Daniel Smith

• FLIC Project Manager*

Daniel joined First Light in May 2009 as a Programme Manager. In this role, he has been responsible for the management and delivery of First Light’s funding schemes; the Young Film Fund and Mediabox. Both schemes focus on youth leadership in creative media projects and provide opportunities for young people to engage in positive activity whilst gaining new creative and technical media skills.

Daniel has developed and launched First Light’s new social enterprise scheme, First Light in the Classroom. This scheme provides schools with an opportunity to bring film and media professionals into the classroom. Using practical workshops in film, TV, games or interactive platforms, the scheme enhances curriculum based teaching, develops creative learning and helps to improve motivation, behaviour and attainment.

Before working at First Light, Daniel worked as a Grants Officer for the Big Lottery Fund, the largest distributor of lottery funding in the UK. Daniel has also volunteered as a youth mentor, supporting young people to create their own issue based projects. Daniel also gained a Masters in Religious Education and a degree in Religious Studies.

What is your favourite film?

The Dark Crystal

What is your favourite First Light film?

I have two- Pirate and the Mermaid and Happy Cloud

Who would play you in a film of your life?

Andy Peters

Who would you invite to a dream dinner party?

Louis Theroux, Alison Steadman, J.K. Rowling, David LaChapelle and Friedrich Nietzsche

What is your favourite film quote?

Donnie: Why do you wear that stupid bunny suit?
Frank: Why are you wear that stupid man suit?

(Donnie Darko)

E-mail: dan@firstlightonline.co.uk