Natalie Melton is the Executive Director of the Crafts Council, where she has held senior leadership roles since 2019. She previously co‑founded and led The New Craftsmen, championing contemporary craft across the British Isles, and earlier served as Commercial Director at Arts & Business, developing the Crafted mentoring programme for makers. She is a trustee of People United, an award‑winning charity dedicated to care‑centred creative work with communities.

Jen Roberts is the CEO of Design Miami/, the global platform for collectible design with fairs in Miami Beach, Paris, Seoul, and Aspen. She oversees the organisation’s international expansion, exhibitions, digital initiatives, and collaborations. Her previous roles include Co‑Executive Director of the Salon Art + Design fair and founding publisher of MODERN magazine. She is also a member of the Meridian Center for Cultural Diplomacy.

Dr Frances Parton is a curator and historian specialising in decorative arts, with a focus on metalwork and jewellery. She is a curator at the Goldsmiths’ Company, responsible for its historic and contemporary collections, and is the author of several recent publications on jewellery and design. Her previous posts include roles at the V&A, the Fitzwilliam Museum, the National Trust, and English Heritage. She lectures widely and serves on advisory committees within the craft sector.

Ruth Ribeaucourt is an Irish‑born creative polymath and Editor in Chief of FAIRE magazine. Her career spans jewellery design, writing, photography, and creative direction, with work published internationally. After beginning her career with Walt Disney Studios, she established a long‑standing practice in France centred on storytelling, collaboration, and community. She leads creative retreats and programmes that support and amplify the work of makers and artists worldwide.

Corinne Julius is a journalist, critic, and curator specialising in contemporary craft and design. She lectures at leading arts institutions, mentors mid‑career makers, and has judged numerous craft and design awards. A member of the Goldsmiths’ Company Contemporary Craft Committee, she has curated major exhibitions including Silver Speaks: Idea to Object and Bloomin’ Jewels. She is the founder‑curator of Future Heritage, one of the UK’s key annual showcases for contemporary craft.

Rabih Hage is a RIBA‑chartered architect and interior designer known for a human‑centred approach that seamlessly blends both disciplines. His international portfolio includes landmark projects such as the Rough Luxe Hotel in London and The Chilterns development in Marylebone. Drawing inspiration from his clients, he creates spaces defined by warmth, clarity, and a refined sense of volume, structure, light, and colour. His work has received numerous industry awards, and he was named a Chevalier in the Ordre National du Mérite by the French Republic for his contributions to design. He divides his time between London, New York, and the south of France.

The deadline for submissions has been extended to Monday 30th March. See link for more information and the application page. Please feel free to share with any contacts who may be interested, or who you think would be strong candidates.

https://www.rabih-hage.com/bursary

https://www.rabih-hage.com/bursary-application-2026

Note to Editors:

About the Rabih Hage Bursary
The Rabih Hage Bursary was established to promote diversity and inclusion within the creative industries, seeking out talented individuals in need of support. By providing financial assistance, mentorship, and access to a network of collectors, patrons, and industry professionals, the bursary aims to empower emerging designers and makers to realise their full potential.

If you would like any more information please email us.