Emma Pritchard
He’s always had a knack for performing, and is an avid fan of film and TV, so when Grafton’s A’mi Gray learned he had been selected to take part in a Regional Crew Development program with Screenworks and Netflix earlier this year, he couldn’t wipe the smile from his face.
Following a 2022 conversation he had with fellow Clarence Valley resident Eden Cansdell, who participated in the same program last year, Mr Gray said he felt inspired to pursue his passions for emotive storytelling and drama and was one of the first to apply for the traineeship once applications opened in October.
“After previously working in social media marketing, I discovered I wasn’t enjoying all of the aspects of my job, and I didn’t like the business or sales components,” he explained.
“I spoke to Eden after I saw her doing some pretty amazing things through the development program, and it all felt like it was too good to be true.
“Hearing of this program, it felt like the missing piece of a puzzle had been found.
“I knew straight away I wanted to give it my best shot, so I crossed my fingers and applied, and I was over the moon when I learned I had been successful.”
After commencing his new role on February 6, the 23-year-old said his days are filled with a variety of work, ranging from placements on local TV sets to assisting crew members and working with production teams.
As part of the development program, Mr Gray is also completing a 12-month course, a Certificate III in Screen and Media through TAFE, and is eager to expand his knowledge of the film industry and embrace every opportunity which comes his way.
His plans for the future include working for a local production hub based in Australia in either Melbourne, Sydney, or on the Gold Coast.
He would also like to pursue a career working in the film industry overseas, either in England or Canada.
“I grew up watching a lot of old British crimes shows with my mum,” he said.
“So I’ve always been interested in working in England one day.
“For now, I’m just enjoying the work I’m doing and the new skillsets I’m learning, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where they can take me.”