After finishing university and growing up in Rochdale, I often struggled to connect my passion for performing with the opportunities available in my hometown. As a South Asian woman, it felt even harder. Roles were limited, often stereotyped or male dominated, and pursuing this path wasn’t always seen as a “successful” career. Discovering Breaking Barriers came at the perfect time, because their message and their work finally aligned with the kind of creative space I had been searching for.
I first got involved with them during Stories We Tell: Rochdale. Even though I didn’t get the role I originally applied for, they were the first company to remember me, my ideas, and where I could contribute. They brought me into another part of the project, and I genuinely felt seen and valued for the work I had put in. Volunteering with them was a positive and inspiring experience. I met passionate, creative people who cared deeply about performing arts and making a real difference in Rochdale. It felt like being part of a community that wanted to build something meaningful, and for the first time, I felt a real sense of belonging.
I continued my journey with Breaking Barriers by applying for their Outdoor Producing Course. At that point, I was still figuring out where I wanted to fit within the industry, but I had always been naturally organised, so producing felt like something worth exploring. I was accepted onto the course and stayed connected with the team, which made the experience even more supportive. Throughout the training, I learned what outdoor production involves, from paperwork and planning to creative decision making, and I gained a clear understanding of how festivals, parades and large‑scale outdoor events come together.
I remember having such a fun time learning, growing and gaining new knowledge, and it made me excited about what the future could hold. This journey, which began back in January 2026, has led me to where I am today: working with Breaking Barriers as an official member of staff in the role of Office Assistant. I never imagined I would end up working with them, and now I have the honour of supporting individuals who were once in the same position as me, helping them become part of something bigger within the community and within themselves.
I am proud of the person I’ve become in an industry that still lacks representation. Being able to contribute to that change means a lot to me, and Breaking Barriers has been the support that helped lift me onto my feet.
