Things have been hectic at the DiVA HQ, I’ve starred in my first movie (lol), organized and attended several events, our team has grown, new apprentices have joined and we’re on the hunt for a new office! Though I enjoyed my Christmas break it’s nice to get back to work.
So, important things first – my acting debut. I starred in a video showcasing the experiences of apprentices. The video was commissioned by the National Apprenticeship Service and has gone viral. There was a write up in the Evening Standard and my local press is interested in doing a piece on me, their local star! You can view the video here.
Team DiVA have grown. Annette Telesford has joined as our Apprenticeship Training Coordinator. We've also helped four young people secure apprenticeships in Design and Creative and Digital Media. It's lovely to see new faces and watch the team and business expand. Though our newfound numbers have us playing musical chairs in the office. We need to find a bigger office, sharpish. Get on it Bryony :). Moving on, the lead DiVA (Arit Eminue) has been sharing her words of wisdom this month. She spoke at an event called 'Be Your Own Boss' where she gave her top tips on building your business and dispelled the myths of multi-tasking. The turn out was great; her talk was really informative and engaging. I had made an awesome slideshow to go with it; unfortunately due to technical difficulties no one saw it. :( I'll save it for next time.
 |
| Doug Richards, Arit Eminue and Benedict Hazan |
We had another event, slightly different to the previous, called 'The Apprentice' open to start-ups interested in taking on apprentices or interns. Chaired by Doug Richards (ex-Dragon's Den judge, serious moneymaker& Founder of School for Start-Ups) Arit was joined by Benedict Hazan (Head of Innovation, Inspiring Interns) Bryony also said a few words. All speakers thoroughly explained what apprenticeships and internships were, how they could benefit a start up business and shared their opinions (this time my slideshow was seen :). It was held at The Hospital club in Covent Garden; it was a brilliant venue.
On to other news, I represented DiVA at a meeting at BAFTA along with a line up of senior executives across film and TV at BAFTA. The aim of the meeting was to brainstorm innovative ways to let young people know about the different job roles in films so they can make informed decisions about the education route they wish to take. Other topics included ideas on helping graduates secure employment that did not necessarily include working for free.
I found this meeting interesting, being someone currently going through the process of deciding which career path to take. It was a brilliant opportunity to network and be involved in a discussion that has great relevance to myself.
So what’s next?
Well, we have an event next week for businesses in Hackney looking to take on apprentices. We’re also planning events for National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) which takes place on the 11th-15th March. The purpose is to raise the profile of apprenticeships with employers and young people.
So far I’ll be flying the DiVA flag at the Woolwich Job Centre Apprenticeship Day. Most likely we’ll be doing a live Q&A on twitter – so if there’s a topic you’re interested in discussing let me know.
I’ve got a fair bit of training lined up to. Arit encouraged me to attend two marketing courses one of which focuses purely on Social Media Marketing. I'm really looking forward to it; it will give me the opportunity to build on the skills I have been developing over the past months. I’m also back at College during the week of 18th Feb. Yay! I really enjoy the learning aspect of my apprenticeship. There's always some fresh and exciting element being added, making it a lot more interactive and engaging. Last time we visited IPC media who publish magazines such as Marie Claire and Look (my favourite). The Marketing Director from Revolver Entertainment also came to see us and delivered a masterclass on the Marketing Campaign for Plan B’s directorial debut 'Ill Manner's'. 
Finally, I’m DESPERATELY trying to get Arit to let me attend London Fashion Week. I can go in so far as I can get an interview with a designer for our DiVA Inspire brand. Any advice or contacts – please send my way!
4 months into my apprenticeship, I love it, I’m learning something new everyday and building vital skills that will help me prosper in the future.
Can't really complain can I?
FaceBook - Selene Shaw (Selene Diva)
For the latest apprenticeships visit our website
