Guiding Lights

Northwest Film Talent Highlighted as Future Stars

Three aspiring filmmakers from the Northwest are receiving mentoring from some of the UK's finest film professionals, as part of a new scheme launched by Skillset and Brighton-based training provider, Lighthouse Arts and Training.

'Guiding Lights' pairs established names with twenty-six of the hottest new talents in the UK for twelve months of mentoring, advice and support. The initiative is part of 'A Bigger Future', the UK film skills strategy, a joint project between Skillset and the UK Film Council.

Competition for this mentoring scheme was high and over 350 applications were received.

Lisa Hill, who currently heads up the PR and Marketing department at North West Vision (the film and TV agency for the Northwest), is receiving mentoring from the Vice President of Publicity for Universal Pictures, Kate Wyhowska. BAFTA short film producer Mike Knowles, is receiving mentoring from Andrew Eaton, Producer of recent feature film 'A cock and Bull Story' and writer Faisal Qureshi has been paired with Mark Peploe whose writing credits include 'The Last Emperor'.

Lisa Hill, of North West Vision said:

"I feel so privileged to have been chosen as one of the final twenty six and to receive mentoring from one of the UK's most highly regarded film publicists. This is an amazing opportunity and I hope I can further my PR skills in relation to film and also my career through the doors this scheme will open for me.".

Mike Knowles said:

'Producing can be a lonely job and bridging the gap between shorts and features is a steep learning curve. Having someone you admire and respect like Andrew Eaton for advice and support (and occasional reassurance) is an amazing opportunity that will (and is
already) reaping dividends. It's good to know some 'up there' has had similar problems as you and can advise as to the solutions.'

James Purnell MP, Minister for Film, said:

"Mentoring is an excellent way to tap into the invaluable knowledge and skills of people with a vast working experience. And it's a rewarding way of sharing that experience and developing the people working alongside you. The film industry has embraced this idea through the Guiding Lights scheme and should be congratulated - as should Skillset and Lighthouse for creating and delivering this groundbreaking and innovative project."

Lisa Hill and Kate Wyhowska