Coleg Gwent students “Meet the Media”.

Robin Moore and Rhiannon Forsyth on the panel for the “Meet the Media” event.

Hosted in partnership with Coleg Gwent, TownSq held their “Meet the Media” event on Monday 16th September which brought a wealth of inspiration and practical advice to students interested in pursuing careers within the creative sector. The event was designed to bridge the gap between industry professionals and students, offering insights into real-world challenges and opportunities in the creative industries.

Robin Moore, previously Head of Innovation at the BBC, and Rhiannon, Head of NFTS Cymru, stories provided students with a candid look at how they got their start in the creative sector. Robin emphasised the importance of hands-on learning, explaining how launching his own business allowed him to turn his skills into a successful career. He encouraged students to explore entrepreneurship as a way to break into the industry, finding what they excel at and building on that foundation. 

Rhiannon also focused on the theme of “learning by doing,” but from a different angle. She shared how perseverance in the face of setbacks is vital when starting out in the creative field. Her experience highlighted that even small opportunities can lead to significant breakthroughs, stressing the importance of staying committed and open to new challenges.

While the panel was the main focus, TownSq’s role in the event underscored their ongoing collaboration with Coleg Gwent in supporting students’ career development. TownSq has worked closely with the college over several years, helping students navigate the creative sector by offering practical guidance and business support. At this event, TownSq’s involvement gave students a clearer understanding of the various pathways into media, including self-employment and freelancing.

TownSq also stressed the importance of students equipping themselves with practical skills, encouraging them to take advantage of the resources available through the college and TownSq’s Online Workshops. The event served as a platform to connect students directly with professionals, offering them not just advice, but real-world insight into the realities of working in media.

The ‘Meet the Media’ event was an opportunity for Coleg Gwent students to gain first-hand knowledge of the media industry, learning from two professionals who have successfully navigated the challenges of starting out. With TownSq’s support, the event provided both inspiration and practical advice, helping students build the confidence and skills they need to take the next steps in their creative careers.

By fostering these connections, Coleg Gwent continues to offer students the resources and opportunities they need to succeed in the creative industries.