My thanks to Screenskills_HETV_2023/24 and now 2024/25.

I want to extend my thanks to Screenskills for taking me on this year in their much coveted trainee scheme.

It's been a shame that the Writers and Actors stride has impacted many of us and I am hoping I can stay on for one more year as I am so close coupled with a strong CV to catch peoples attention.

So I wanted to write a short essay as to why I want to stay in this industry.

1. Challenges Preventing Career Progression:

In my career journey, several factors have at times presented challenges to my progression. These include:

- **Limited Networking Opportunities:** It took me the longest time to understand the power of networking, and luckily I have been able to get onto the Screenskills High End TV Scheme for 2023/24 and I am the Sarah Putt's Foundation scheme. '

I have also been lucky to be with Four Corners, a film and photography charity that helped me immensely with my confidence and skills in planning, producing, shooting and editing a short 'Home page' 'About Us' video for assisting their canvassing for funding.

There have been instances when personal circumstances required me to take breaks from my career, impacting the continuity of my professional development.

2 **Improving Representation in Editing Sector:

Being selected for any editing trainee position would contribute to improving wider representation within the editing sector in several ways:

3 - **Diversity:** Inclusion in this industry would bring diversity to the editing sector, representing a different perspective and voice. This diversity is essential for reflecting a broader range of experiences and stories in the content we will eventually create.

4. **Inspiration for Others:** My selection could serve as an inspiration to individuals who have faced similar challenges in realizing their ambitions. It can demonstrate that with determination, hard work, and the right opportunities, anyone can pursue a career in unscripted editing, regardless of their background or location.

5. **Overcoming Obstacles to Realize Ambitions:**

In my case, their have been some barriers in realising my ambition to work in scripted editing. Additionally, career breaks have also affected the continuity of my professional journey.

However, my passion for this field, coupled with a strong commitment to learning and growing, has kept me motivated. I've actively sought opportunities to gain experience through online courses, freelance work, and networking events. Being chosen for any program would represent a significant step forward in overcoming these obstacles and realizing my ambitions, as it would provide the structured guidance and mentorship needed to break into the industry and build a fulfilling career in unscripted TV editing.

In conclusion, while I have faced challenges in my career progression, I am determined to overcome them and contribute to improving representation within the editing sector. If given the opportunity, I am committed to making the most of it and being an advocate for others who share similar obstacles in their pursuit of a career in scripted TV editing.