Jessica Edwards

Jessica Edwards is the Head of Cultural Development at Nesta, an innovation foundation in the UK.12 She joined Nesta's Arts practice in July 2023 to support the development of innovation projects and partnerships within the sustainable future mission.13

Background and Experience

Jessica has a diverse background spanning television, documentary film, and non-profits.1 Some key points about her career:

• She spent the first 15 years of her career producing documentaries and factual television.1
• She later worked in strategic communications, leading projects for prominent NGOs.1
• For 5.5 years, she was the Director of Impact & Partnerships at Doc Society, where she initiated and led many key partnerships and projects.2
• At Doc Society, she helped establish the Climate Story Fund, supporting over 25 non-fiction film projects to maximize their creative and impact potential.2

Expertise and Focus

Jessica's work focuses on:

• The change-catalysing properties of culture and storytelling1
• Bridging the worlds of film, television, and non-profits2
• Cultural and narrative strategy, particularly related to climate storytelling and impact2
• Enabling cultural work that makes a tangible difference in people's lives2

Additional Roles and Qualifications

• Completed a Clore Fellowship in cultural leadership in 20222
• Tutor and member of the selection committee for Documentary Campus Masterschool2
• Qualified yoga teacher and relational dynamic coach2
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA)2
• Member of the newly formed Documentary Film Council2

In her role at Nesta, Jessica aims to apply new perspectives and disciplines to explore how culture can have a social impact, particularly in addressing challenges related to sustainability and climate change.12