Young people formed the nonprofit Leuven Draait to provide a platform for young creative talent in Flanders, with an emphasis on those from the province of Flemish Brabant, where the small university city is located. Every two years, Leuven Draait will organise a contest in five categories: music, photography, film, cartoon and word.

The first edition took place in 2007; this year enthusiasts were invited to send in their work for consideration for the second time. Every category was deliberated by a specialised jury, and throughout the year, multiple winners in each category are announced. They won prize monies but also workshops or a trip to a festival – awards to encourage further artistic development.

All 23 winners are also invited to showcase their talents at the Eindfeest. The winners in the photography and cartoon categories are preparing an exhibition that will be unveiled at the historic Molens Van Orshoven. Afterwards, the show will travel to different locations in Leuven. Winners of the music and word categories, meanwhile, will perform live for an audience for the first time. Merrymakers will also get a chance to see the winning movies in the film category.

Last year, more than 1,500 entertainment- seekers came to Leuven to celebrate Brabant’s budding talent. They were drawn by the free entrance, no doubt, but also to the energetic, joyful atmosphere and the varied programme.

This year, a few established artists were invited as guest performers. On Saturday, stand-up comedian Seppe Toremans (a member of the jury in the word discipline) debuts his new show Cut!, which is but a warm-up for Sunday, when spoken word artists and DJs liven up the final party of photography, film and cartoons at the Molens.

18-19 September

Saturday: 20.30, Studio Leuven

Sunday: Molens Van Orshoven

www.leuvendraait.be