Lara Lippin joined The Bright Foundation a month ago in the role of Assistant Producer. This is a six-month role funded by Artswork, through Breakthrough - a six month employability programme which exists to provide entry routes into the creative industry for 18–25 year olds. Here's a little from Lara about her experiences so far!

My First Month at The Bright Foundation

My first month at The Bright Foundation has been an amazing whirlwind of creativity and learning! Through the Breakthrough Programme run by Artswork, a charity that creates pathways into the creative industries for 18–25-year-olds, I was thrilled to be selected as Assistant Producer at The Bright Foundation for six months. As someone who grew up in Hastings and dreams of becoming a film producer, I often felt that a career in the arts wasn’t possible for me because of my background. After completing my English degree at the University of Bristol, I knew I wanted to gain hands-on experience producing creative projects within an organisation that inspires creativity alongside supporting the local community.

Working alongside Sophie Barnard, the Bright Foundation’s fantastic producer, I help to organise creative programmes, prepare venues, assist with events, provide administrative support, and encourage young people to get involved with the exciting opportunities the foundation offers. One of my highlights so far has been helping to plan and run the Benbow Youth Film Collective, which includes two groups of young people aged 11–14 and 15–19. Over nine weeks, participants collaborate to create their own films with support from filmmaker and educator Will Davies, Sarah Buller and other experienced industry professionals. More recently, I supported the BFI Film Academy Short Course, which took place during the October half-term. The participants explored every stage of filmmaking, from storyboarding and production to using professional filming equipment and editing software. It was inspiring to watch the group bring their ideas to life, even incorporating Hastings Castle into their final film, showcasing the wonderful locations our town has to offer filmmakers.

It’s been such a joy watching young people experiment with their ideas and develop their creative confidence. Supporting others as they discover their passion for film has reminded me how essential creative and inclusive spaces like The Bright Foundation are. They provide young people in Hastings and St Leonards with the confidence, skills, and opportunities to turn their imagination into reality.