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aspiring creatives.
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RECENT EPISODES
Ep #23: Actor Amir Wilson on Juggling School with Acting, Coping with Rejection, and Passion for Filmmaking
Amir Wilson, an actor hailing from Shrewsbury, has rapidly risen as a young talent in the acting world. His journey began at age 10 when he responded to an open audition for the Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre. Out of 3000 hopefuls, Amir made it to the final four, and thanks to some quick thinking from his mum, he landed the role. For the next two years, he balanced primary school and performing in the Lion King, and hasn’t looked back since.Amir's stage performance in The Secret Diary Of Adrian Mole led him to meet his agent, opening doors to film and TV roles. He has since starred as Will Parry in the HBO and BBC One series His Dark Materials, Tiuri in the Netflix series The Letter for the King, and Dickon in the 2020 film adaptation of The Secret Garden.On the podcast, Amir shares his experiences, challenges and triumphs. From media training and staying in LA hotels to doing GCSE mock exams in a shipping container in Cardiff and filming alongside Colin Firth and Julie Walters at Pinewood Studios, his journey is full of fascinating anecdotes.A dedicated student of film, Amir left school at 16 to attend LSA film school, which ignited a lifelong passion for the filmmaking process. He emphasises the importance of coping mechanisms for balancing work and personal life and maintaining as normal a school life as possible while pursuing acting.Amir’s advice to aspiring actors is to stick to short-term goals to improve day by day. For those in creative fields, he suggests absorbing everything around you—watch things you wouldn’t normally watch and talk to people you wouldn’t normally talk to, as there’s much to learn from new experiences and others.Currently, His Dark Materials is available on BBC iPlayer, offering audiences a chance to see Amir's breakout performances. Listen in to hear more about Amir Wilson’s journey so far and his insights into the acting world.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @amirwilson_
Ep #22: HEN$HAW on social media, music industry challenges, and earning a living
Introducing HEN$HAW, the embodiment of Camden's underground spirit, blending rap, garage, dance, grime, and emo-drill into a signature sound. Raised amidst the London borough’s grit and diversity, HEN$HAW's musical journey kicked off with his grandad's gift of a microphone and recording software at a young age in 2012.With his partner-in-crime, producer Chase, HEN$HAW lives by the motto "when, not if," a positive belief that good things will happen with momentum.Fuelled by the beats Chase creates, for now he has chosen independence over major labels, leveraging platforms like TikTok to turn unusual moments, like ex-PM Lizz Truss's resignation, into viral hits, as seen with his track "CHALK AND CHEESE."While navigating the trials of streaming income, HEN$HAW thrives on live shows, channeling his raw emotions into tracks like "HOLE" from his EP 'Sittin’ in the Dark’, and "Lowkey", which has had over 3 million Spotify streams. Hiis latest release "NO JK", a collaboration with The Skinner Brothers, is out now.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @henshawgram
Ep #21: Marz Fay on making music, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, and breaking into the media industry
Hailing from South London, Marz Fay is poised to make a significant mark on the music scene as an outspoken LGBT artist delving into themes of love, pain & youth. With over 50k+ streams on her debut EP, Marz is quickly building a passionate following.
Ep #20: Cap1talA on navigating racism, cultivating gratitude, and independent success in hip-hop
Cap1talA is a UK rap and hip-hop artist whose music is as a powerful reflection of his upbringing and experiences.
Ep #19: Photographer Sophia Leon on telling authentic stories, self-care, and the art of pitching to clients
Our guest this week is photographer, Sophia Leon. Hailing from Manchester, Sophia's passion for creativity led her to London in pursuit of the most dynamic environment for her artistic ambitions.
Ep #18: Simon Wheatley on growing organically as a photographer, and documenting grime in the 00s
Ep #17: Rashun Kerr on Event & Artist Management and Mental Health
Introducing Rashun Kur, DJ, Events and Tour Manager, and longtime friend of Billy and the show.
