From the collection of short stories about ponies with magic powers written in glitter pens to the psychological thriller novel I wrote in middle school – creative writing has always been a staple of my life. The 120,000-word young adult novel completed in my final year of high school taught me how to imbue stories with emotional honesty… or more accurately, how not to. In that way I learnt the art of subtlety, and by forcing myself to write 1000 words a day, I was able to attest my genuine love for storytelling by my ability to see it through to completion.

My study and involvement in theatre allowed me insight into the nuance of performance and what traits might entice actors to a character. It also allowed me access into the creative process and I was eventually able to assist in the script department, adapting a film script to the stage.

Whilst studying a Bachelor of Media, I gravitated towards investigative journalism. This was spurred on by a desire to tell the side of the story that wasn’t being told and a passion for social justice – a quality that flows into my narrative work. The value of research adds significant weight to my pre-writing process as well.

Picking up a camera enabled me to capture moments of meaning, emotion and intent. Contained stories of their own. It is a valuable tool in my writing because it forces me to think visually – the way a film is actually consumed.

Nowadays I lend my camera to capturing behind the scenes on set, protest photography and creative concept photoshoots.

In my career in specialty photographic retail, both as Manager of a Camera House store and a dedicated photo lab – I have provided online content to promote events, products and services. This skillset lends itself to networking in the creative industries and pitching my own projects.