Trojan Horse Was a Unicorn returns
André Luís, founder of THU, talks this year’s event, featuring six action-packed days filled with exciting opportunities designed to inspire and foster your creativity
We get the lowdown from THU’S founder on this year’s event
“WE ALL HAVE DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS, SO EACH OF US ADDS SOMETHING UNIQUE TO THIS COMMUNITY” André Luís, founder, Trojan Horse Was a Unicorn
The world continues to be a somewhat strange place as we work through what this new normal looks like. But something that has remained constant, regardless of our circumstances, is our need for creativity, inspiration and connection. And that’s what THU is here to deliver. For those of you who don’t know us, we’re Trojan Horse Was a Unicorn, or THU for short. And we live up to the cool name by empowering creatives through education, opportunities and community, both at our Main Event and throughout the year. This year we’re excited to host a safe, live Main Event in Tróia, Portugal on 20-25 September, and we can’t wait to tell you all about it!
First off, who is THU for? It’s for creators from all areas of the digital entertainment and interactive industry. We all have different backgrounds, career goals and dreams, so each of us adds something unique to this community, our Tribe. What’s the Main Event all about?
The people. It’s about bringing together creatives from across the world, for six action-packed days of talks, mentorships, activities and connections. And an art gallery as well! No egos, formalities or a**holes allowed. Here, no matter who you are or what stage of your career you’re at, you’re encouraged to mingle with and talk to anyone and everyone. Industry leaders from VFX, video games, animation, VR/AR, illustration and more are here to share their insights and likewise, be inspired by yours. Whether you’re a shy introvert, exuberant creative, or the wealth in between, we want you to feel at home with us. And we provide the safe supportive environment that helps foster that. Here lifelong friendships are formed and selflimiting inhibitions are shed. We see you. And we’re here to help you discover your inner magic.
Looking for a job or a new career path? The two first days of the event are dedicated to recruitment, where the best companies in the industry seek out talent in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for freelance work, partners for a new project, a portfolio review or to build your network, we’ve got you covered. And once that’s done, the talks and activities pick up. From 9AM to 2AM, there’s always something inspiring going on. But don’t take our word for it, reach out on our social channels and see what others have to say. We have an exciting list of speakers joining us this year, with Amy Aniobi, writer, director and executive producer on HBO’S Emmy-nominated comedy Insecure, and Kris Pearn, animation director and producer at Sony Pictures Animation, already announced, and more updates coming soon!
Our Tribe is what’s most important to us, and keeping them safe is paramount. Cancelling the Main Event last year (the first time in eight years that we’ve done so) was what was needed. This year, taking into consideration many of the same questions we considered back then, in addition to new ones, we’re proud and excited to be able to host a safe in-person event in Tróia. What does that look like? Everyone attending the event (staff included) must fulfill the requirements used to obtain an EU Digital COVID Certificate. In addition, there will be another round of testing before checkin at the Main Event and only participants who receive negative test results will be able to attend. And of course, we’ll be following government guidelines for social distancing and safety at the event itself. We’ve also made an exception to our normal policies, enabling fully refundable tickets (except service fees) until 30 August, no questions asked. In these trying times, it’s our way of saying we understand your concerns. We are here for you.
Every year our Main Event has a different theme, as each event tells a different story. The theme for this year is ‘A Quest for Roots’. Over the past few years we’ve been on a journey with our Tribe, unlocking new views of the world and riding this rollercoaster of a pandemic. In doing so, we’ve discovered the true meaning of being together. Stepping away and being forced to pause helped us realise that home was never a place. And so, our quest for roots has come to an end. Our home is our Tribe, the seed of all things, setting roots wherever we go. So come join us, be embraced for all that you are and leave refreshed and inspired.
We look forward to welcoming you to Portugal in September.