Source: Te Pukenga
An opportunity to photograph international music stars Sir Rod Stewart and Cyndi Lauper has confirmed Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga learner Ryley Wilson’s decision to focus on a creative career.
Ryley was one of only two photographers (the other was a media representative) to be given access to photograph Sir Rod Stewart and Cyndi Lauper during their concert at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, on Wednesday 5 April.
“It was amazing. I shot so many photos and am really happy with the results. Some of them have already been used by Stuff,” Ryley said the morning after the big night.
Ryley was at the show at the invitation of Dunedin Venues Management Ltd, which has employed her as an intern since the start of the year.
“I started a six-week internship with DVML at the beginning of the year and will be doing another one after the holidays,” Ryley says.
In her final year of a Bachelor of Design (Communication), Ryley has been helping DVML with marketing and graphic design, as well as, obviously, photographic duties.
“Before starting the Bachelor’s, I’d completed a NZ Diploma in Digital Media and Design, then a NZ Diploma in Photography, so it’s been great applying my broad skillset during the internship.
“And I definitely didn’t expect such amazing opportunities – I couldn’t have dreamed I’d be photographing Sir Rod Stewart and Cyndi Lauper. Those photos will definitely be going into my portfolio!”
Ryley’s tale is the latest success story to emanate from an ongoing internship placement relationship between DVML and Otago Polytechnic.
“This was an incredible experience that we were able to offer Riley and is a great example of the successful partnership between DVML and Otago Polytechnic,” says Kim Dodds, DVML Commercial Manager.
“We have been impressed with the calibre of the Otago Polytechnic learners involved in the internship programme. Several graduates have since gained fulltime employment with DVML.”
Otago Polytechnic Executive Director Jase Tibble says the relationship with DVML, established in 2018, is another example of learners being challenged, supported and empowered with skills in real-world environments.
“As well as preparing ākonga with the ability to adapt in what can be fast-moving situations, the internship relationship with DVML is another reminder of our commitment to the wider community.”
Dunedin Venues Chief Executive Terry Davies: “This partnership enables DVML to continue providing mutually beneficial intern opportunities for Otago Polytechnic students, who are exposed to all aspects of our fast-paced working environment”.
