NM Productions Partners with Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate to Inspire Creative Careers

Students at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) were given an unparalleled opportunity to explore careers in the creative industry through a series of immersive workshops, thanks to a partnership with global production company NM Productions. The initiative was led by Anissa Payne, executive producer and founder of NM Productions.

NM Productions brought an impressive line up of industry experts to work with students, offering insights across a range of creative fields. From award-winning directors to storyboard artists, photographers, and special effects designers, students engaged with leading professionals who shared their real-world experiences and provided hands-on training.

The workshops featured industry names such as Charles Whiteway, production designer; Michael O’Connor, director of photography; Michael J Ferns, director; Samantha Helen, SFX Body Artist; and Gani Malaba, founder of Permian World.SVP of Creative AI at WPP, Perry Nightingale, and Kat Sullivan, VP of interactive design, also contributed, with Nightingale offering students a glimpse into how artificial intelligence is revolutionising the creative industries. The highlight for many was a live demonstration of Boston Dynamics’ robotic 'dog' in the school’s King’s Theatre, wowing both students and parents alike.

“We are really grateful to NM Productions for delivering such a diverse and exciting set of workshops to our students,” said Kevin Oldershaw, academic director at Queen Ethelburga’s. “Opportunities like this help ensure that our students are well-prepared for the future, exposing them to the skills and careers employers are seeking.”

Anissa Payne emphasised the importance of giving back to the community, “As we enter our sixth year of business, it feels fantastic to support the next generation of creatives. This workshop is one of several charitable initiatives we’ve rolled out this year, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of our clients, vendors, and crew who generously volunteered their time to make this happen.”

Proceeds from merchandise sales during the event went toward the Creative Mentor Network, a charity that helps young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds access careers in creative industries. NM Productions is also actively supporting programmes like 10,000 Interns, which focus on fostering diversity in the creative world.

To further support these causes, donations can be made here.