This content was submitted by Ela Ertan
My name is Ela Ertan. I am a 22-year old artist from London. I recently completed my degree in Fine Art - Painting, from The University of Edinburgh. I am wanting to pursue a career in film and television, particularly within the art department. Since I graduated from Edinburgh in August 2021, I have gotten experience on numerous film and high-end television sets as a supporting actor - which has been a great way to get insight into the production and the many roles involved in film and TV.
Have you benefited from any ScreenSkills support so far?
I have benefited from SceenSkills support so far, as there are many fantastic courses to take on the website, and valuable information for people like myself who are wanting to get into the film and television industry. I have done the online course on addressing unconscious bias: basic awareness in the workplace, which was incredibly informative. Also, I have taken the course on tackling harassment and bullying at work - a massively important course which I believe all people in production should take. Crucially, I have also taken the coronavirus basic awareness on the production training course. I was motivated to take all these courses as they all were incredibly important, valuable, and informative topics that taught me a lot, and which I believe many people would benefit from.
What effect has this support had on your career so far?
These courses have taught me a lot of valuable information which is important to be aware of as someone wanting to be involved in the production of films and high-end TV. I believe the courses are incredibly important for the health and wellbeing of both individuals and productions.
What is the most interesting/remarkable/proud moment or achievement of your career so far?
As I have just recently graduated from University - I am still looking to break into the industry in the art department. However, working as a supporting actor has been incredibly valuable in giving me insight into the production of film and high-end TV, and how the different departments work together.
If you could give advice to someone interested in pursuing your job role or a career in the screen industries more generally, what would you say?
I would say be persistent, and don't give up! Especially when just starting out and wanting to make it in the screen industries, follow your gut and keep trying to reach that goal! You've got to believe in yourself. There are so many resources online, people you can connect with for advice - and for me, working as a supporting actor has given me a lot of valuable insight into the screen industries. It's exciting to know that this is the career you want to follow - so keep at it, you'll get there!