#13: Abigail Coniah, Actress & Producer - Rising Above: A Journey in the Film Industry

Join us as Abigail Coniah shares her inspiring journey in the film industry, from her start as an extra in "Attack the Block" and starring in commercials, to creating her own films. We delve into the challenges of being typecast, transitioning from theatre to film, and the importance of patience in building a career. Abigail's resilience in the face of personal tragedy and discrimination is truly empowering. Tune in for a candid discussion on embracing challenges, personal growth, and finding strength in storytelling.Key Lessons• Transitioning from theatre to film/TV can bring unique challenges and require a different approach in finding agents and securing roles. • Personal struggles, faith, and perseverance play a significant role in navigating the film industry and overcoming obstacles like age-related and diversity issues. • Sharing personal stories, such as through filmmaking, can be a powerful way to connect with audiences and highlight important themes like growth, gratitude, and resilience.ResourcesReal DramaA group that John Boyega told Abigail about, which she joined to do short films and actor training.Generation ArtsAn organization Abigail joined, which offered a training program and opportunities to apply for drama schools.http://www.generationarts.org.ukCasting Agencies:Casting CollectiveA casting agency through which Abigail got work.https://www.castingcollective.co.ukUni-versal ExtrasAnother casting agency through which Abigail found work.https://www.universalextras.co.ukTalent TalksAn agency through which Abigail did a music video.https://www.talenttalks.co.ukALRA (Academy of Live and Recorded Arts)The Drama School Abigail attendedhttps://alra.co.ukNFTS (National Film and Television School)Producing Your First Feature (Short Course)https://nfts.co.uk/producing-your-first-featureUK Resources and Support Services for Stillbirth, Infant Loss, and GriefHTB Church Bereavement CourseA course offered by HTB (Holy Trinity Brompton) Church that helped Abigail cope with her grief.https://htb.org/bereavementSaying Goodbye ServiceA service for parents who have lost children, where parents can light a candle and hear their child's name read out loud.https://www.sayinggoodbye.orgSands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity)Supports anyone affected by the death of a baby and promotes research to reduce the loss of babies' lives. They offer bereavement support and resources for parents and families.https://www.sands.org.ukThe Compassionate Friends (UK Chapter)Supports bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents who have suffered the death of a child. They provide local support groups, a helpline, and various resources.<a href="https://www.tcf.org.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer"...