Yen Yau joins Lottery-funded First Light filmmaking initiative as Strategic Partnerships Manager

Yen Yau has been appointed into the new position of Strategic Partnerships Manager at First Light, the UK Film Council has announced.
Using £1.1 million a year of the UK Film Council’s share of National Lottery proceeds, First Light enables young people between the ages of five to 18 to make short films under the guidance of professional filmmakers, helping youngsters to learn filmmaking skills including scriptwriting, producing, editing, acting, sound, lighting and directing, and improving their communication and team working skills.
Yau will work closely with Pip Eldridge, the First Light Chief Executive Officer, to implement and sustain strategic relationships with national and regional partners across the UK.
Prior to taking up her new post, Yau was the Professional Development Manager of national charity Arts & Business, working out of the West Midlands office.
She has also worked as Deputy Director at the Birmingham Film & TV Festival and freelanced for organisations such as Rushes Soho Shorts Film Festival and Big Brum Theatre in Education.
Since it was set up in 2001, First Light has funded more than 600 films produced by more than 9,000 filmmakers across the UK. The annual First Light Film Awards ceremony is fast becoming a highlight of the UK film calendar.
Commenting on her appointment, Yau said: “I am absolutely delighted to be taking up this new post at such an exciting organisation. I look forward to playing an active role in the delivery of new partnerships
“It’s going to be a challenging role, but it will be one that I relish.”
Pip Eldridge added: “It’s fantastic to have Yen on board and I’m sure she’ll turn out to be an excellent appointment. Her experience lends itself well to the new role of Strategic Partnerships Manager, a role that will help the First Light initiative reach even greater heights.”
(GB)