Ep #16: L-DOPA (with Gus and Austin) on collaborative projects and a DIY ethos
Gus Burgess and Austin 'Dope' are the architects behind the "L-Dopa" brand and magazine. With the release of their inaugural edition, "The Fly Issue" in 2023, they've carved out a space to amplify the voices of talented creatives in their community.Beyond the allure of cool ideas and visionary concepts, Gus and Austin stress the importance of hard work to bring projects to life; recognizing that sometimes just a small per centage of the creative process lies in that initial spark.On the pod, Gus and Austin candidly share their journey, emphasizing the often-overlooked skills and administrative tasks that it’s vital to learn quickly when launching a new project.Gus is an artisan in his own right: creative direction, photography, editing, curation and branding. His philosophy encapsulates the essence of self-empowerment: "If you want something, you can create it yourself." The brand, an evolving fusion of fashion, style, and a DIY aesthetic, embodies their dynamic creative spirit.As we eagerly anticipate the next edition of "L-Dopa," the duo contemplates diverse mediums for their storytelling. Whether through another print magazine or innovative forms like unique objects or clothing, Gus and Austin embrace the endless possibilities of creative expression.To aspiring creatives, Gus and Austin offer straightforward advice: stop overthinking and start creating. Stay true to yourself, embrace your authenticity, and believe in the power of your unique voice.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @l_dopamagazine@gusburgess@dopesolitary
Ep #15: Cam Edwards of Sigma - D'n'B DJ & Producer
Cam Edwards is a producer and DJ, known to many as one half of Sigma. With roots in the underground, he has also achieved the rare feat of a string of huge Drum ’n’ Bass hits.
Ep #14: Todd Duncan - London-based Street Photographer
Meet photographer Todd Duncan. Picture this: three years ago, Tod stumbled upon a camera in a charity shop, and there occurred a spark; a moment of inspiration. Here is a photographer whose journey behind the lens began unexpectedly but has since become a storm of activity and success.
Ep #13: Preye Crooks - A&R Head + Festival Founder
Preye Crooks is an ascendant presence in the music and festival industry, known for his entrepreneurial strength and A&R expertise. As the founder of Strawberries & Creem and The Cambridge Club Festivals, he has led these events from humble beginnings of 500 people to becoming full weekend camping festivals with crowds of over 20,000. Notably, both festivals were recently part-acquired by Sony Music Entertainment, marking Sony's first-owned festivals in Europe.Under Preye's leadership, these festivals have hosted a diverse lineup of music icons and contemporary artists, including Burna Boy, Skepta, Koffee, J Hus, AJ Tracey, Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, and The Jacksons.In addition to his festival success, Preye is also the co-head of A&R at Robots & Humans Records/Sony Music UK. With a track record spanning six years at Columbia Records, he has showcased his exceptional A&R talent by signing notable artists such as Not3s, B Young, DigDat, SwitchOTR, Kenny Allstar, and more. His influence and dedication to the music industry continue to shape the careers of emerging talent.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @preyecrooks
Ep #12: Amanda Akokhia - Fashion & Beauty Photographer
Amanda Akokhia's move from a corporate grounding into professional photography shows us just how rewarding following your true passion can be. After earning her Law degree and joining a firm, Amanda realized her calling lay behind the lens.
Ep #11: Megan Morass - PR Agency CEO and Podcast Host
Megan is a co-founder and CEO of Full Fat - one of the UKs leading creative communications agencies and current UK champion of Diversity & Inclusion. Passionate about business and mental health Megan and how marketing can have a powerful impact on human behaviour. Megan also hosts “2019s best new podcast” The Slice, has won Management Today 35 under 35 and is on the judging panel for this years PR Week 30 under 30 award.
