It allows the students to hear it from experts and gain greater insights, in addition to networking opportunities.
Multiple sessions were held throughout the week including a keynote from Gurmit Samra, Creative Director, Producer and Writer.
Gurmit was also a lecturer at Deby College for several years. Gurmit has written the following blog to outline his key messages.
Embrace your creative passion:
I am thrilled to share some key insights from my recent Creative Journey Keynote at Derby College.
The journey of personal and professional growth can be unpredictable, but with passion and persistence, success, however you measure it, is achievable.
I am the founder of Impress Video, a video production agency, I also wrote and directed my debut feature film Get Gone on Amazon Prime, these things are minor stepping stones and would not have been possible had it not been for the steps I had taken in this blog.
People, resources and investing in yourself is everything!
Here’s a glimpse into the core ideas I shared.
The unlikely road
My path has been anything but straightforward. From the vibrant world of theatre to the structured environment of university, then onto teaching, and finally stepping into the realm of business – each phase taught me invaluable lessons.
These varied experiences have reinforced the belief that embracing an unconventional journey can lead to remarkable opportunities.
People: the heart of success
The first cornerstone of our discussion was people. Building a supportive network is crucial. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire, challenge, and uplift you.
Collaborate with like-minded peers, seek mentors, and never underestimate the power of a strong community. Remember, success is not a solo endeavour.
Harnessing resources
Next, we delved into the importance of resources. Today, we have unprecedented access to information and tools that can propel our growth.
Utilise online courses, attend workshops, read extensively, and leverage technology to stay ahead. The right resources can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
Start now, get perfect later
A vital takeaway is the mantra: “Start now, get perfect later.” Inspired by Rob Moore, this principle encourages taking immediate action instead of waiting for the perfect moment.
Perfection is a journey, not a starting point. Begin your projects, learn from the process, and refine your skills along the way.
Building and engaging with community
Community plays a pivotal role in personal and professional development. Engage with influencers, share your creations, and contribute to your community.
The exchange of ideas and feedback within a community fosters growth and innovation. Remember, creating and sharing are integral to continuous improvement.
Stepping stones to success
We also discussed the concept of “stepping stones.” Every small achievement is a step toward your larger goals.
Celebrate these milestones, as they build momentum and confidence. Each step, no matter how small, is progress.
Bringing something unique
What sets you apart is what you bring to the table. Your unique perspective, skills, and experiences are your assets. Don’t be afraid to showcase what makes you different.
Innovation often comes from those who dare to think differently.
Leveraging teamwork
Teamwork is essential. Collaborate effectively with others, recognize the strengths within your team, and work towards common goals.
A cohesive team can achieve what an individual alone cannot.
Trust the vision and keep going
Finally, trust your vision and keep moving forward. There will be challenges and setbacks, but resilience and perseverance are key.
Trust the process, stay committed to your goals, and keep pushing forward.
Practical steps to start today
To conclude, here are some actionable steps you can take immediately:
- Make friends and connect: Build your network and engage with people in your field.
- Geek out: Become a jack of all trades and master various skills quickly.
- Use the tools: Leverage available resources and technology.
- Seek feedback: Continuously get input from your peers and improve.
- Create outside work: Engage in projects beyond your regular work to expand your portfolio.
- Get professional: Approach your work with professionalism and dedication.
- Books and mentors: Invest time in learning from books and mentors who can guide you.
Remember, dedicate 30 minutes to an hour daily to your passion and let it compound over time. The key question you should ask yourself is, “Are you happy?”
Your happiness and fulfilment are the ultimate indicators of your success.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let’s continue to embrace our passions, support one another, and strive for creative enlightenment however that looks and feels for you.
Keep pushing forward and stay inspired!
