What if you know what you want but don't feel like the right person to do it?

Anna-Marie was introverted, had no experience, and no connections. So she bought a camera and a microphone and just started. In this activity you'll hear from a presenter who proves you don't need to be a certain 'type' to do what you're drawn to.

This activity is designed to be flexible and can be used as follows:

  • During a lesson - 35 minutes. Students work in pairs and then share their reflections with the rest of the class.
  • During tutor time - 25 minutes. Students watch the video independently and then discuss one of the topics together.
  • As homework - Students watch the video on their own and complete the reflection at their own pace.

This activity supports the following frameworks:

  • Gatsby Benchmark 5
  • PSHE Association KS3 codes H1, L9
  • PSHE Association KS4 codes H2, L5

1. Before you start

Take a moment to think about the following question:

  • Is there something you'd love to do but you don't feel like the "type" of person who does it? What makes you feel that way?

If you're working with a partner or team, share and compare your thoughts before continuing.

2. Watch the video

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Anna-Marie Descartes - DJ & Presenter

Anna-Marie is a presenter and DJ based in East London. She hosts events, creates digital content, and plays music for clients. As a child she was introverted and couldn't imagine herself on screen - but she was drawn to it anyway. She dropped out of a politics degree, bought a camera and a microphone, and just started.

While watching the video, listen for the following:

  • What did Anna-Marie originally plan to do as a career, and what made her change direction?
  • What did an English teacher recommend that Anna-Marie says changed her life?

3. Reflect and discuss

First, add a personal reflection based on the following:

  • What is one thing from Anna-Marie's story that made you think differently about the kind of person you need to be to do something?

Next, think about the following and discuss with your partner or group:

  • Anna-Marie says she was introverted as a child but drawn to presenting - "I didn't know how I could be like that but I knew that's what I wanted to do." Have you ever felt that gap between what you want and who you think you are right now? What would it take to close it?
  • Anna-Marie dropped out of university, had no experience, and just bought a camera and started interviewing people. She says "I just always led with my gut." Do you think that was brave, risky, or both? What's the difference between following your gut and being reckless?
  • Anna-Marie's advice to her younger self is "it's okay to be yourself" and "it's okay to be a little bit weird." Why do you think it can be hard to believe that when you're younger? What would help?