In conversation with Cereinyn Ord

1.     Introduce yourself

My name is Cereinyn Ord. My background is mixed. I began in film working in the camera department and then as an editor.

2.     What is your job title?

I am a director as of recently. I began directing non-fiction mini docs mainly regarding the economy and environment.

3.     Who looks after the kids when you are working?

My child attended a nursery part time but when Covid came around, I got ill and then stranded in Italy. By default, he stopped going to nursery. Now, I am with my parents and they look after him a few hours at least, every day, giving me the time I need.

4.     How long did you take off work after having your baby?

7 months. And after that, he just went to nursery 8 hours a week so it wasn't until he was 1.5 that he went a little more. And then Covid...

5.     Would you say that you have a good work/life balance?

I am getting there. I find doing yin yoga incredibly rejuvenating. It calms me down and gives me the resources to better deal with work and enjoy life.

6.     Are you job sharing or working flexibly?

6. I work flexibly for my own company. I am working on 3.5 short commissions. The deadlines for all of these projects have been extended by half a year. So, I have more time free than anticipated.

7.     What do you think is the hardest part of being a working in media/film/tv industry and being a parent?

First, I should preface by saying that I took a long break away from working in media. But when I began I did feel that in film and media, there's a huge emphasis on being cool and networking which doesn't actually better the work. Now that I'm returning as a parent, I'm not cool so by default this frees me up to use my work time to make work.

8.     What are your tips for any other women out there wanting to have kids and keep a career in film?

I suspect there are many more people better placed to answer this than me. But, having a good support network will surely always be a boon. Having an understanding with your partner, if you have one, that your work is very important, is key. Knowing that you child will be interested in at least learning something about your work if you love it, is probably also a reason to keep going and getting better at what you do.

9.     Any advice for anyone about to return to work after maternity?

Try not to leave the industry altogether before returning!!!

10.  What advice did you wish someone had given you?

Be good people and be with good people.