Ep #10: Rubi PoseAndRepeat - Fashion And Beauty Creator
Rubi is an emerging fashion sensation to be reckoned with. Her street style looks and trendsetting 'How To Style' videos show that it's possible to be stylish and confident, no matter your size or budget. With her vibrant and colorful aesthetic, Rubi's talent for styling is quickly gaining recognition in the fashion industry. Rubi's influence extends far beyond her visually stunning fashion choices. She has created a unique lifestyle brand, ‘Pose and Repeat’, where she shares insights into her life, personal style, and how she curates her wardrobe. This platform allows Rubi to connect with her engaged following of predominantly 18 to 24-year-olds across the US, UK, and Australia. As she moves away from a fashion-centric approach, Rubi's brand encompasses her entire lifestyle, showcasing not only her fashion sense but also her passions, interests, and experiences.In addition to her lifestyle brand, Rubi has expanded her reach into the realm of beauty with ‘Pose and Repeat Beauty’. This new venture reflects her dedication and passion for makeup and beauty. With this specialized platform, Rubi focuses on creating looks that accentuate her unique skin tones, catering to her everyday life, festivals, and events. Her expertise in working with different skin tones adds a personalized touch to her beauty content, empowering individuals to embrace their natural beauty.Rubi is a true inspiration to young creatives everywhere. She is a testament to the power of following your dreams and never giving up on what you love. If you're looking for a source of inspiration and motivation, be sure to follow Rubi on @poseandrepeat and @poseandrepeatbeauty. Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @poseandrepeat
Ep #9: Charlie Brogan - Writer and Model
Charlie Brogan is a Freelance Writer, Poet, and Editor & co-founder of "The Rally" magazine. With a passion for positive and impactful content, she has created an online community through her poetry, workshops, and magazine. Charlie's belief in the power of storytelling led her to edit ‘The Rally’, filling a gap in women's media with joyful and real content.
Ep #8: Kilu - Self-taught emerging musician
Meet Kilu, 22-year-old musician from Hackney, an emerging talent with a raw and authentic sound. With his self-taught talent in singing, guitar, piano, and production, Kilu has quickly built up a devoted following.
Ep #7: Areej - Soulful R&B Singer-Songwriter
Introducing Areej, a remarkable Moroccan-Sudanese singer-songwriter hailing from West London, whose artistic journey has been shaped by her heritage. Areej carries depth and soulfulness in her voice; a voice cut from silk that shimmers and shakes like Tangiers reflected on the water.
Ep #6: Jason Anthony Cudapas - Fashion and Music Industry Tattoo Artist
Here’s tattoo artist Jason Anthony Cudapas, a master of skin artistry who wields his inked weaponry with precision and finesse. The London-born, Philippino-British linework specialist, also known as NYE INKS, has an impressive roster of celebrity clients, including Skepta, IAMDDB, Mahalia, and Octavian. Jason has become a go-to artist for those seeking fresh and distinctive style.
Ep #5: Emma Louise-Boynton - Broadcaster & 'Sex Talks' Host
Meet Emma Boynton, a dynamic presenter, writer, and the creative force behind the award-winning live event series, Sex Talks. With a background as a producer for the BBC and Sky News, as well as being the sex columnist for ES Magazine and relationships columnist for Semaine, Emma brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
Ep #4: Kojo - All Round Creative
Meet Kojo Hammond, dancer, stylist, and the brilliant mind behind 82K Degrees - the fiery London-based streetwear brand that has emerged from the underground with an undeniable heat. As a multidisciplinary creative, Kojo spearheads the relentless pursuit of excellence at 82K Degrees, infusing each garment with meticulous attention to detail and a genderless approach that challenges conventions.
Ep #3: Feux - Independent Artist
Rising star, Dubious Feux explains his personal journey as an artists and reveals his creative process.
Ep #2: Jess Gardiner - CEO and Founder of The Assistant Room
Jess Gardiner, the Founder and CEO of The Assistant room, joins us today to discuss the ins and outs of what it means to be a CEO and how to creatively start a business.
Ep #1: Pia Cruz - Model
Join us for our first episode of The Promising Creative! Today we are chatting with Pia Cruz, a vastly successful model who has worked with the likes of Yves Saint Laurent, Nike and Diesel. Pia opens up about the day to day struggles associated with the industry, as well as how she started her career whilst facing major adversity.
