Makers At Heart | Creative Intern Georgia Paes on her inspirations & why no idea is “too big”

We are Makers At Heart. We create the extraordinary.

As the creative engine room of the world’s biggest brands we are driven by one purpose: to solve our client’s toughest briefs beautifully. Our Makers believe in the power of cooperation and partnership to deliver ambitious ideas to that break new ground and deliver awe-inspiring creative work.

Everything we do as a team makes great ideas come to life. We are thinkers, designers, artists, directors, producers, developers, colourists, coders, technicians, editors, animators, writers, doers and makers.

In our Makers At Heart series, we introduce the people behind the projects to hear more about their inspirations, motivations and creative insights. We spoke to Creative Intern Georgia Paes about her inspirations and why no idea is “too big”.

What most excites you about your placement at The Mill?

I’m really excited to get stuck in and collaborate with the different departments. I first came across The Mill after seeing Dua Lipa’s music video ‘Hallucinate’ and BBC’s ‘The Power of BBC Sounds‘ advert. I remember saying I want to work there. It was an awe-inspiring moment for sure. Having come from a non-VFX background, I’m so eager to learn how the conceptual and creative work that I’m doing can be brought to life by such incredible artists. No idea is too big. Even in my first couple of weeks, everyone has been so keen to talk about the work that they’re creating. It’s an exciting energy to be around. I genuinely believe that the most authentic creative work comes from embracing different lived experiences, so I’m excited to see how my vision can impact the work we’re creating.

Previously, you’ve occupied various positions in the NHS – what are some of the most valuable lessons you learned as part of such a national institution, that will help you in your new job?

The NHS is one of the most diverse organisations that you can work in. Walking in fresh from school was an eye-opener. Listening to people’s stories, struggles and triumphs was hard-hitting but inspiring. The commitment and dedication that staff give to their patients is incredible. Often, people are quick to criticise the NHS for both their lack of capacity and quality of care. Since the pandemic, however, that narrative has been flipped on its head. Even so, we still have a long way to go in terms of supporting our staff and funding services to make equitable healthcare for this country.

Creativity is all about fostering collaboration. Undoubtedly, the most valuable lesson I’ve learnt from the NHS is to listen with integrity, empathy and be open-minded. Often, ‘purposeful’ is a buzzword for marketing. I genuinely believe, however, that I can use these skills to help create impactful ideas that actively empower communities rather than serve as performative statements.

How have your experiences as part of a start-up in Valencia, and as a brand ambassador for a mentoring charity, framed your creativity in a purpose and impact-driven way?

If you have the opportunity to travel and explore new communities – take it. Living and working in Valencia pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to view my surroundings and myself from a different perspective. It’s a vulnerable yet empowering experience. I’m definitely more resilient now and mindful of different experiences and cultures that I want to give visibility to.

At the start of lockdown, youth unemployment skyrocketed. I was fortunate enough to have a mentor, but for many others that wasn’t the case. Before the Kickstart Scheme launched, I campaigned alongside One Million Mentors to call for a government-funded training programme through mentoring. I remember thinking how will anything change if I don’t speak up? We have to question and challenge systems that are supporting people from minority groups. I want other young people who face a similar experience to have a space to be nurtured and thrive. Even if no one thinks or looks like me, I want to use my creativity to show things can be done differently and change how we connect with young people for the better.

What are your biggest creative inspirations?

I was a big (ish) gamer when I was younger and I’ve always been fascinated by the worlds of beauty and fashion. These were big sources of inspiration for my recent collaborative piece for the Marketing Society, which explores trends for Gen Z in 2021.

And quite simply, people. Growing up in a South Asian community in south London, my family and friends are big sources of inspiration. Living amongst such diverse cultures and minds inspires me to find authentic ways to tell their stories and connect with a community that I care about. I was recently reminded of this when I co-created Choose Your Muse: a week-long digital festival on @livityuk showcasing talent and their lockdown creations. I love seeing a range of creative talent and understanding what makes people tick.

What is your favourite Mill BTS and why?

Coming from a non-VFX background, I love the Coors ‘Fresh Climb’ BTS because it encapsulates the art of compositing and shows how all the different layers such as colour gradients and matte painting come together. Every time I watch it, I’m still amazed at how the artists make the imagery look so authentic- like it’s captured on physical camera!

Check out more Makers At Heart features here and get in touch regarding any upcoming projects via our contact page.