To mark 2020 International Women’s Day (#EachforEqual), NCWQ is profiling an impressive women each day in and around the 8th March. These featured young women are past NCWQ Bursary Recipients, and have demonstrated incredible leadership, success, community service, intelligence and commitment to their personal and professional passions. In today’s feature, past bursary recipient Olivia Hargroder shares her thoughts.
To learn more about the bursary program, keep an eye on our website in the coming month.
1. What were the benefits to you in being a 2019 NCWQ bursary recipient?
The NCWQ bursary has enabled me to continue with my acting studies. I have now completed a Cert IV in acting for stage and screen and have just started a NIDA Open course in Screen Acting. I was lucky enough to win an award at the 2019 Qld One Act Play Festival for my role in ‘I Hate Hedda’.
2. What are your goals for this year?
My goal this year is to put together some great takes for a showreel, launch my own website and audition for upcoming roles in film. Inclusive filming is really taking off and it is no longer acceptable to have characters with disabilities played by able bodied actors. Diversity is the new black and inclusive filmmakers will need diverse actors who are fully trained and ready to work in the industry. I’m ready.!!
3. What is your personal mantra or self-talk that you use to keep yourself on track in pursuing your aspirations?
I always say ‘Olivia, believe in yourself, work hard and then work even harder and your dreams will come true’.
I also say: ‘Always have a Plan B as sometimes things happen in a different way- never give up’.
4. Who have been your most significant female role models?
My female role models are Dame Quentin Bryce, Dani Harmer and Jessica Mauboy.