Charlie Wainwright
BA Journalism, Leeds Trinity University
Current Role: Shooting Assistant Producer
My role currently stretches across two main areas - shooting with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance for our series Yorkshire Air 999 and working in development to pitch and cast new programme ideas.
What specific barriers did you face as a member of (insert minority group), and how did you navigate these challenges?
What were the most critical steps you took to enter the creative industry after graduation?
Applying everywhere and anywhere! When entering the land of TV it's often about who you know - but not everyone knows someone! So I made it my mission to try and secure work experience everywhere I could, entered into local film festivals with my student film, followed people on socials and went to free networking events I found on Facebook!
Can you describe a portfolio piece or project that significantly helped you land your current job?
My student short film help me to meet more people working in TV - I put the film forward for a local film festival and made sure to introduce myself to everybody I could, and swap details!
What specific skills did you find most valuable in your early career, and how did you develop them?
People skills, people skills, people skills! In TV it's not about dressing the smartest or knowing the most - it's about bringing stories to life and getting the most out of people in front and behind the camera. The way to get the best work is to make people comfortable, respect their boundaries and share their life stories.
What networking methods did you find most effective when building connections in your industry?
Facebook was hugely important for me when starting to network - local Facebook groups such as "TV Talent North" which I still use to this day, other groups that were more specifically aimed for people first getting into TV. LinkedIn is also a good one now - connect with the people who's roles you aspire to have, follow local companies. Getting your name out there is half the battle!
What resources or support networks were most helpful to you as a (insert minority group) professional in the creative industry?
Deaf and Disabled People in TV is a great resource - I found it really comforting and inspiring to read stories of other people who struggle with their health in the industry. Plus if I ever need advice there's over 2.5K people in there who can offer a listening ear.