What is your current role and what does it involve? 
As a Production Manager across BBC Studios Documentaries, I oversee the financial, operational and logistical elements of the production. I work alongside the editorial team to bring their content vision to life. Ensuring that the day to day running from pre- to post-production is smooth and on target to meet deadlines, delivery and keeping to budget whilst not compromising on quality and editorial ambition.
 
What were you doing before MAMA Youth Project and what was life like? 
I had graduated from university and was consistently applying for media roles, opportunities that could help get me through the door, but it was going nowhere! I had a pretty rocky childhood which meant my support system was limited. I always had the ambition in my heart but not quite the tools to get there. MAMA Youth recognised that ambition within me, nurtured it and got me onto the springboard I needed in order to launch my career.
 
What were your career expectations before MYP?
I wasn’t sure, I just knew I wanted to work in the media industry. I suppose given my naivety at the time I didn’t quite realise the depths of where I could go, and I certainly didn’t think I’d be capable of gaining a job at the BBC.
 
Would you recommend the training to others and why?
100% it’s like a bootcamp for production. There is nowhere else that gives you a full breakdown from start to finish of what is expected across broadcast production, whilst being in a genuine media role as a trainee. Having that first-hand experience as a trainee researcher, offline editor, production manager is invaluable, whilst creating viable content that you can be proud of.

How long did it take you to secure your first role in the industry?
I was lucky enough to be selected by a BBC talent manager who asked to meet for a coffee and then put me forward for a PMA position as soon as I had finished the scheme.
 

 
What's your career journey been like since?
After roughly a year of employment at the BBC, I was extremely fortunate in gaining a permanent role at BBC Studios and so I have had a pretty steady career, going from a Production Management Assistant to a Production Coordinator to a Junior Production Manager and now a Production Manager in documentaries.
 
How important is it to be part of the alumni community and to have the ongoing support of MYP and its talent management?
Extremely, I think it’s important to remember where you started and also keep in touch with fellow alumni, we are the future and if we stay connected, we will have a robust and thriving media community amongst ourselves, especially as we go up the ranks.

They say it’s about who you know right, well what if WE are the who?!
 
What advice would you give to young people trying to break into the media industry?
Keep going, keep persevering, there will be moments when it feels so far out of reach, but I promise you, as long as you continue to have that drive and fire in your heart, you will be unstoppable.

What has been the personal impact of MAMA Youth on your life and career journey?
I am where I should be, and I am not sure that would have been the case had MAMA Youth not have been behind me.
 
Why is MAMA Youth a charity worth supporting and how important is its impact on young people?
Because its continuously breaking glass ceilings and putting real home-grown talent on the map that would have otherwise been overlooked. Supporting those who don’t believe they should be at the table, making them realise their worth and power, and the skills, confidence, media knowledge acquired that then equips a person with all the tools they need in order to make their dream a reality.

We are worthy and we deserve a seat at the table.