From behind the Lens to Leading the Scene: My Transformation at Mediazone

When I first joined Mediazone, I thought I had it all figured out. I was confident in my skills and had experience in camera operation, production, and post-production. In my mind the world of media was a solitary one – capturing footage alone and editing on my own. That is how I believed things were done. But as soon as I started at Mediazone, I quickly realized how wrong I was. 

Before Mediazone, I worked alone and assumed that production was an individual effort. However, in a professional environment, I discovered that communication and collaboration are at the core of everything. It is not enough to have technical skills; effective teamwork and clear communication make all the difference. Mediazone introduced me to a whole new way of working, showing me that media production truly thrives on shared ideas and collective effort. From my first day, I sensed that Mediazone was special, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Every experience here has not only sharpened my skills but also boosted my confidence. 

A project that stands out to me is Dr. Loizou Medical School Video podcast project, where I worked as a Production Assistant. As the title suggests, I was involved in everything – assisting the team, managing technical tasks, and more. But there is one moment that stayed with me: using the clapperboard in front of the camera and delivering my lines. For someone who usually prefers to stay behind the scenes, this was a challenge and a true test of my confidence. Standing there and speaking felt like climbing a 250 meters mountain. I almost backed out, but I pushed through, and it is a moment I will always remember.  

I often think back to something John, the Head of Mediazone, once said to me: “Derrick, do you think climbing rocks is the hardest thing you have done? No, Mediazone is harder.” The challenges I have faced here have been tougher than I could have imagined, but they have also been the experiences that have helped me grow and continue to shape me. 

The training I receive at Mediazone is unlike anything I had experienced before. What makes it special is how it is delivered – not by just one person, but by various staff members, each with their own approach. Some were strict, others more laidback, and some were persistently thorough, determined to make sure I absorbed every detail. This helped me in ways I had not anticipated. From routine tasks like checking equipment in and out, to small challenges like hiding things in camera bags to test my observation skills, every bit of training was hands-on and invaluable. This kind of training experience is truly one of a kind. 

Over time, I stepped into various roles across different projects, as camera operator, technical assistant, editor, and director. Each role carried significant responsibility. Through each one, I learned the importance of flexibility and quick decision-making. Media production is not just about capturing the perfect shots; it is about adapting to changes in real time, staying calm under pressure, and prioritizing clear communication and teamwork. 

Reflecting on my journey, especially the training I received in September, I see how Mediazone has not only strengthened my technical skills but also instilled in me the values of collaboration, professionalism, and dedication to every project. As I continue this path, I look forward to tackling new creative challenges and contributing to this dynamic field. Mediazone has left a lasting impact on me, and I will carry its lessons with me throughout my career. One quote from our Head of Mediazone that stuck with me is: “Behave like you want to be here, aim for quality over quantity, and be professional.” These words, along with everything I have learned, will continue to guide me forward. 

As Studio Assistants, one of our pledges is: “I was somebody when I came; I will be a better somebody when I leave.” And I genuinely believe that. 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

November 25, 2024 /  

How Mediazone turns work into a blast

Since joining Mediazone, I hadn’t had the chance to shoot any big parties until the Carnival party at Loft in March 2024. My experience has been primarily in structured environments like marathons, fairs, and live–to–tape productions where every movement and adjustment need to be precise. Until now, big parties have been entirely unfamiliar territory for me. 

Then I was assigned to be a camera operator for “Let’s go Carnival”. Like with any first experience, I felt some anxiety about the quality of my shots, especially in a lively party setting. I also anticipated some challenges in filming the planned shots that involved directing, knowing that partygoers might not always welcome the presence of a camera. To make matters worse, I had 2 consecutives classes at the university right before the party, which left me feeling exhausted. While I usually enjoy shooting events with the team, that day I felt too drained to be enthusiastic about another four hours of work. But little did I know, those next few hours would feel like anything but work. 

