I started out as a youth worker, working with vulnerable kids in the criminal justice system and refugee programs. One day I borrowed a mate’s camcorder, took it to work, and just started making stuff — so the journey has been pretty ad hoc. I had no formal training and learned the ropes as I went.

I’ve always enjoyed crafting an idea from the ground up— finding those seams of gold that bring a story to life and discovering new or unexpected ways to approach the story.

The Last Photo campaign for CALM is a recent example — it helped bring conversations around suicide into the mainstream and won the Cannes Grand Prix for Film, along with dozens of other top awards around the world.

I spend a lot of time at the coalface in the casting process, using my documentary people-finding experience and casting a wide net — between actors and non-actors, street casting and socials — to find unique, unseen faces with range and capacity for connection. I’m always looking for people you warm to, even if you’re not sure why.

I write and direct short films, having made three in the last three years. My first two films, Small Change and Mouse!, have played over fifty festivals and picked up lots of silverware. I also have two features in development.

My most recent film, Rule Britannia, is a take on our national attitude to refugees. It sees a pair of “patriots” take to the waves in an attempt to stop the small boats — only to find themselves sinking and begging for help from the very people they set out to stop. 

I believe in the positive power of film, so I try to shoot as much charity and pro bono work as I can. I’m always open to discussing and developing ideas with charities — so do get in touch if you have an idea that needs a fire lit under it.