Getting to know... Julia Handelman-Smith

In the latest instalment of Bdaily’s Getting to know... feature, which looks at the person behind the business profile, Julia Handelman-Smith, programme director at North East-based cultural partnership project Into the Light, talks about her passion for creativity, helping schoolchildren understand the First World War during her time as a British Council cultural diplomat and her love of wild swimming.

We know you as the programme director at Into the Light, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick… 

Creativity has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. 

Growing up, I played the cello, which sparked a real love of the arts and eventually led me to study music at Durham University. 

As a teenager, I also had a weekend job in a museum, so I constantly found myself immersed in creative environments one way or another. 

That early exposure naturally shaped the direction I took when it came to my career path. 

I feel incredibly lucky to have turned something I’ve always loved into the work I do every day.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst?

The best is the opportunity to learn and collaborate with such imaginative, inspiring people. 

It’s a privilege to work with talented people and contribute to cultural projects that make a difference. 

The biggest challenge is one many in the sector will recognise: underfunding. 

Despite contributing nearly £150 billion to the UK economy, the creative industries continue to face significant financial pressure. 

We often have to advocate for the value of our work, even though its impact is clear.

That is exactly what Into the Light is working to address. 

By creating opportunities, unlocking funding and supporting artists and organisations to develop new work, the programme is actively investing in the sector and helping it to grow, even within challenging constraints.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

I have been fortunate to have several proud moments in my career, but one that stands out is my time as a cultural diplomat for the British Council, leading international programmes to mark the centenary of the First World War.

I organised an event that brought together schoolchildren from across Europe, including County Durham. 

Watching them share their creativity and perspectives with such confidence on an international stage was incredibly moving. 

Knowing I had played a small part in creating that opportunity meant a lot, and it is something I will always carry with me.

How do you relax outside of work?

Even outside of work, my passion for the arts doesn’t switch off; I am still a keen cellist and love composing music.

I also love spending time outdoors, and County Durham makes that really easy. 

Whether it’s fresh air in Hamsterley Forest or the Durham Dales, or a trip to the coast, you don’t have to go far to find something completely different. 

I’m always drawn back to the county’s heritage side; places like Beamish and The Bowes Museum are a big part of what makes it so special.

What makes the North East such a great place to live and work?

I grew up between the Midlands and South Shields, but always felt drawn to the North East.

After studying in Durham, being based here feels like a real homecoming. 

The North East is a beautiful part of the country; it is rich in culture, with an eclectic mix of coast, countryside and vibrant cities. 

What really sets it apart, though, are its people. 

There is a genuine warmth and friendliness here, and a strong sense of community that makes it a fantastic place to live and work.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know...

I am a keen wild swimmer.

There is nothing quite like being out in nature and braving the cold water to feel completely revitalised.

I highly recommend it.

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