Dr Ina Rateniek studied English and German Literature and Sociology. As a project manager she began to realize theatre festivals, conferences and art exhibitions for independent groups and city councils. For a private culture consulting company, she wrote feasibility studies and utilisation concepts, lead programs and accompanied studies that where situated at the interface of urban development, arts and culture. For several years her focus became arts education. Currently Ina Rateniek promotes private and public participation by managing the program “Third Places” for the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia. On behalf of municipalities and associations she also moderates cultural development processes.