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.
– Derrick Shema
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.
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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.
