When the opportunity to go on a week-long placement at Gay Times magazine in London came up, final year Sports Journalism student Danny Wearin didn’t hesitate to turn to the Futures Fund for financial help.
Danny has created an LGBT friendly sports magazine as part of his final year project and this placement allowed him to put the journalist skills that he has developed during his time at the University into practice in a sector of the industry he is so passionate about.
He explained: “Over the past three years I have been working on linking my sports knowledge and passion with my desire to bring the LGBT community and sporting world together. The LGBT magazine industry is on the rise, as the level of acceptance in modern day society continues to increase.
“I want to be part of that rise, I want to make a difference and begin building a firm bridge between the LGBT community and their representation in sport”.
During his placement, Danny contributed over 40 pieces of online content and had work published in an internationally recognised publication.
“This opportunity has enhanced my curriculum vitae, and has made me much more employable,” he said.
“I have been able to witness first-hand the ins and outs of how a successful, real-life magazine runs on a daily basis, interacting with journalists, photographers and editors and picking up essential skills and qualities needed to be a working journalist.”
The Opportunity Scholarship allowed Danny to cover the travel and accommodation expenses of his one-week placement in London.
He said: “Without the funding it would not have been possible to carry out this placement, therefore I would like to thank the Future Fund’s donors, for presenting me with such an invaluable opportunity.
“The skills I have gained from my work experience have led me onto getting a job as a Social Media and Marketing Executive.”