As the Loft began filling up, so did my anxiety. Before the party started, I was shooting b-roll and other shots that did not require a crowd, working alongside Tracy, our director, and Eleni, who was assisting. I knew that the moment the main bulk of the partygoers arrive, it would be time to dive in, and that is when the unfamiliar part of the job would begin. Although I wanted to delay this part, I knew that every minute was precious, and no time could be wasted. Right before I started working in the crowd, Tracy gave me more specific directions on the exact type of shots she needed, which really helped clarify my focus and gave me a boost of confidence as I stepped into the unknown.  

Once I did, it turned out to be a wonderful experience. Everyone at the party was excited to be on camera, showing off their costumes and happily taking directions from Tracy. Meanwhile, Eleni was hyping people up left right and centre. It felt oddly welcoming, as if we were already friends with everyone there, even though we might have only known five people, in a crowd of 200 to 300. At times, students would even pull me to different spots, eager to be featured in the video. Within five minutes, all my anxiety was gone, and those next three to four hours flew by. I felt less like a camera operator and more like a fellow student capturing friends having the time of their lives. I completely forgot it was work.  

Forgetting I am at work is a common experience for me at Mediazone. It is not because I lose focus or zone out, but because every event and activity that I am involved with, is either incredibly enjoyable or a valuable learning experience. It is a refreshing contrast to the typical job where you might sit in one place for hours, repeating the same tasks day after day. Mediazone is different. For many students, balancing a job with studies sounds daunting or overwhelming, as university already feels like a lot of work—so who would want to add more to that? I felt the same when I first joined, but I quickly learned that the skills and insights you gain here actually help you excel in your classes, making that academic ‘pile’ feel more manageable. This is not a secret either; ask your lecturers, especially for practical courses – they know that Mediazone students often find it easier to keep up with classwork. 

That night was a perfect example of work feeling like a fun night out. It was not the only time work felt that way, but it was one of the most impactful, solidifying my belief that  That night, I not only gained my first genuine experience recording a large-scale party, but I also learned there is no reason to stress over things that have not even happened. For the first time, I witnessed how a calm, composed director could uplift an entire team.   

Whether I am working or simply attending the next carnival party at UNIC, I hope it will be as memorable as the 2024 celebration, and I hope to see you there too! 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

November 11, 2024 /  

Celebrating Our Mediazone Volunteers: A Testimonial from Max Parker

As the Head of Mediazone, I am immensely proud to witness the incredible journeys our student volunteers undertake. Today, I am thrilled to share a heartfelt testimonial from Max Parker, a dedicated volunteer from Colorado, U.S., who has been with us for the last two semesters through the University of Nicosia Global Semesters program.

Max’s experience exemplifies one of Mediazone’s most important missions: providing practical, hands-on experience in the digital media industry for our students, combined with mentorship that fosters both technical skills and personal growth. Guided by our passionate staff and student team, Max thrived within our supportive community, achieving remarkable progress. He took on roles such as camera operator, production assistant, editor, and clapperboard/slate operator with enthusiasm and positivity.

Below is Max Parker’s testimonial, capturing the essence of his transformative journey with us. We are thankful for all our volunteers and proud of Max’s accomplishments. His words reflect the spirit of Mediazone and the profound impact our program can have on budding media professionals.

Thank you, Max, for sharing your journey. Your growth and achievements inspire all potential students in this field, and we are confident that your future in the media industry will be bright and successful.

John Ioannou
Head of Mediazone
Mediazone

“Volunteering at Mediazone was one of the most impactful experiences during my time in Cyprus. Mediazone provided me with more hands-on experience than I could have ever imagined. After just one week I was already directing a project, and under the guidance of other student assistants learned about all aspects of production in an environment mirroring the real digital media industry.
Whether it is scriptwriting, video editing, or backstage management there’s always a role to both teach and enhance one’s skills alongside a community that encourages and motivates one another to create the best content they can. Both John (Head of Mediazone) and Kyri (Facilities & Operations Coordinator | Production Support)  are also incredibly strong leaders, and working beside them and watching how they direct and manage projects is an honor I will never forget. It is clear they both have a great passion for their work and it really shows in how they develop and create content. Mediazone truly prepares one for their future in a way that is unlike anything I have seen before. I am so thankful for my time, brief as it was, as part of the Mediazone crew. I know that the things I learned will help foster my future and I will hold onto this experience forever.”

