We ask Animated Women UK Scotland what motivated them to start a local chapter
Animated Women UK now have a local group in Scotland thanks to the enthusiasm of local volunteers. We caught up with Sueann Rochester to find out why they wanted to start a Scottish chapter and what its been like getting to this point.
How did you first hear about Animated Women UK?
I’m not 100% now, but I think I must have read something about an event happening in London and I looked into it further.
When did you start thinking seriously about trying to start up a local chapter?
I started thinking about it seriously after catching up with Beth Parker during Annecy 2018. She was so enthusiastic and I thought there would be a huge benefit to Scotland if we had a local offering.
What are you hoping to achieve?
I think the biggest thing for us is to create a stronger sense of community. We are a growing Industry so the group will be there to nurture talent, share ideas and to look out for each other.
How did you find your volunteers?
I started a private facebook group and asked for people to add anyone they thought might be interested. I wasn’t sure how much enthusiasm there would be, but I knew that I would need some support to make it work. I arranged a meeting at Axis Studios in Glasgow and was completely blown away when 18 fabulous ladies turned up all eager to be involved. That was in November. It’s taken us 6 months to get organised but we are so excited to launch next month!
How is it going so far?
We’ve not even launched yet, but I think we’re already building a strong community.
The meetings to discuss setting up have brought so many people together that wouldn’t have met before – or not very often. Everyone is chipping in time and skills to get things up and running and there is such a fantastic energy. I feel honoured to be working alongside so many brilliant ladies to set this up. We’re going to have a great year of events to look forward to!
What would you say to someone in another part of the UK thinking about doing this?
Do it! I procrastinated for a few months wondering whether it would be worth the effort, but despite not having launched yet, it’s already been worth it for me.
My biggest tip is to gather a group of keen people to help. It’s a lot of work for one person but sharing it as a team has made it fun. We know work can take over at times so each task is shared by 2 or more people so that we can allow for times when we’re too busy.