Be You Festival 2023: top takeaways for talent

Be You Festival, from Soho Media Club, brought together a host of industry figures, leaders and talent who engaged in some fantastic critical conversations around diversity in the TV industry, as well as sharing their valuable insights with the audience - covering everything from career highlights and lessons, to advice for upcoming talent, and all the way to AI!

While diversity and inclusion were at the forefront of the conversation, it also highlighted the challenges that many professionals in the industry are facing as commissions slow down. With that in mind, we’ve compiled our top takeaways from Be You, for industry talent. Shared by some highly successful professionals, these insights are all about getting the most out of yourself and your work!

Opportunities are everywhere

Your next big break might not come in the form of a successful application. Put yourself out there; show an interest in others and say 'yes' to as much as you can manage!

“You have to treat every opportunity as a lesson - a leg-up. Even if it’s making coffee. Stay curious, ask around, talk to people.” - Sir Lenny Henry

Build your resilience

It's not about how many times you fail, or get it wrong. It's about how many times you get back up and continue to give it everything you have! There are lessons in every setback…

“You’ll get knocked down so many times; if you can power through that and still stand shining, you’ll always be in work.” - Jasmine Dotiwala

Master one craft at a time

In today's digital world there's a lot of pressure to have a 'portfolio career'. But trying to perfect several unrelated skills may actually end up hindering you. Focus on the ones that link together in some way and can work towards a sustainable career.

“You can be multidisciplinary and have a ‘portfolio career’, but there needs to be a common thread between all of your work.” - Mobeen Azhar

Trust your own instincts

Learning from others, listening to feedback and considering criticism can help mould you into a better professional, but sometimes you need to trust your own instincts and do what you believe is best.

“Not everyone's going to support you. If your gut is telling you something, it's probably true.” - Fauzia Boakye

Create your own 'tribe'

The TV industry is built on a web of connections, and it might feel difficult to get into the 'right' circles. Establish your own network of individuals who share your values, have your best interest at heat and who you can create content with.

“If you can cluster with a group of like-minded people, and begin to create your own content, that’s the way forward.” - Sir Lenny Henry

Be passionate

The key to success? Passion. That passion needs to flow through everything you do - from finding work, to networking, to creating great TV. Be respectful but persistent in your endeavours to further your career.

"You need to be tenacious - use LinkedIn, connect with people, message them; show your enthusiasm and passion." - Leah Henry