A significant part of my character was shaped through years of training in theatre and acting. It taught me how to work collaboratively, using my own strengths to support a wider team while recognising when to step back and allow others to shine. It also taught me to take direction, even when it is challenging, and to trust that someone with a wider view of the project may see things that I cannot. Theatre demanded resilience too: handling rejection, repetition, long days and constant feedback while continuing to give my best.
Perhaps most importantly, acting taught me empathy, imagination and the value of play. Stepping into different characters and perspectives gave me a strong appreciation for people whose experiences may be very different from my own, and reinforced the importance of kindness and acceptance. At the same time, years of examinations, festivals and competitions developed a genuine desire to achieve and a determination to give my all. I learned that hard work and ambition are important, but so are curiosity, silliness and finding enjoyment in what you do. Some of the best ideas come when people feel free to experiment, play and think differently.
Exploring art in its many forms, from fashion and photography to sculpture and painting, has shaped the way I approach creative work. It taught me the importance of seeing something through to completion. You cannot fully understand how something works, what could be improved, or what you might do differently next time until you have finished it. Completing the process, rather than endlessly second-guessing, is often where the most valuable learning happens.
Working across different mediums has also allowed me to develop a strong aesthetic eye and an appreciation for different styles, perspectives and ways of communicating an idea. I have learned to enjoy the process of exploring these differences while also developing an instinct for when something is finished. Good creative work is often about building in layers, knowing what to add and, just as importantly, recognising when enough is enough. Art has taught me patience: some things cannot be rushed, and the best results come from giving an idea the space it needs to develop.
Today, I would describe myself as a patient, creative and curious person with a genuine love of learning. I have an insatiable curiosity about the world and am happiest when I am discovering something new. Whether that means taking part in a workshop, visiting somewhere I have never been, starting a project or simply having a conversation with someone new.
There is still so much of life I have yet to explore, and I find that exciting rather than daunting. I enjoy following my curiosity, trying new things and finding inspiration in unexpected places. More than anything, I have a real appreciation for the small joys in life and a desire to keep exploring, learning and making the most of them.
Venice, 2017
