Meet Temilorun

Hey! My name is Temilorun Enemuwe, I’m from Atlanta, Georgia, USA, and I’m doing an MA in Documentary Filmmaking at USW! I was looking for MA programs that pertained to Documentary filmmaking specifically. I saw that USW had a great program and was inspired to apply! 

I applied to the MA Documentary Film program at the University of South Wales because I wanted to learn how to create professional documentary films. I wanted to learn advanced interviewing techniques, how to find stories, extract information from interviewees, and piece together a story in an informative, truthful, and engaging manner. I was particularly interested in pitching to BBC Wales’ “It’s My Shout", and partaking in the work placement opportunities that the University of South Wales offers with Wales-based production companies.

I grew up watching Doctor Who, so the UK has always had a special place in my heart. I am continually and endlessly inspired by the stories and screenplays of Steven Moffat, Russell T Davies, and Chris Chibnall. I was drawn to Cardiff, Wales, as it is not only the home of my favourite TV show; it is also a thriving hub of film activity and has endless opportunities for networking and professional growth. 

In my first semester at USW, all six pathways (Documentary, Producing, Directing, Screenwriting, Editing & Cinematography) had lectures and lessons together. It was a bit more introductory work (such as an Intro to Film Theory and Documentary) and was mostly group-work focused. I was tasked with making three short films and got to collaborate with other students. I was able to learn from my peers, network and build friendships.

My second semester was more pathway-based. I only had documentary-specific lectures and lecturers and got to do a group project with classmates in my pathway. In my final semester, I challenged myself by making a film by myself. It was scary and difficult, but I think it only forced me to grow as a filmmaker. It was eye-opening because it proved that I could create good films. I think at the beginning of the year I was scared of using my camera in Manual mode, I never shot in LOG, didn’t know how to use a Shoulder-rig and had never tried out any other lenses before. Now, by the end of my time at USW I had acquired access to contributors, applied for location permits, filled out risk assessment forms, filmed my first ever solo-film about a pair of glassblowing artists inside of a hot-shop (Blowfish Glass UK), filmed solo for 7+ hours over 2 days, edited over 5 hours of footage and colour graded a film all by myself! I forced myself to face my fears and proved to myself that I am indeed capable of great things. 

Throughout my journey I also had immense support from my lecturers Emyr Jenkins, Michael Brown & Florence Ayisi, who consistently gave me their advice and helped me through an iterative process of self-reflection and growth as a filmmaker.

The Media Loans room on the ground floor is the most useful resource for film students at USW. It gives students access to industry-standard equipment. There is also an online database filled with tutorials for each piece of equipment. This resource gives you the freedom to play around and learn how to use industry-grade equipment in the comfort of your own home.

There are also many “special rooms” at USW that you can book for different reasons (such as a photography studio or a recording studio). Take full advantage of them too! You can access everything on USW Connect. 

I had the opportunity to pitch to BBC Cymru’s “Its My Shout” Wales and had a first-hand experience pitching to a group of commissioners at the BBC Roath building by Cardiff Bay.  I volunteered to be an extra for the Screen Alliance Wales promotional video (have a look at their website I play “The Dreamer!). I’ve also had the chance to go with Screen Alliance Wales and a small group of students to the House of Dragons Crew HQ Networking event in London. I got to speak to lot of industry professionals such as VFX Producer, Tom Horton, and even got to a sneak peek of the latest HOD episode!

I also had the opportunity to have work experience with the team at On Par Productions and on a BBC documentary film “Rick on the Roof” with Nan Davies. Both experiences were so valuable for me as they gave me a first-hand look into the documentary film industry. I was treated so kindly by everyone, and I always felt included and welcomed with open arms.

I love exploring Wales! My favorite thing to do is hike Pen Y Fan or visit the Barry Island Beach! I’m also a figure-skater so I skate in my spare time. 

Studying in the UK is a leap of faith but it’s worth it! You’ll end up learning so much about yourself. You’ll constantly surprise yourself by how much you grow and evolve into the person you’ve always wanted to be.