FEATURED EPISODES
Ep #23: Actor Amir Wilson on Juggling School with Acting, Coping with Rejection, and Passion for Filmmaking
Amir Wilson, an actor hailing from Shrewsbury, has rapidly risen as a young talent in the acting world. His journey began at age 10 when he responded to an open audition for the Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre. Out of 3000 hopefuls, Amir made it to the final four, and thanks to some quick thinking from his mum, he landed the role. For the next two years, he balanced primary school and performing in the Lion King, and hasn’t looked back since.Amir's stage performance in The Secret Diary Of Adrian Mole led him to meet his agent, opening doors to film and TV roles. He has since starred as Will Parry in the HBO and BBC One series His Dark Materials, Tiuri in the Netflix series The Letter for the King, and Dickon in the 2020 film adaptation of The Secret Garden.On the podcast, Amir shares his experiences, challenges and triumphs. From media training and staying in LA hotels to doing GCSE mock exams in a shipping container in Cardiff and filming alongside Colin Firth and Julie Walters at Pinewood Studios, his journey is full of fascinating anecdotes.A dedicated student of film, Amir left school at 16 to attend LSA film school, which ignited a lifelong passion for the filmmaking process. He emphasises the importance of coping mechanisms for balancing work and personal life and maintaining as normal a school life as possible while pursuing acting.Amir’s advice to aspiring actors is to stick to short-term goals to improve day by day. For those in creative fields, he suggests absorbing everything around you—watch things you wouldn’t normally watch and talk to people you wouldn’t normally talk to, as there’s much to learn from new experiences and others.Currently, His Dark Materials is available on BBC iPlayer, offering audiences a chance to see Amir's breakout performances. Listen in to hear more about Amir Wilson’s journey so far and his insights into the acting world.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @amirwilson_
Ep #23: Actor Amir Wilson on Juggling School with Acting, Coping with Rejection, and Passion for Filmmaking
Amir Wilson, an actor hailing from Shrewsbury, has rapidly risen as a young talent in the acting world. His journey began at age 10 when he responded to an open audition for the Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre. Out of 3000 hopefuls, Amir made it to the final four, and thanks to some quick thinking from his mum, he landed the role. For the next two years, he balanced primary school and performing in the Lion King, and hasn’t looked back since.Amir's stage performance in The Secret Diary Of Adrian Mole led him to meet his agent, opening doors to film and TV roles. He has since starred as Will Parry in the HBO and BBC One series His Dark Materials, Tiuri in the Netflix series The Letter for the King, and Dickon in the 2020 film adaptation of The Secret Garden.On the podcast, Amir shares his experiences, challenges and triumphs. From media training and staying in LA hotels to doing GCSE mock exams in a shipping container in Cardiff and filming alongside Colin Firth and Julie Walters at Pinewood Studios, his journey is full of fascinating anecdotes.A dedicated student of film, Amir left school at 16 to attend LSA film school, which ignited a lifelong passion for the filmmaking process. He emphasises the importance of coping mechanisms for balancing work and personal life and maintaining as normal a school life as possible while pursuing acting.Amir’s advice to aspiring actors is to stick to short-term goals to improve day by day. For those in creative fields, he suggests absorbing everything around you—watch things you wouldn’t normally watch and talk to people you wouldn’t normally talk to, as there’s much to learn from new experiences and others.Currently, His Dark Materials is available on BBC iPlayer, offering audiences a chance to see Amir's breakout performances. Listen in to hear more about Amir Wilson’s journey so far and his insights into the acting world.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @amirwilson_
Ep #22: HEN$HAW on social media, music industry challenges, and earning a living
Introducing HEN$HAW, the embodiment of Camden's underground spirit, blending rap, garage, dance, grime, and emo-drill into a signature sound. Raised amidst the London borough’s grit and diversity, HEN$HAW's musical journey kicked off with his grandad's gift of a microphone and recording software at a young age in 2012.With his partner-in-crime, producer Chase, HEN$HAW lives by the motto "when, not if," a positive belief that good things will happen with momentum.Fuelled by the beats Chase creates, for now he has chosen independence over major labels, leveraging platforms like TikTok to turn unusual moments, like ex-PM Lizz Truss's resignation, into viral hits, as seen with his track "CHALK AND CHEESE."While navigating the trials of streaming income, HEN$HAW thrives on live shows, channeling his raw emotions into tracks like "HOLE" from his EP 'Sittin’ in the Dark’, and "Lowkey", which has had over 3 million Spotify streams. Hiis latest release "NO JK", a collaboration with The Skinner Brothers, is out now.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @henshawgram
Ep #21: Marz Fay on making music, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, and breaking into the media industry
Hailing from South London, Marz Fay is poised to make a significant mark on the music scene as an outspoken LGBT artist delving into themes of love, pain & youth. With over 50k+ streams on her debut EP, Marz is quickly building a passionate following.
