Film and TV Society: Welfare Officer

I am studying Spanish with Film Studies, so I am hugely invested in film as it is my main passion and my dream to work within the film industry one day. As such, I have really enjoyed being a part of filmsoc this past year in every way I have been able to get involved - I have applied to work on every film I have been able to and I have met some amazing people through doing this, and I would love the opportunity to get more involved with the society and everyone within it. I am really committed to the society and would be a reliable and enthusiastic representative for its members, and I am very dedicated to the support of welfare within the society; as someone who has struggled with my own mental health for a number of years, it is really important to me that this is something that is made a priority for people in leadership positions. I was the senior prefect for equality and diversity at my secondary school and I worked alongside a team of other people making sure that everyone at our school felt safe, cared for, and represented. I really enjoyed the opportunity to do this and I enjoy taking other leadership roles whenever possible for example leading a charity event that raised over £700 within a week during sixth form - I feel confident being in positions like these, and I really appreciate the opportunity to work within a team. I would love to be a part of the filmsoc committee, and would be privileged to represent all the wonderful, talented people within this society. 

I am standing for Welfare Officer because I think FilmSoc has the potential to be a very inviting and exciting society, even more than it is now, and I think I can help with this. This year, I have been a part of 10 films in a range of roles from BTSphotographer to director, so I have had a lot of experience with the society, and have seen the areas where I believe it needs improving. As W.O, my main priority would be to make FilmSoc a more inviting place (not just for the FilmBros!!). Being heavily involved with FemFilm this year, it has been made clear to me how many people want to get involved in FilmSoc/filmmaking but have felt too intimidated and excluded. I would champion FemFilm to happen again every term next year (we had 50+ applications and raised £2000, so there is a lot of support for it). I would organise more networking events since these are really beneficial for people who don't know how to get involved, or feel too scared to go straight for crew applications. I'd like to do monthly drop-ins, where people can come and chat to me about whatever. I will make sure sets and socials are safe and happy places, where everyone feels respected, listened to, trained-up and able to have a GOOD TIME, because that’s what making films at uni is about. Overall, I think I am a kind, smiley and friendly person, who is very approachable and not at all intimidating (I'm 5'4). I really love people so I would really like the role of making sure everyone feels happy and safe :D

I like Film Society for the community it has. I made so many new friends through the projects I have been a part of, partly because of a spirit of shared passion and mutual respect. This is a feeling lacking in other societies, and therefore I wish to maintain the special bond members have in FilmSoc. As somebody who can feel awkward around people and situations at times, I know the feeling of being uncomfortable when we should be having fun, and I now would like to help members of the society with any anxieties they may have, as I know it can be quite daunting to take part in our events. 

From my previous experience working as a police officer, I know that I have the adequate skills to handle situations that may arise, but also social empathy necessary to move forward and maintain the cohesion of FilmSoc. As Welfare Officer, my foremost priority would be the physical and mental wellbeing of the society. I will be prompt and organised in responding to any queries, and I promise to be impartial and non-judgemental in my interactions. I will also make sure to be present at all major events and productions and be a friendly face you can talk to. I am a friendly guy after all! There will be times during term when people may feel more overwhelmed than usual, and during these periods, I will make myself available for quick chats over any matter whatsoever, it would not have to be FilmSoc related.

I am very excited to contribute back to FilmSoc in the Welfare Officer Role!

Euan