TELL US ABOUT YOUR DAILY HABITS THAT KEEP YOU INSPIRED AND MOTIVATED.
I’m an early riser, which gives me precious time before the rest of my family wakes up. This quiet moment allows me to organise my day and think strategically about the future, offering a sense of control and clarity. My natural hunger for learning, especially about films and the industry, is a constant source of motivation. I feel privileged to attend exhibitor screenings organised by distributors. These moments, when I watch films and connect with colleagues, offer a refreshing break from routine—almost like travelling without leaving the city. They often provide fresh perspectives on the challenges I’m facing. Lastly, connecting with my colleagues at work is something I deeply value. The camaraderie, and even the light-hearted banter, are priceless. We spend so much time together, witnessing each other's personal and professional lives unfold. I draw energy from the team around me, and that shared experience adds depth to the work we do.
LOOKING BACK AT YOUR CAREER JOURNEY, WHAT ARE YOU THE PROUDEST OF?
I’m particularly proud of shaping the programming at Regent Street Cinema, where I’ve brought in unique perspectives and curated films that resonate with our audience. Working closely with scholars at the university and building partnerships between distributors and academia has taken me in new and rewarding directions. Additionally, being involved as a lecturer, mentor, and industry practitioner in the MA Business of Film course has been incredibly enriching. Engaging with students and hearing their fresh perspectives often reinvigorates my own thinking.
WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU ENCOUNTERED THROUGHOUT YOUR LEADERSHIP JOURNEY?
One of the ongoing challenges has been the development of my own personal competencies. It’s an ever-evolving process of striving to be the most effective leader I can be and making a meaningful contribution to the organisation. Self-development has been a critical aspect of this journey. That passion for growth is what led me to programmes like the UNIC Women’s Cinema Leadership Programme, which marked an important milestone in my personal and professional development.
HAVING A DEMANDING ROLE, HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR WORK AND PERSONAL LIFE?
Flexibility is key. I prioritise tasks throughout the day and focus fully on whatever I’m doing at that moment, whether it’s work or family time. It helps me get the most out of each experience. Outside of work, I make it a point to maintain a strong social circle and explore new activities to break the routine. Travelling, in particular, is something that rejuvenates me. It gives me a fresh perspective and helps me recharge, which is why I always prioritise travel during holidays.
FROM YOUR CAREER OF OVER 12 YEARS IN THE CINEMA INDUSTRY, WHAT DO YOU THINK IS HOLDING WOMEN BACK? WHY DO THEY STILL REMAIN UNDERREPRESENTED IN SENIOR POSITIONS IN THE CINEMA INDUSTRY?
Having a 3-year-old son, I often read children’s books with him, and I’m astounded by how deeply ingrained gender stereotypes still are. Boys are depicted as problem-solvers and leaders, while girls often play passive roles, waiting to be rescued. These early messages shape our perceptions of gender and have a profound impact on how women see themselves—and how society views them. This affects every aspect of our lives, including professional opportunities in industries like cinema. Changing these deep-rooted perceptions is critical for achieving gender equality at senior levels.
AS A FORMER UNIC WCLP MENTEE, WHY DO YOU THINK MENTORING IS IMPORTANT? DID YOU HAVE OTHER MENTORS ALONG THE WAY?
Mentoring is essential because it provides both guidance and a sense of belonging, especially for women in underrepresented fields. My experience with the UNIC Women’s Cinema Leadership Programme was invaluable—it made me feel supported and seen, surrounded by women in influential roles. It’s true that you believe in what you can see, and being in that environment was incredibly empowering. Throughout my career, I’ve also been fortunate to have several mentors who shared their wisdom, encouraged me to take risks, and provided support. Mentorship not only helps the mentee but also enriches the mentor’s perspective.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF?
First and foremost—worry less. I’d tell my younger self to embrace challenges and not be afraid of mistakes. Learning is an essential part of development, and mistakes are simply part of that journey. If you’ve done your best, then let go of unnecessary worry. Every step, even the missteps, contributes to growth. I’d also remind myself that resilience and flexibility are key. Finally, I’d encourage myself to keep advocating for diversity and inclusion, as it’s a cause worth fighting for.