Ep #19: Photographer Sophia Leon on telling authentic stories, self-care, and the art of pitching to clients
Our guest this week is photographer, Sophia Leon. Hailing from Manchester, Sophia's passion for creativity led her to London in pursuit of the most dynamic environment for her artistic ambitions.
Ep #16: L-DOPA (with Gus and Austin) on collaborative projects and a DIY ethos
Gus Burgess and Austin 'Dope' are the architects behind the "L-Dopa" brand and magazine. With the release of their inaugural edition, "The Fly Issue" in 2023, they've carved out a space to amplify the voices of talented creatives in their community.Beyond the allure of cool ideas and visionary concepts, Gus and Austin stress the importance of hard work to bring projects to life; recognizing that sometimes just a small per centage of the creative process lies in that initial spark.On the pod, Gus and Austin candidly share their journey, emphasizing the often-overlooked skills and administrative tasks that it’s vital to learn quickly when launching a new project.Gus is an artisan in his own right: creative direction, photography, editing, curation and branding. His philosophy encapsulates the essence of self-empowerment: "If you want something, you can create it yourself." The brand, an evolving fusion of fashion, style, and a DIY aesthetic, embodies their dynamic creative spirit.As we eagerly anticipate the next edition of "L-Dopa," the duo contemplates diverse mediums for their storytelling. Whether through another print magazine or innovative forms like unique objects or clothing, Gus and Austin embrace the endless possibilities of creative expression.To aspiring creatives, Gus and Austin offer straightforward advice: stop overthinking and start creating. Stay true to yourself, embrace your authenticity, and believe in the power of your unique voice.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @l_dopamagazine@gusburgess@dopesolitary
Ep #14: Todd Duncan - London-based Street Photographer
Meet photographer Todd Duncan. Picture this: three years ago, Tod stumbled upon a camera in a charity shop, and there occurred a spark; a moment of inspiration. Here is a photographer whose journey behind the lens began unexpectedly but has since become a storm of activity and success.
Ep #13: Preye Crooks - A&R Head + Festival Founder
Preye Crooks is an ascendant presence in the music and festival industry, known for his entrepreneurial strength and A&R expertise. As the founder of Strawberries & Creem and The Cambridge Club Festivals, he has led these events from humble beginnings of 500 people to becoming full weekend camping festivals with crowds of over 20,000. Notably, both festivals were recently part-acquired by Sony Music Entertainment, marking Sony's first-owned festivals in Europe.Under Preye's leadership, these festivals have hosted a diverse lineup of music icons and contemporary artists, including Burna Boy, Skepta, Koffee, J Hus, AJ Tracey, Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, and The Jacksons.In addition to his festival success, Preye is also the co-head of A&R at Robots & Humans Records/Sony Music UK. With a track record spanning six years at Columbia Records, he has showcased his exceptional A&R talent by signing notable artists such as Not3s, B Young, DigDat, SwitchOTR, Kenny Allstar, and more. His influence and dedication to the music industry continue to shape the careers of emerging talent.Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @preyecrooks
Ep #11: Megan Morass - PR Agency CEO and Podcast Host
Megan is a co-founder and CEO of Full Fat - one of the UKs leading creative communications agencies and current UK champion of Diversity & Inclusion. Passionate about business and mental health Megan and how marketing can have a powerful impact on human behaviour. Megan also hosts “2019s best new podcast” The Slice, has won Management Today 35 under 35 and is on the judging panel for this years PR Week 30 under 30 award.