Thanks again!

-Max Parker 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.\

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

June 27, 2024 /  

Getting your hands on professional equipment in Mediazone

Professional filming equipment can start off a little intimidating – at least, that’s how it felt for me. Before starting off at the University the closest experience I had to a camera was using my mum’s point and shoot which I used to make Windows Movie-Maker YouTube videos. Fast forward to my first year of university, and I’m suddenly holding a much heavier and much more expensive piece of equipment.

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December 13, 2022 /  2

MUSIC VIBES 2022

Hello, my name is George, and I have been a studio assistant at Mediazone since September 2022. Officially being a part of Mediazone has made me feel like I was able to partake in a place that understands my creativity, and sharpens my skills all while helping me gain a multitude of experiences in my field. A few short weeks later, I got the chance to participate in my first event, where I was a camera operator for Music vibes 2022.

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November 21, 2022 /  2

SELF-REFLECTION AND MANAGING EXPECTATIONS

Ever since joining the Mediazone family in January 2022, I knew this would be the start of a long, memorable and progressive journey. Right from the first interview, the words “commitment” and “team” made me believe that this was a place where I could hone my knowledge, sharpen my skills and gain priceless experience in the broad field of filmmaking.

Fitting in at Mediazone proved to be an easy transition, and I am glad to have taken up this opportunity. Hence, my colleagues have turned into treasured friends, advisors and ardent supporters.

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November 14, 2022 /  2

Deep thoughts about how Mediazone shapes you, and how you can use it in the Future.

I have always heard about Mediazone from lecturers who kept talking about the “audiovisual” hub of the university, and when I was picking up equipment from Mediazone for my classes I wanted to know what they did.

Soon I was able to join Mediazone and entering Mediazone was a new space for me, a different environment that I didn’t know about. However, through the training I did in Mediazone I was able to learn a large amount of information in a short period of time making me comfortable with the equipment.

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October 25, 2022 /  2

My Journey with Mediazone

Being in Mediazone has lent me experiences and skills I thought I couldn’t achieve. The first thing I learned when I entered Mediazone is that achievement and comparison aren’t with you and others, but it’s you versus yourself. This idea allowed me to see myself gradually increase in learning skills quicker and become more knowledgeable in what I know.

In my first year, I started as a volunteer in Mediazone. As a volunteer, you soak up all the information, trying to observe all the skills they teach you. It’s also the best time to dig in deep with all the equipment, which gives you more freedom to find your weak spots and work on them as much as you want. Being a volunteer helped me get a lot of advice from all the other Studio assistants around me, who helped me become comfortable with the environment and what could eventually be my responsibilities.

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October 14, 2022 /  2

What is team building in Mediazone?

By definition, team building is the process by which people who work together become a productive team.

Even though I am a new member in Mediazone, I can already say that the team building here is on a really advanced level. All those indoor and outdoor activities create a strong bond between the Mediazone team which keeps everything in great balance.

Activities that in my opinion have lots of teambuilding benefits, are of course the training sessions -where we learn for example about new technology, how to use equipment, edit – and handle events. These are group activities on the most part.

In contrast with other trainings that I have experienced in the past, Mediazone always finds the best and most effective ways to keep everyone’s attention, and actually lets us learn something new. Some other activities that help the team building process grow, are the events. We all communicate with each other professionally in order to get work efficiently done. That is something that keeps us close in both professional and personal level. I personally understood that even though we are all students, we have to acknowledge our limits and be strict judges of ourselves to progress.

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February 25, 2020 /  2