November 2013 in a small loft room in Fitzrovia, Scott Griffin, Ludo Fealy and Chrys Aldred launched 1920 from their mobile phones’ Hot Spot. Within that 1st year, one room became three with a second space opened in Bristol. And, 1920 began to grow…

Now 10 years strong, Bristol had a makeover and Fitzrovia became Farringdon to accommodate a team of now 80 and rising. Despite 1920's exponential growth, they’ve taken great care in retaining a personal, boutique feel that's so important to their clients as well as their staff. Allowing 1920 to be the best version of themselves as a Company and Production partner. By keeping their primary focus on quality, collaboration and service, 1920 is built on reputation and success. Proudly working alongside leading Production Companies, Agencies, and most recently, Film/TV Producers and Directors in their newly established Film and Episodic department.

We spoke to 1920's Managing Director, Jon Hurst, Creative Director, Bill McNamara, and VFX Producer, Molly Russell, about qualities young professionals need in order to thrive.

What’s the main reason for coming on board as a Sponsor for the Young Arrows?

BILL: The Young Arrows is a fantastic initiative that helps support and nurture young talent in our industry. Being associated with emerging talent is a huge positive for 1920. As a company, we’re always on the lookout for the next generation of creatives. Those who want to grow within the industry and challenge us to reach new heights. It’s always rewarding to be involved with young talent and to expose our brand to the future of the industry.

JON: Honestly, we want to support our team and help bring more young talent into the industry. For us, it’s all about growth.

What’s the best part about sponsoring the Young Arrows?

JON: There isn’t another event like YA’s for young people, particularly in Post-Production. A chance for them to be recognised in front of the industry deserves our support

What do the Young Arrows mean to you?

JON: It’s a chance for us to give back. Nothing better than seeing someone happy to be put forward who has been going the extra mile. Especially those who aren’t usually the first name on an award.

What’s the role of the Young Arrows within the advertising industry?

JON: The Young Arrows shine a light on the different parts of our industry and the many ways people enter it. No matter your starting point, everyone has a role to play — and these awards celebrate that. Who doesn’t need a leg up now and then?

What advice would you give to anyone starting out in the industry? Or the best piece of advice you received early on in your career?

BILL: The advice I would give to anyone starting out in the industry is to make the most of every opportunity. Soak up every experience and learn as much as you can from those mentoring you in the early stages of your career. Don’t make excuses for why you can’t achieve something. Supervisors generally respond well to young people who show initiative and strive not only to meet but to exceed their goals. Push yourself as hard as you can and stand out. This is a fantastic industry where early ambition and dedication can really propel your career forward.

MOLLY: Jump in with two feet. Go to a networking event, subscribe to a newsletter, and just immerse yourself in the sector you want to be in. There’s so much more available than job postings, even if you don’t land a position straight away, getting in the right circles can be so helpful.

What are some of the challenges young people face starting off in the industry, and what can we do about these challenges?

MOLLY: The initial foot in the doorway can be difficult for young people, especially if you’re not connected to the industry in any way. I think it’s important to take the time to share opportunities and knowledge. Giving talks in schools or providing work experiences is a few of the ways you can engage young people.

What do you think are the most important skills/qualities that young professionals need when starting out in the advertising industry?

MOLLY: Collaboration and communication. Advertising is such an interdependent industry, every project I’ve been on relies on the ability to work effectively with others. I hate to be cheesy, but teamwork really does make the dream work.

What are you most looking forward to for the rest of the year creatively?

BILL: In a creative industry that constantly pushes boundaries, it’s always exciting to see what new and innovative work will emerge from agencies, film companies, edit houses, sound studios, and post-production companies. The most powerful and groundbreaking work happens when all these parts come together in collaboration. I can’t wait to see what the second half of the year produces.

MOLLY: I’m really enjoying seeing how well some friends and colleagues have progressed recently, both in my own work and the wider industry. I’m so proud of the dedication and detail that goes into their projects and I’m looking forward to seeing it pay off creatively for them.

Thank you to 1920 for sponsoring the Young Arrows Cinematography award.