Ep #10: Rubi PoseAndRepeat - Fashion And Beauty Creator
Rubi is an emerging fashion sensation to be reckoned with. Her street style looks and trendsetting 'How To Style' videos show that it's possible to be stylish and confident, no matter your size or budget. With her vibrant and colorful aesthetic, Rubi's talent for styling is quickly gaining recognition in the fashion industry. Rubi's influence extends far beyond her visually stunning fashion choices. She has created a unique lifestyle brand, ‘Pose and Repeat’, where she shares insights into her life, personal style, and how she curates her wardrobe. This platform allows Rubi to connect with her engaged following of predominantly 18 to 24-year-olds across the US, UK, and Australia. As she moves away from a fashion-centric approach, Rubi's brand encompasses her entire lifestyle, showcasing not only her fashion sense but also her passions, interests, and experiences.In addition to her lifestyle brand, Rubi has expanded her reach into the realm of beauty with ‘Pose and Repeat Beauty’. This new venture reflects her dedication and passion for makeup and beauty. With this specialized platform, Rubi focuses on creating looks that accentuate her unique skin tones, catering to her everyday life, festivals, and events. Her expertise in working with different skin tones adds a personalized touch to her beauty content, empowering individuals to embrace their natural beauty.Rubi is a true inspiration to young creatives everywhere. She is a testament to the power of following your dreams and never giving up on what you love. If you're looking for a source of inspiration and motivation, be sure to follow Rubi on @poseandrepeat and @poseandrepeatbeauty. Instagram: @thepromisingcreativeTikTok: @thepromisingcreativeTwitter: @PrmisngCreativeGuest: @poseandrepeat
Ep #9: Charlie Brogan - Writer and Model
Charlie Brogan is a Freelance Writer, Poet, and Editor & co-founder of "The Rally" magazine. With a passion for positive and impactful content, she has created an online community through her poetry, workshops, and magazine. Charlie's belief in the power of storytelling led her to edit ‘The Rally’, filling a gap in women's media with joyful and real content.
Ep #7: Areej - Soulful R&B Singer-Songwriter
Introducing Areej, a remarkable Moroccan-Sudanese singer-songwriter hailing from West London, whose artistic journey has been shaped by her heritage. Areej carries depth and soulfulness in her voice; a voice cut from silk that shimmers and shakes like Tangiers reflected on the water.
Ep #6: Jason Anthony Cudapas - Fashion and Music Industry Tattoo Artist
Here’s tattoo artist Jason Anthony Cudapas, a master of skin artistry who wields his inked weaponry with precision and finesse. The London-born, Philippino-British linework specialist, also known as NYE INKS, has an impressive roster of celebrity clients, including Skepta, IAMDDB, Mahalia, and Octavian. Jason has become a go-to artist for those seeking fresh and distinctive style.
Ep #5: Emma Louise-Boynton - Broadcaster & 'Sex Talks' Host
Meet Emma Boynton, a dynamic presenter, writer, and the creative force behind the award-winning live event series, Sex Talks. With a background as a producer for the BBC and Sky News, as well as being the sex columnist for ES Magazine and relationships columnist for Semaine, Emma brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
Ep #4: Kojo - All Round Creative
Meet Kojo Hammond, dancer, stylist, and the brilliant mind behind 82K Degrees - the fiery London-based streetwear brand that has emerged from the underground with an undeniable heat. As a multidisciplinary creative, Kojo spearheads the relentless pursuit of excellence at 82K Degrees, infusing each garment with meticulous attention to detail and a genderless approach that challenges conventions.
Ep #1: Pia Cruz - Model
Join us for our first episode of The Promising Creative! Today we are chatting with Pia Cruz, a vastly successful model who has worked with the likes of Yves Saint Laurent, Nike and Diesel. Pia opens up about the day to day struggles associated with the industry, as well as how she started her career whilst facing major adversity.
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