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Lewis Mitchell

Category
Barriers
CLS Case Studies
First Generation
Freelance
Invisible Disabilities
Resilience
University of Leeds Graduate
Working Class
Date

Producer Director

BSc Sustainability and Environmental Management (Hons), University of Leeds (2018)

"The longer I've been here the more I realize no one has a bloody clue"

What barriers did you face when trying to get ahead in the Creative and Cultural Industries?

Lack of finances/support, lack of contacts and networks, lack of knowledge of the industry. Low confidence as it was never the sort of job I thought you could earn enough money to live on.

Looking back at your time at Uni, which experiences were most useful as you started to look for work and develop within your chosen profession?

Having the opportunity and taking it to get involved in additional, extra-curricular projects and activities. Research projects with lecturers, discovery modules, working with external organisations.

What have been the most challenging times since graduating?

Starting my first business 2 months before a global pandemic. I think a combination of luck, resilience and incredible support from our network got us through. This includes from the entrepreneurship support team - Spark - at the university, despite being Alumni at this point.

How do you deal with feelings of insecurity or imposter syndrome when entering the creative industry?

The longer I've been here the more I realize no one has a bloody clue. I think the key is not having a clue with confidence and figuring out how to learn quick and on the job.

What was the most useful piece of advice you’ve been offered during your career development? What advice would you offer students?

Don't feel pressured, like the career you're picking is it for the end of your life. Before this I was working in an education charity - but I learnt so much that I still use today.