In this episode, filmmaker Nifty Noel shares how creating his own opportunities helped him make the leap from writer to director. We discuss the importance of putting yourself out there, building meaningful relationships, and why being kind to everyone you meet can open unexpected doors.

Noel also gives an inside look at the UK film and television industry, explaining the roles of producers and commissioners, and how learning from every stage of production shaped his understanding of filmmaking.

We dive into the making of his independent short film, Driving Mercedes, a project he created to showcase his directing abilities rather than waiting for permission. Since recording this episode, the film has been released and has received exceptional praise on TikTok.

The conversation also explores the power of collaboration, with Noel sharing how he encouraged actors to improvise, welcomed creative contributions, and gave a first-time writer the opportunity to develop the film's first draft.

If you're an aspiring filmmaker, creative or anyone looking to build a career on your own terms, this episode is full of practical insights on taking initiative, embracing collaboration, and creating opportunities for yourself.

In this episode of Duvet Diaries, I'm joined by Kiara Ama Jade, a model and multidisciplinary artist whose creative journey spans modelling, spatial design, branding, content creation, and art.

We discuss her path into modelling, learning to become comfortable in front of the camera, and how studying Design for Branded Spaces helped her develop the skills to bring creative ideas to life from start to finish. Kiara reflects on embracing multiple creative identities, reconnecting with her artistic practice, and her desire to create larger-scale experiences and spaces that inspire transformation.

A thoughtful conversation about creativity, evolution, and finding your way right back to what you love.

In this episode of Duvet Diaries, I’m joined by Kyra Flame, a creative whose journey spans music, podcasting, presenting, events, fashion, and the arts.

We talk about embracing multiple creative passions, trying new things, and learning to move through fear instead of letting it hold you back. Kyra reflects on how creativity doesn’t have to fit into one path or identity, and why doing things scared can often lead to growth, confidence, and unexpected opportunities.

This episode is a gentle reminder that creativity can exist in many forms and you don’t have to limit yourself to just one.

In this episode of Duvet Diaries, I’m joined by Daisy, a creative producer working across photography, music videos, and media.

We talk about what it means to be a more quiet or behind-the-scenes creative, and why creativity doesn’t have to look one specific way. Daisy shares her journey across multiple creative disciplines, her enjoyment of learning new skills, and the process of bringing ideas to life from start to finish.

Daisy also opens up about her experience of stepping in front of the camera for this conversation, something outside of her usual comfort zone as someone who prefers working behind the scenes. We reflect on how, in certain moments, gently pushing through discomfort or anxiety can lead to positive experiences and outcomes that feel far less daunting in hindsight.

This episode is a reminder that creativity exists in many forms, and that you don’t have to be seen to be creative.

In this episode of Duvet Diaries, I’m joined by Ife Ogunjobi, trumpet player in Ezra Collective, to explore the joy of making music, performing, and staying present in the moment.

We talk about Ife's love for jazz, afrobeats and music more broadly, and how he and his bandmates create an atmosphere of energy, freedom, and connection in their live performances.

Ife also shares insights into creating music with Wizkid, and his admiration for Wizkid’s ability to make timeless music that continues to shape culture. This leads into a wider conversation about artistry, intention, and what it means to create work that lasts.

At its core, this episode is about joy, creativity, and presence through music.

Stay connected with us: @theduvetdiaries @elizabethewriter @ifeogunjobi

In this episode of Duvet Diaries, I’m joined by Lisa Patz, a talented graphic designer, art director, and content creator, as we explore the journey of creating content authentically, finding your voice, and building meaningful connections.

Lisa shares her personal story of finally starting her YouTube channel after years of watching, discovering how creating for herself allowed her to express her authentic self. We also discuss the importance of representation and community, from projects with ethnic minorities to how visibility and role models can shape creative confidence. Lisa reflects on societal shifts, like the impact of Fenty Beauty, and how pointing out unseen issues can inspire real change, insights that shaped her dissertation.

This episode is perfect for creators who want to embrace their voice, create authentically, and connect deeply with their audience.

Follow Lisa and join the Duvet Diaries community:

@lisapatz_

@theduvetdiaries

In this episode of Duvet Diaries, I’m joined by Sarah Louise, a model, published poet, entrepreneur, and content creator who proves that you don’t have to limit yourself to one path.

We talk about confidence, entrepreneurship, and the “CEO of the girls” mindset, touching on Sarah’s belief that if she wants to achieve something, she’ll find a way to make it happen. She also reflects on her upbringing and how the confidence her mum instilled in her growing up helped shape the woman she is today.

We also discuss Eurocentric beauty standards, and what it means for Sarah to exist in the modelling industry as a darker-skinned, curvier woman choosing to fully own her look and identity.

A conversation about confidence, self-belief, and creating your own path.

Follow along:

@theduvetdiaries @elizabethewriter

@itssarahlouuise

In this week’s episode of Duvet Diaries, I’m joined by Ngozi, a model who shares her honest experience of working in the modelling industry, how she got started, what she learned, and what it really feels like to build an identity in front of the camera.

We talk about the highs, the opportunities, and the quieter challenges that don’t always get spoken about. The pressure, the confidence shifts, and the moments of growth that shaped her.

As our conversation unfolds, we explore what it means to outgrow something you once dreamed of and how she eventually pivoted into event videography and photography, moving behind the lens and building a new creative path for herself.

This episode is fun, reflective, and filled with gentle reminders that you’re allowed to evolve. You’re allowed to change direction. And you’re allowed to build something that feels more aligned with who you’re becoming.

Thank you for being part of this safe space for real and authentic conversations 🤍

In Episode 2 of Duvet Diaries, I’m joined by Kwaane to talk about his journey into skating, the strength of the skating community, and how the scene grew after lockdown.

We explore third spaces, creativity within skate culture, and how photography, videography, and content creation play a role in documenting the movement.

A conversation about community, growth, and the spaces that shape us.

Follow along: @theduvetdiaries @Kwaane

Welcome to Episode 1 of Duvet Diaries!

I'm chatting with Moyo from Goaldiggers, a black led women's podcast about football. We explore her journey into sport, her love for the game, the career opportunities that this led to, how football and politics can intersect, and her experience at the Qatar World Cup.

Duvet Diaries is a cosy safe space for real, authentic conversations about life and the journeys that shape us along the way.

Thank you for listening and being part of it!

Connect with us on Instagram:

@theduvetdiaries

@goaldiggersuk_

@moyoslaboratory

@elizabethewriter