Faith explains, “The workshop was made up of women from all kinds of backgrounds but we all had one thing in common and that was the passion and drive towards Drama and Women's Politics which connected us all straight away. I got to devise my own ideas and bring them to life, I was placed in the social networking group and I was happy to be able to share knowledge as well as learn from others.” Faith continued, “I was privileged to have a tour of the parliament buildings but the most beneficial thing was actually interviewing all the different MLAs and Councillors as it really tested me. It was great seeing how people reacted to the questions. I learned a lot about the technical side of things and all the different aspects that go in to being able to broadcast a show whether it is live or recorded.
This project helped me with a lot of things, such as confidence, meeting new people and gaining knowledge but what I feel is that I have left with a sense of achievement and self-belief within myself as I have realised that if I work hard enough I can really see myself anywhere.”
On completion of the Level 2 Performing Arts course Faith hopes to progress to the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Performing Arts course, new to the Newtownabbey campus this September.
Belfast Lord Mayor, Nichola Mallon, welcomed the participants to Belfast City Hall as they began a week that taught them about filmmaking from script to screen while looking at social issues such as domestic abuse, social media and employment.
Councillor Mallon said: While some progress has been made in relation to gender equality, women remain a minority when it comes to politics in Northern Ireland so it is exciting to see an innovative project like this aimed at encouraging young women to consider what they could do to improve things.
“Film is a powerful media for influencing others and providing a voice that is easily understood. I know there was great competition to be accepted onto this project and I have no doubt we have some future female leaders taking part. I for one am looking forward to seeing the films they create.”
Sean Boyle, Cinemagic said “This is a wonderful opportunity for young women who are interested in developing filmmaking skills and who also feel passionately about politics. The project will offer a practical film experience as well as a platform for young people’s views to be heard.”
The ‘Reel Politics’ project is a partnership between Belfast City Council, the Northern Ireland Assembly and Cinemagic International Film and Television for Young People aimed at young women aged 16-25 years old.
