About your Film Career to date:

I graduated in July 2025 from Queen’s University Belfast, stepping out of film school with a solid grounding in both the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking. During my time at university, I developed core skills in camera operation, editing, sound, and storytelling, gaining hands-on experience through practical projects, collaborative productions, and critical study of film. This environment allowed me to experiment, make mistakes, and refine my creative instincts while learning how to work effectively as part of a crew.

Since graduating, I’ve continued to build on that foundation through work on music videos, where I’ve been able to apply and expand my skill set in real-world production environments. These projects have strengthened my ability to translate ideas into visual form, sharpened my sense of pacing and rhythm in editing, and deepened my understanding of how music and imagery interact. Working on sets has also developed my problem-solving skills, adaptability, and communication, as I’ve had to navigate tight schedules, shifting creative direction, and collaborative decision-making.

Through both my academic experience and my professional work, I’ve gained practical knowledge of the full production process, from initial concept development through to final delivery. I’ve learned not just how to use equipment and software, but how to think like a filmmaker: how to plan effectively, respond creatively to challenges, and bring a cohesive vision to life. Although I’m still at the beginning of my career, this period has and continues to be crucial in shaping my voice, building confidence, and laying the groundwork for a growing portfolio that reflects both my technical ability and creative ambition.

What challenges have you faced? How have you overcome them

At the same time, this period hasn’t been without its challenges. Entering the industry straight after graduation, I quickly became aware of how competitive and uncertain the graduate job market can be. Opportunities don’t always come consistently, and building a career can feel slow and unpredictable. Alongside this, I’ve experienced imposter syndrome - questioning my abilities and whether I truly belong in professional spaces, especially when surrounded by more experienced crew members.

I’ve also, at times, felt overshadowed as a woman working in an industry that can still be male-dominated, particularly in technical roles. There have been moments where I’ve had to work harder to have my voice heard or to feel fully included in decision-making processes.

However, I’ve worked to overcome these challenges by staying persistent and proactive. Rather than waiting for opportunities, I’ve continued to seek out projects, build connections, and gain as much on-set experience as possible. I’ve learned to reframe imposter syndrome by recognising that growth comes from being in environments that challenge me, and that not knowing everything is part of the process, not a failure.

To address feelings of being overlooked, I’ve focused on building confidence in my skills and speaking up more assertively when contributing ideas. I’ve also found value in connecting with other women in the industry, drawing support and inspiration from shared experiences. Over time, these steps have helped me feel more secure in my place within the industry.

Through these struggles, I’ve developed resilience, self-belief, and a stronger sense of identity as a filmmaker. While the path hasn’t been straightforward, these experiences have shaped not only my professional growth but also my confidence in navigating the challenges of the industry as I continue to build my career.

What are your career ambitions? What is your plan to get there?

Looking ahead, my ambition is to establish myself within the film industry as a confident and capable filmmaker, with a particular interest in developing my own creative voice through visually driven work. I want to continue working on music videos while also moving into narrative filmmaking, where I can tell more in-depth and personal stories. Ultimately, I aim to take on greater creative responsibility, whether that be directing, cinematography, or leading projects from concept through to completion. My end goal is to become the woman I would have looked up to as a young girl interested in filmmaking.

To get there, I plan to keep building my portfolio with a range of projects that reflect both my technical ability and creative style. I will continue gaining on-set experience where possible, learning from others, and refining my craft with each opportunity. Networking and maintaining strong working relationships will be key, as well as seeking out collaborations that challenge and inspire me. I also aim to stay open to learning, whether through observing industry professionals, experimenting with new techniques, or developing my own independent projects. Step by step, I’m working towards building a sustainable career that allows me to create meaningful, visually engaging work while continuing to grow as a filmmaker.

What tips and advice do you have for those also on a similar journey trying to establish their film careers?

If I were giving advice to others on a similar journey, I’d say that the most important thing is to stay persistent, even when things feel slow or uncertain. This is easier said than done, but breaking into the film industry, especially straight after graduating, can be challenging, and the lack of consistent opportunities can be discouraging. But progress isn’t always immediate, and every small project or connection adds up over time.

I’d also say don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back. It’s something I’ve struggled with myself, especially when stepping onto professional sets for the first time. It’s easy to feel like you don’t belong, but the reality is that everyone is learning, and being in those environments is exactly how you grow. Trust that your skills and perspective have value, even if you’re still developing them.

Another key piece of advice is to be proactive. Opportunities don’t always come to you and you often have to go out and find them. That might mean reaching out to collaborators, saying yes to smaller projects, or putting your own work together independently. The more you do, the more experience you gain, and the more confident you become.

I’d also encourage people, especially women entering the industry, to speak up and back themselves. There can be moments where you feel overlooked or overshadowed, but your voice and ideas are important. Building confidence takes time, but pushing yourself to contribute and be heard makes a real difference.

Most importantly, remember that you’re not alone in this. So many people at this stage are feeling the same uncertainty, self-doubt, and pressure to succeed. We’re all figuring it out as we go, and there’s real strength in that shared experience. Supporting each other, collaborating, and being honest about the challenges can make the journey feel far less isolating.

Finally, I’d say be open to learning in every situation. Whether you’re on a large set or a small shoot, there’s always something to take away - about the craft, about teamwork, and about yourself. Stay curious, stay adaptable, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. They’re all part of the process of becoming a better filmmaker.