This month, we get to know Destiny Lawrence, CoSTAR Technican in Advanced Production, and Royal Holloway alumna. Find out more about Destiny, her new role within the CoSTAR project and how she likes to spend her free time outside of work.
1.) Please tell us more about yourself and your new role
I was a student here at Royal Holloway University and completed my BA in 2022 in Digital Media Culture and Technology. During my third year, I took on a role as a Student Ambassador at StoryFutures, were I had the opportunity to work on exciting projects such as StoryTrails. This allowed me to travel across the UK to various libraries and showcase VR storytelling. Some of those libraries are still showcasing the VR, and I have continued to support them since then.
After that, I moved into a new role as a Junior Technician and showcasing Co-ord. One of the projects I worked on was Xperience which was a dedicated VR distribution programme that partnered with independent cinema venues and arts centres to create innovative opportunities for audiences across the UK.
I am now working in my new position as a CoStar Technician (Advanced Production). In this role, I manage equipment, support operations in the new Futures Studio, and assist with setting up a new studio in Pinewood.
2.) What do you enjoy most about working in the StoryFutures team at Royal Holloway?
What I enjoy most is working on innovative and exciting projects, as well as collaborating with a diverse range of people from different backgrounds. I also enjoy working with communities, such as our library partners to teach and showcase technologies like VR and 3D scanning.
3.) What are you enjoying most in your new role so far?
So far, I am enjoying exploring and experimenting with the technology in the Futures Studio, including the VP wall and lighting.
4.) What are you working on in the next six months?
In the next six months, I will continue supporting the setup and running of projects in the Futures Studio, as well as assisting with the setup of the new studio in Pinewood.
5.) What or who inspires you inside and/or outside of work?
My mum is my biggest inspiration. She is an amazing, hardworking, and supportive person who is always there for me, and I am incredibly thankful to have her.
6.) How do you like to spend your free time outside of work?
In my free time, I enjoy cooking, baking, and trying out new recipes. I also love photography and spending time with friends.