This story was originally published on The Spinoff
I grew up in front of the TV. For me, it was more than just background noise: it was connection. Shows like bro’Town, Street Legal, and Outrageous Fortune weren’t just entertainment, they were a reflection of us. They created shared moments with whānau, and told the stories that brought us together.
That feeling of connection, paired with a lack of seeing people that looked like me on screen, sparked my passion for storytelling and shaped my career in film and television. Having worked across everything from running roles to accounts, I now have the privilege as a producer to tell stories that reflect the diverse Aotearoa I’ve always known.
For a long time, we’ve punched well above our weight, telling bold, distinctive stories that resonate deeply, both here and abroad. And while shows like After the Party prove that we still have the ability to create exceptional work that captures hearts and minds around the world, 2024 was one of the toughest years our local TV industry has ever seen.
