In conversation with Rita Andreetti
Rita and her famiy
1. Introduce yourself
My name is Rita Andreetti, I am a mom of two girls, 4 and 2 years old. I'm Italian but have been living in China since 2012. I moved here while back as I was struggling to work as creative director and project manager in Italy. Due to the 2009 financial crisis which had a long-lasting effect on my country. I coupled this creative job with being a film critic. I supported my studies and paid my bills by teaching in school and working as a swimming instructor and coach.
I used to feel embarrassed because of I led double life because I couldn't invest 100% of my time into filmmaking. However now I am more than proud of having nourished all my passions throughout the years, since they were vital to achieving all my targets.
2. What is your job title?
I am a filmmaker, a writer, a teacher, a mom.
3. Who looks after the kids when you are working?
My two girls were born in China, where there doesn’t exist a reliable infant care system. Normally one relies on the older generation and family network for childcare. Usually by the age of 3, children are enrolled in kindergarten.
Exceptionally you can find kindergartens that accept younger children, 2 years old. Without our own family support here, we relied on the support of a nanny for the first two years of both girls. I then planned my work very carefully around that and split the childcare with my husband during weekends and nights.
4. How long did you take off work after having your baby?
Never enough... The first four months I was totally involved with my baby, kind of didn't even check the emails! Then I slowly went back to work, but still only doing part-time. From what I have experienced, the full year was crucial for bonding and joyful growth together.
5. Would you say that you have a good work/life balance?
Yes, I am very happy how we managed to find the right support away from home. My husband and I always considered ourselves a team and we respect each-others' careers and whether one of us needs some time off.
However, when my first daughter was born, I was in the middle of the long editing process of my first feature film. It was the most tiring experience I ever had, very stressful and challenging. Children can draw all your energy away, while you need it all in creative jobs.
6. Are you job sharing or working flexibly?
Definitely working flexibly.
7. What do you think is the hardest part of being a working in media/film/tv industry and being a parent?
Maternity leave policy is not granted in this job, it's just as difficult to even consider having a pension! Freelance is hardly considered in Italy and culturally it is a troubled professional field. If you become a mom, you might have to plan to save up something instead of counting on government help.
8. What are your tips for any other women out there wanting to have kids and keep a career in film?
In Italy there are awesome infant care communities. However, for a woman working in film, I know the biggest concern is to be out of the flow for a while. But I suggest to any a moms-to-be to rather save the money you would spend on a childcare and invest the time with her little one, because it's a richness you'll never be able to live again.
9. Any advice for anyone about to return to work after maternity?
Once you go through pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding, you're a superhero. You created life and nourished a little creature, it's time to feel the power you own!
10. What advice did you wish someone had given you?
Don't feel guilty, don't feel you're wasting time, don't feel you're not good enough. And repeat yourself, most of these problems are not as big as we think, you'll make it.