Ebony is a Filmaking graduate from Manchester Metropolitan University. She secured a Trainee TV Researcher role for Studio Lambert in the 4Skills Trainee Programme through Bright Network. 
First, we’d love for you to tell us a little bit about yourself.
“I always wanted to work in television and film since I was really young. I was always obsessed with behind the scenes featurettes and knew I wanted to get involved.
I struggled with school a lot due to my mental health, my grades were decent but I struggled with anxiety and had to drop out of college. I never imagined that I would be able to go to university but after the pandemic I made it my goal and began to leave my comfort zone more often.
I studied filmmaking and started looking for opportunities when I found Bright Network and applied for a LOT of things, which I’m so glad I did as I now have a year's long trainee role as a TV researcher.”
What was the application process like?
“It was really fun, the questions were interesting and it felt like the questions I was being asked were relevant to the role.
The initial application had 3 paragraph style questions and then 3 video questions. Then I received a letter inviting me to the interview with information on what to expect to be asked and what to prepare.
I was asked to watch certain content and get knowledgeable on the role and the company. I was nervous about the interview, but it was really casual and everyone was kind.”
How did Bright Network help you secure your role?
“I used the filter tools to find opportunities in my chosen sector and desired location and came across the opportunity that way!”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“I’m most proud of getting over the feeling of imposter syndrome. When I was going through the interview process, I felt like I didn’t deserve the opportunity or that there were people better than me, so I never expected to be selected for the job.
I was able to get over that hurdle and remind myself that I deserve to be in that room as much as everyone else.”
What have you learned from going through the process?
“I’ve learned that it’s really important to apply and take opportunities as they come, as it’s better to take a rejection and learn from the experience than to regret never applying.”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“The best advice I received from a friend was to apply for everything.
Lacking confidence doesn’t mean you lack experience or knowledge, so just be open to learning and employers will thank you for that.
Also, I’d recommend networking! Talk to everyone and take every experience as an opportunity to meet and learn from professionals.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in and moving back to Manchester. It’s going to be such a great challenge for me and I’m going to learn so much and meet so many people in the industry!”
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