In conversation with Zeb Achonu
Zeb and her gang
1. Introduce yourself
My name is Zeb Achonu, and I am a London based freelance film and TV editor, and mum of 3 wild children.
2. What is your job title?
Film and TV Editor
3. Who looks after the kids when you are working?
Its a mixture of school, nursery (paid for the 1 year old, 30 free hours for the 3 year old), their Papa and my Mum... with the recent addition of an occasional paid pick up and an occasional emergency childminder morning drop off. It's chaotic as my partner is also freelance in the film industry.
4. How long did you take off work after having your baby?
3/6 months with No.1 (I went back at 3 months, changed my mind after 2 days and put myself back on Mat leave), 6 months with No.2 and sort of 6 months with No.3... except I was having meetings, delivering seminars with her attached to me and doing the odd bit of editing from home from about 2 months in.
5. Would you say that you have a good work/life balance?
Absolutely not!
6. Are you job sharing or working flexibly?
Not at the moment, but have done and am aiming to again. It can be hard to find a company that gets it, but when they do it's great.
7. What do you think is the hardest part of being a working in media/film/tv industry and being a parent?
The hours and the uncertainty. The socialising, or not being able to so you feel like you're missing opportunities. The cost and inflexibilty of childcare.
8. What are your tips for any other women out there wanting to have kids and keep a career in film?
It's not easy, but what is in this industry? You have to get on top of your organising game, even though much of that organising is last minute. It is totally possible and apparently it does get easier as they get bigger. Try to retain your friends and networks in the industry, even if actually seeing people in person is too much, all those connections really help with finding work and knowing what's going on. Organisations such as WFTV, Raising Films and CineMamas are great for keeping you connected and making new friends.
9. Any advice for anyone about to return to work after maternity?
Remember to ask for what you need. If you can't work crazy hours because of your family, be honest, many will thank you for it and if they don't accept it, it's probably not a production you want to work with.
If you need time and space to express milk, find someone and tell them. Had I known that first time around I wouldn't have wasted so many lunchtimes hiding in toilets pumping as quietly as I could. With baby number two I went to work at ITV, told a lady on reception and she immediately sorted out access to a private room with a velvet sofa for me to use whenever necessary. With baby number three I discovered BBC Elstree has a dedicated nursing mothers' room, with a fridge for storing milk!
Also, on maternity allowance, you get to have up to 10 "keeping in touch" days, where you can work and get paid and not lose payments. If you go back to work for a few weeks you can pause your maternity allowance and then reinstate it if you stop working before your time is up.
10. What advice did you wish someone had given you?
Don't rush back. 6 months, a year, its not really that long if you keep up with your networks. There are loads of parents, carers and other people who don't want to give their entire life to the job and will work sensibly so you can all leave at a decent hour! Your kid(s) will eventually realise how cool you are working in the film/tv industry and respect you for doing what you love. So will some of the parents/ teachers at school, even if you hardly ever get to do drop off or pick ups.
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