Award-winning Chief Creative Officer, keynote speaker, workshop facilitator & trainer
When NBC Universal approached us to give depth to their channel, we dug deep into the content to understand that their difference was in the richness of the characters in their shows. Like Elliot in their key drama Mr Robot, they’re likeable, succeeding against the odds but complex. But we didn’t want to tell the stories of the characters on screen or simply advertise content, like their competitors. We wanted to give them more depth, and to stand out. To create content that their audience looks forward to and can get involved in, rather than advertising they skip over.
So we scoured the UK for stories of real life ‘characters’ for a four-part mini documentary series ‘100% Characters Uncovered’. Diverse individuals whose bravery and success belies the marginalisation they’ve encountered. We fought to represent people who’s stories otherwise wouldn’t be told, from ex-offenders running social enterprises to older women who are rarely represented on screen.
But these stories were more than films, with innovative social support bringing the characters to life. The Facebook Live audience interview of Jamie, our young disabled footballer, was the most popular piece of content from Universal Channel in that period. He answered questions from all over the UK, all whilst playing keepy-uppy at his Manchester City training ground. We’re proud that Dr Sue Black, one of our stories, is now the WEP candidate for Mayor of London and we’re proud to have told the stories of such incredible people around the country.
We spent time with Dr Sue Black, exploring her incredible journey from single mum to OBE.
Jamie Tregaskiss, one of the best amputee footballers in the UK, who plays for Manchester City and England.
Lorraine Galvin, he only women in the RNLI at the helm of a rescue vessel.
Amir Miah, who went from almost being jailed for bike theft, to training young offenders and transforming their lives.