Why are all the mums leaving Natural History Television? With Series Producer Ruth Harries

Back for a second chat with the wonderful Faith Musembi, we take a deep dive into the statistics around diversity, access, and inclusion in Natural History filmmaking. With a lack of diverse crew and staff at so many levels, we spotlight some of the ways people are hoping to change things. 

As we think about diversity, access, and inclusion, what opportunities is the Natural History filmmaking industry offering to filmmakers, crew, and talent from underrepresented nations? Especially those from countries where Natural History crews return endlessly to film.  Producer Director Faith Musembi talks about her journey from Kenya to Bristol and back again, and the sliding doors moments pivotal to her career. 

Women working in Natural History Television are leaving at an alarming rate, with the main reason stated as its incompatibility with parenthood. Both working mums, Ruth & I discuss our own experiences and delve into the facts, statistics, and issues facing parents, specifically mums in our industry. We talk about parental / maternity leave, flexible hours, and working part-time. Then look for more solutions that could help other women and parents. 

Choosing to pursue a master's degree in Wildlife Filmmaking is a big undertaking both financially and in terms of time.  Current Student and incredible photographer Leanna Fernandez gives us the low down on the course and the scholarships and funding opportunities available for both UK and International students who might think it is financially out of reach. 

Listen to the first-hand experiences of a diverse raft of Natural History Filmmakers, from rising stars to seasoned professionals, from Runners to Executive Producers. This podcast looks at our industry, focusing on topics including; how to access entry-level roles, outreach and inclusion within our sector, how individuals can champion sustainable filmmaking, and of course featuring personal stories from on-location filming to behind-the-scenes production. 

BBC Wild Isles. Extraordinary. Dramatic. Beautiful. Sir David Attenborough celebrates the wonders of British wildlife. And it calls for urgent, immediate action from everyone to protect and restore nature for future generations. Series Producer Hilary Jeffkins discusses how the programme came about, her role, and what they aimed to achieve.   

Not all paths into Natural History Television are linear. Researcher Aishah Masood discusses how she secured work experience within the industry and worked to get that first entry-level role.