Film Academy Inspires North Belfast Student Carrie on Path to Dream Career

Leaving school with three A Levels, North Belfast resident Carrie Gray had plenty of potential, but like many young people in our community, she was unsure which career path to pursue. After trying courses in beauty and marketing, neither felt like the right fit, leading the 25-year-old to work in a local bar while waiting for an opportunity that truly clicked.

That turning point arrived earlier this year when a friend's mother noticed a social media post for the Digital Film Production Academy. Delivered by Belfast Met in partnership with Northern Ireland film charity Cinemagic, the eight-week initiative is part of the Bank of America-sponsored Belfast Digital Skills and Employability Programme. Despite having no previous filmmaking background, Carrie immediately applied.

Throwing herself into the fast-paced curriculum, Carrie learned the fundamentals of scriptwriting, camera work, editing, and production in a professional environment. She was one of 16 learners to complete the course, earning an OCN NI Level 3 qualification. Alongside practical in-college training and visits to working media settings, Carrie wrote and directed her own short film, which received a standing ovation at her graduation showcase.

Building on her newfound passion, Carrie has now progressed to a two-year Open University Degree in Film Production through Belfast Met. The course includes vital industry work experience, positioning her well to break into Northern Ireland's thriving film and television sector.

Carrie's family are delighted by her progress, with Carrie sharing that her mother believes the academy completely transformed her life. Diana Atchison, Belfast Met's Centre for Digital Innovation and Technology Project Manager, praised Carrie as an outstanding asset to the programme, wishing her every success as she takes her first major steps into the creative industry.