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The Unyielding Journey of Sandra Sciberras
In this episode of 'Not a Rich Kid,' hosted by Kath Dolheguy, Sandra Sciberras, an award-winning director, screenwriter, and storyteller, shares her inspiring journey from a working-class upbringing in Melbourne to becoming a notable film director. Sandra recounts her childhood as the daughter of Maltese migrants, her struggles and resilience as a teenager living on the streets, and her unexpected path to film school thanks to a supportive teacher. She details her experiences in the film industry, the vital role of community and mentorship, and the intersecting challenges of class and gender. Sandra also reflects on the realities of sustaining a creative career, including balancing day jobs and her relentless pursuit of filmmaking dreams. This episode sheds light on the importance of perseverance, the impact of supportive teachers, and the representation of working-class narratives in the arts.
00:00 Introduction to Not a Rich Kid Podcast
00:22 Meet Sandra Sciberras: From Streets to Film School
01:02 The Impact of Teachers and Film School Journey
01:26 Sandra's Filmography and Career Highlights
02:44 Early Life and Family Background
04:50 Growing Up in Melbourne's Commission Flats
07:36 Struggles and Realisations in High School
12:27 Discovering a Passion for Movies
14:32 Leaving Home and Life on the Streets
16:52 Returning Home and Finding Direction
21:20 Work Placement and Discovering Theater
27:48 Pursuing Film School and Early Career
40:27 Unexpected Opportunity in Sydney
41:48 The Challenges of Unpaid Work
43:45 First Funded Feature: Caterpillar Wish
45:32 Navigating the Film Industry
52:28 Balancing Art and Survival Jobs
57:02 Making a Sniper Movie
01:01:55 Reflections on Class and Mentorship
01:14:18 Encouraging Future Filmmakers
Get in touch:
Are you a working class person who wants to pursue a creative career but don't know where to start? Get in touch via instagram - we'd be happy to give you some advice.
Tell us who you would like to hear from. Is there someone we should invite on the podcast? Let us know!
The Not a Rich Kid Team:
Post audio - Mike Tillbrook
Theme song: ‘Barry Michael Takes a Train’ by Sand Pebbles - Written & performed by Ben Michael and performed and mixed by Murray Ono Jamieson.
Not a Rich Kid would not be possible without the support of:
Supported by the City of Melbourne Arts Grants
