Creative arts students at Walsall College recently received careers inspiration and advice on self-employment from a business owner specialising in video production, animation production and live streaming.

Mike Chinn, director and co-founder of Wolverhampton-based Stone’s Throw Media visited the college during a My Week of Work programme for creative arts students.

He spoke about how he and his business partner, Matt Weston built the company from the ground up, highlighting their growing client list which includes the NHS, Collins Aerospace and the University of Wolverhampton. He took part in a Q & A session with the graphic design and games art students based on topics such as project management and profitability and building positive relationships with clients.

They also discussed the skills and attributes Stone’s Throw Media would look for when employing a junior creative.

“Stone’s Throw Media are firm believers in supporting future generations to see opportunities that they might not be aware of,” said Mike.

“Having been in their shoes, we know how crucial it is to hear from professionals thriving in the roles they aspire to and understanding how they became successful - I remember a talk we attended that inspired us to start Stone's Throw."

“We were particularly keen to encourage the students to embrace a culture of continuous learning and skills development. By doing so and by pursuing any networking and volunteering opportunities that come their way, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.”

Joseph Hunt, a graphic design student said he valued Mike’s insights and advice.

He said: “This talk provided me with a way of getting into the industry through self-promotion and taking on voluntary work as a way to make it to where I want to be."

Art and design student, Mia Nunney also felt she benefited from the industry talk.

She said: “It was useful to hear that you don't necessarily need a large history of jobs. As long as you show willingness and can demonstrate you are good at what you do, you can still be a strong applicant and an employer may like that even more.“