The team behind The Advent, St Aidan's student-led literary journal, recently had the privilege of welcoming alumna Imogen McCluskey back to school for an inspiring seminar exploring creativity, storytelling and careers in the screen industry.

Named one of Inside Film's Rising Stars, Imogen is an award-winning filmmaker, writer and director whose work spans feature films, television, music videos and digital content. Her credits include the acclaimed feature films Suburban Wildlife and Nugget Is Dead, as well as directing ABC's Soundtrack to Our Teenage Zombie Apocalypse. Her work has earned recognition both in Australia and internationally, demonstrating the impact of creativity, persistence and a willingness to pursue ambitious goals. You can see more of her work here;  [imogenmccluskey.com], [imdb.com]

Throughout the evening, students engaged in a lively discussion with Imogen, asking thoughtful questions about her journey from aspiring storyteller to professional filmmaker. Topics ranged from adapting books for the screen and the creative process behind bringing ideas to life, to navigating challenges within the film industry and building a sustainable creative career.

Members of The Advent Management Committee were captivated by Imogen's openness, insight and enthusiasm. Her reflections on perseverance, creativity and embracing opportunities resonated strongly with students who are already developing their own voices as writers, illustrators and editors through the school's literary journal.

Tempest, Editor-in-Chief of The Advent, described the experience as both memorable and motivating.

"Imogen was absolutely fantasmagorical; bright, engaging and inspiring. She showed us just how far creativity, determination and a dream can take you. Her passion for storytelling and willingness to share her experiences encouraged all of us to think more boldly about our own creative futures."

Students were particularly inspired by Imogen's honest discussion about the realities of working in a creative industry, including the challenges she has overcome and the opportunities that have emerged through hard work, collaboration and resilience. Her story offered a powerful reminder that creative pursuits can lead to remarkable and rewarding careers.

The seminar also highlighted the value of connection between current students and alumni. By sharing her professional experiences and mentoring emerging young creatives, Imogen provided invaluable encouragement to students as they continue to develop The Advent and pursue their own artistic ambitions.

The Advent team extends its sincere thanks to Imogen for her generosity, wisdom and continued support of the St Aidan's community. Her visit was a powerful example of the impact alumnae can have in inspiring future generations, and a reminder that the creative journeys begun at St Aidan's can lead to extraordinary places.

We are incredibly grateful to have alumni such as Imogen mentoring and encouraging our students as they take their writing, illustrating, storytelling and creativity into the wider world.