Flash Company Arts is proud to share that its founder, Rebecca Denniff, has been named in the King’s Birthday Honours List as a recipient of the British Empire Medal (BEM) for exceptional services to music education.
This national honour recognises decades of work supporting young people and communities through creative music-making, performance, and inclusive, community-rooted arts practice. Based in Whitby, Flash Company Arts has become known for its commitment to reaching those often excluded from mainstream opportunities and for its nurturing, youth-led approach to arts engagement.
The award also acknowledges the challenges overcome by Rebecca in bringing this work to life, including the social and structural barriers faced by many working-class and rurally based women.
Reflecting on the award, she shared:
“This kind of recognition is never something I imagined. It’s not something I’ve ever worked toward or expected. But when I saw that the award was specifically for music education, and for the work we do through Flash Company Arts, I felt I had to accept it – not for myself, but for everyone who’s been part of this journey.
As a northern, working-class woman who has lived through domestic violence, and the isolation that comes with being a rurally based parent to children with disabilities, I know how often opportunities and recognition are out of reach for people like me. To have the work we’ve done in Whitby acknowledged in this way means more than I can easily put into words.
This medal may have my name on it, it belongs to many. To the young people who’ve trusted us with their creativity. To the artists who’ve walked alongside us. To the communities who’ve welcomed and supported what we do. And to every individual who’s helped make space for our work to thrive.”
Flash Company Arts continues to work at the heart of its community, championing inclusive, accessible, and creative opportunities for all. This recognition marks a powerful milestone in that journey.
Flash Company Arts 