Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?
Hello! I’m Chérie.
And what is your role within the Creative Traineeship Programme?
I am the Development Trainee
What does a typical day look like for you?
Hmm, it’s different every day. One day, it will be a lot of admin work, replying to emails, sorting out expenses, posting mail, gathering research and on another, I would be helping out with events or attending internal or external meetings
What’s great about your job?
The fact that it is really helping me with my personal development. I’m exposed to many different opportunities, I love the fact that I am always being challenged and it is an amazing office to work at.
And what is something you find difficult or challenging?
At first, I found working every day from 9-5 quite difficult as it was my first 9-5 job, it took some time to get used to but I am finally used to it now.
How did you first get onto the programme?
I heard about it through the Prince’s Trust - a colleague who worked there told me to give it a go. But I also saw it at the Job Centre.
Why did you apply for the Creative Training Academy?
I wanted to do something different and creative, something that I have never done before. I wanted an opportunity to challenge myself and as soon as I heard about what the Creative Training Academy would be delivering, I knew that I couldn’t miss out!
What has been a highlight of your experience?
Ooh, my highlight would probably be speaking in front of the Trustee Board about the traineeship and just being picked as one of the seven trainees!
How have these opportunities helped you develop?
These opportunities have helped me develop in many different ways. I am more confident, I am more ambitious than I used to be, I have gained new transferrable skills and being in the Development role has made me realise that this is something that I would like to continue with in the future.
Do you now feel more confident in pursuing a career in your chosen field?
Definitely! I feel like I have finally found where I belong and I can definitely see room for progression.
Do you believe that opportunities like this are helpful for young people looking to get into a creative career or organisation?
Absolutely! I strongly believe that when organisations such as MIF, give young people a chance, it impacts them more than you think. It possibly could be helping a young person in their personal life, in their career, or simply providing them with skills that will be with them for a long time. It’s basically investing in young people and that is what more companies need to do especially at a time where the youth are exploring their creative sides more.
Was a creative career something you had considered before taking part in the Creative Training Academy?
I always wanted to do something creative but the opportunities were never really there.
You’ve been granted the ability to send a message to 16-year-old you. What do you say?
I would tell 16-year-old me to not worry too much about the future because it’s looking really bright. I’d also tell her to believe in herself a bit more, her ideas are never too big and just to know that it’s okay to step out of her comfort zone because that’s where she’ll grow the most.
Do you have any advice for young people interested in doing your kind of job?
Always be ready to learn and to put yourself out there. Enjoy the process because it’s an amazing one where you’ll see yourself grow and have fun with it!
In your opinion, what is ‘unmissable’ about MIF19?
Hmmm, all the shows and really cool events! Oh! And Festival Square!
We are releasing interviews from all seven MIF Creative Trainees throughout May. To read the others, click here.
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