Industry awards celebrate students at Solent

Rise promotes gender diversity in the media sector, celebrates the skills of women across the broadcast industry, and supports the next generation of talent through mentoring and outreach work.

Sophie says: “Rise is a community I plan to be a part of for my whole career, and I feel privileged to be shortlisted for an award with them so early on in my career.”

After a false start at another university, Sophie later found her stride at Solent, crediting the facilities and course leaders for guiding her towards a career in media and broadcasting.

Sophie, who was the first in her family to attend university, continues: “I chose Solent because the course is practical, and the University puts an emphasis on gaining industry experience. My time as a student has gone so quickly and it’s been really rewarding working at different events and getting involved with the TV and live events society, Sonar Events. I have really felt a sense of community.”

The Rise Awards winners will be announced on Tuesday 7 November at a glittering ceremony at London’s historic music venue, Troxy.

Sophie’s nomination follows in the footsteps of Solent graduate, Holly Van Der Rest, who won Student of the Year at the 2021 Rise Awards and is now working in the broadcast technology industry.

The University is also celebrating awards nods for three other members of Solent’s Film and Media community, who were shortlisted at the Production Futures Breakthrough Awards.

Kate O’Driscoll, Senior Lecturer in TV Production and Post Production Film and TV at Solent University, says: “We arm our students with the work-ready skills they need to thrive in their careers. Sophie’s recognition, and that of her peers, demonstrates our commitment to delivering an industry-standard education for our students and the next wave of talent coming through Solent.”