John Mackender shares his experience as part of the 30-strong cohort in MAMA Youth's first Manchester based training.

"Before MYP, I had just graduated from the Manchester Film School, UCEN. I had gained a lot of skills there but had no way about breaking into the TV industry. During my last few weeks, I attended a talk led by MYP’s CEO Bob Clarke, which is when I first heard about the programme.

MYP appealed to me as someone with no contacts in the industry and was struggling to break in. In addition, as a working class person, living in the North, I did not believe a career in this industry was possible for me and since MYP strived to get young people from traditionally under-represented backgrounds into the industry, I applied immediately.

As a Video Editor Trainee, the course developed my skills and proficiency with editing software such as Premiere Pro. I also gained runner experience, and ran errands for the production trainers. The course was intense and I enjoyed the challenge of meeting the edit deadlines set for me whilst taking on notes and recutting.

In September, MYP helped me secure a runner job with Three Arrows Media for Discovery Education. My experience from the course gave me confidence performing my duties and knowing when to offer crew support in busy times. The role also included logging duties, which was a role I had expressed interest in. Three Arrows invited me the following day as a work experience placement to sit with their editor. I got to meet the editor, Charlie, and learn how he operates as a freelancer. The experience was invaluable.

Later, MYP helped me book a Day Runner job with Britain’s Got Talent for their weekend Producer’s Tour. MYP’s training to always be on your feet and be proactive in supporting crew helped me here since it was such a large-scale production. MYP further developed my experience for long, intense days which helped me keep up on this job.

Recently, MYP helped me into a long-term contract placement with Buzz 16, working on The Overlap sports entertainment YouTube channel. I am currently working as the Junior Social Media Editor. My experience with MYP editing content for online delivery as well as editing for a short deadline has been extremely beneficial so far. This has allowed me to easily enter the fast work turnaround environment that this job requires. The role also allows me to work as a runner on the fortnightly shoots, which is great for me since I enjoy working on sets despite my sights on building a career in post-production.

My friends and family are very supportive of what I have achieved and surprised (in a good way) as they know how hard it is to break in.

I’m glad charities like MYP exist as I think more young people should be taught about the industry, especially the practical side along with the many jobs that are a part of it. Charities like MYP are especially beneficial for being champions for diversity within the industry and help to give a platform to previously unheard voices. MYP is helping to bring about the change in the industry that is very much needed."