Simeon Kelly

A filmmaking graduate says winning a prestigious award has reinforced his belief in his abilities as he starts a career in video production.

Simeon Kelly has just completed his degree in Filmmaking and Screenwriting at the University of Worcester, where he won the Robert Burley Memorial Award for New Talent in Filmmaking.

“It means the most to me, to be acknowledged by those who have far greater experience and ability, and whose achievements I hope to strive towards,” he said. “I couldn’t be more grateful to receive this award.”

Simeon said he spent his time at university meant he could work alongside other creatives and filmmakers, and that the opportunities he was presented with meant he could improve his abilities as a storyteller.

“My time in Worcester has prepared me far more than I could have expected when entering university,” he said. “I visited the equipment stores frequently and became comfortable using industry-standard equipment, and The Hive library was an amazing place to write screenplays and ideas for my films.”

Simeon, 21, from Northampton, has already secured a job as a Video Editor and Videographer for a creative marketing agency, working on studio shoots, lighting, camera operation and editing.

He said: “I hope this award will give people confidence in me that I care about filmmaking and allow me to develop my own narrative feature films in the future. It’s incredibly helpful as an external endorsement that helps demonstrate my worth and ability within the medium.”

Simeon paid tribute to the support of his friends and family: “Everyone close to me was extremely proud to learn of my award, especially those who I had collaborated with on the way to receiving the award, who I couldn’t have achieved it without.”

Simeon is graduating from the institution that has been named Daily Mail University of the Year for Graduate Jobs 2027, and is the UK’s leading multi-subject university for sustained graduate employment, further study or both one year after graduation. He received his award and degree during a week of graduation ceremonies held at Worcester Cathedral from September 8-10.  

Professor Sally Moyle, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Worcester said: “We’re incredibly proud of all of our graduates, especially those who have been recognised with awards for going above and beyond during their studies.”  

“Students at Worcester are graduating from the University of the Year for Graduate Jobs 2027, putting them in an excellent position to secure employment and make a positive contribution to society,” she continued. “Winning an award like this is a great way for students to demonstrate to future employers the effort and commitment they have invested in their university experience. They can look back with pride on their outstanding achievements.”