: “The University of Derby is proud to be a civic institution that is committed to working closely with local communities and stakeholders to fulfil its Civic University Agreement.”

“The Civic Community Fund enables us to offer tailored support to local groups and individuals whose work can benefit from the expertise that the University can provide. We want to work with people who see value in lasting partnerships and who are eager to develop their projects with our experts to make a real difference both to the region and the communities within in.”