Each took part in our 6-week training programme for producers, attending weekly sessions with industry professionals on topics like building a slate, budgeting and scheduling, handling pre-production, and more.

Our Lab culminated at Aesthetica 2024 where producers were introduced to writers pitching their short film ideas.

We’re delighted to introduce the cohort below and look forward to keeping a close eye on their production careers. 

Cherene is a versatile producer based in the North West and founder of emerging production company, LAST MINUTE WONDERS. Cherene is dedicated to bringing stories to life from their inception to final delivery, and her neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism) gives her a deep understanding of the industry. Cherene’s passion has led her to become a Certification Film Analyst for the BFI, alongside developing skills and competency by working on a number of short independent films and High-end TV productions.

Tiwonge is a Yorkshire-based business owner specialising in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. An MSc in Psychology and a creative at heart, she weaves her passion for Film and TV into all facets of her work. She is learning to be a producer and has directed and written poetry and short films. Her international background has instilled a dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices and a passion for authentic storytelling. She aims to create impactful content that bridges cultures and challenges stereotypes by reshaping our deeply embedded views and celebrating the richness of our experiences on screen. 

Jenny is a producer based in Newcastle, working across documentary and hybrid films that explore our relationships with one another and with the natural world. She recently produced a feature-length documentary alongside producing/self-shooting a number of short docs. Jenny is passionate about opening up access to filmmaking, and works with a number of community arts organisations as a mentor, programmer, projectionist, and creative facilitator. 

Isobel is a Manchester-based creative producer with experience developing film programmes for early-career filmmakers, young people, and communities. She has produced and executive-produced over 10 short films through various commissions and projects, showcasing her dedication to impactful, co-created storytelling. Passionate about socially engaged film, Isobel is committed to bridging emerging talent with industry and driving positive change within the sector.

Adil Ladha is a producer, director, and writer dedicated to amplifying creative voices through storytelling. With a hands-on approach honed by years of on-set experience and a keen eye for colour and hyperrealism, Adil’s work, including his BBC Arts-commissioned short To The Moon, reflects his commitment to powerful, visually-dynamic narratives. His journey from the National Youth Film Academy to directing diverse shorts, promos, and music videos underscores his belief in learning through collaboration and practice.

Adam is a producer and writer based in Manchester. He oversees narrative development with the independent film company View Shift Productions, and his focus in recent years has been supporting early-career filmmakers. His films have garnered awards recognition from the Royal Television Society and Manchester Film Festival.

Melissa Sorrell is a freelance producer based in the North. She has a track record working on UK Jewish Film short documentaries, The Peacock That Passed Over (2022) and ContEruversial (2023). Most recently, Melissa produced the short drama "Our Neighbour's Ass", starring Dame Maureen Lipman. As well as producing short form content, Melissa has worked on feature films and HETV sets. Last year, she finished an 11-month contract in the locations office on the Disney/Lucasfilm production Andor, and is currently working as a location assistant for a two part feature film. 

Joe is a producer based in Liverpool, which is where he started Pedestrian Films with its mission to deliver engaging stories from script to screen, emphasising experimental, genre-based film projects. Joe’s work has screened at BAFTA/Academy Award qualifying festivals and his latest project, Fairview Park, supported by the British Film Institute, is now streaming on Channel 4.