A talented young podcaster from Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, Ethan Fletcher, has been named a Future Journalism Star in a prestigious competition organised by the University of Sunderland.
Ethan, a first-year Creative Media and Media Studies student, was nominated for the award by Creative Media Course Leader, Beccy Vickers, after showcasing his outstanding journalism skills. Having launched his own YouTube channel, Chase That Dream Podcast, at just 12 years old during the pandemic, Ethan has since evolved into an accomplished interviewer, securing conversations with high-profile figures.
His impressive list of interviewees includes TV personality Claudia Winkleman (whom he spoke to at just 12 years old), Olympic legend Steve Cram, social media influencers, Alan Carr’s Changing Ends star Oliver Savell, and even the illustrator behind The Great British Bake Off.
Ethan’s attention of the University of Sunderland’s journalism team, who were deeply impressed by his engaging approach. Neil Macfarlane, Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Journalism, and Neil Farrington, Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Sports Journalism, praised Ethan’s work, stating:
“A series of extremely engaging podcasts underline the importance of relaxed presenting and interviewing skills, a lively and confident presenting technique, and a sense of spontaneity and fun within a soundly structured editorial framework.”
As a winner, Ethan will receive a £150 prize and an invitation to attend the University’s MediaHUB Experience Day this summer, where he will have the opportunity to experience life in a real newsroom.
Beccy Vickers, Creative Media Course Leader, commented: “Ethan really has shown he has a true talent for Broadcast Journalism. His talent seems to be endless, and I know from his enthusiasm and dedication that he will succeed in this industry and thrive as a TV presenter, which is his ultimate dream.”
Beyond his podcasting success, Ethan has demonstrated his creative talents in video production. As part of his Advertising Campaign project, he produced a professional promotional video for the Darlington CAMHS team, which received high praise. Impressed by his work, the hospital has invited him back to create a new video for their Mental Health team, which will be shown in school assemblies.
In addition to his achievements, Ethan has fully embraced every enrichment opportunity available this year, including workshops with BBC journalists, Northern Echo reporters, and graphic designers. He is also an active member of the QE Journalism and Drama Group, further honing his skills in the creative industry.
With such a promising start in media and journalism, Ethan’s future in the industry looks incredibly bright.
To listen to Ethan’s interviews, visit his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ChaseThatDreamPodcast/videos
