This week, we are so pleased to welcome Sharmila Lella (she/her) as our Alumni Engagement Officer!

We have an incredible history of giving underrepresented filmmakers their all important first step into the film, some of which have gone on to work on major productions, including writer director Raisah Ahmed, producer Ciara Barry, production designer Jamie Lapsley, and Oscar-nominated production sound mixer, Stuart Wilson. With the help of the University of Glasgow’s Find a Solution internship programme we found Sharmila, who for the next 8 weeks, is taking the lead on re-connecting GMAC with our alumni spanning 40 years!

Sharmila’s passion for film fuels her work at GMAC as our Alumni Engagement Officer. By curating engaging programs that reconnect alumni and nurture lifelong engagement, Sharmila works to develop and sustain a thriving alumni community. Her past experience documenting unheard voices is a key motivator in championing marginalised narratives at GMAC, too.

Beyond her role, She is a film enthusiast with a soft spot for South Indian Cinema. She constantly explores ways to bridge the gap between this rich heritage and a wider audience, fostering global appreciation for its brilliance.

Outside of GMAC, you might find her lost in the world of watercolours, capturing emotions with a splash of colour, or swooning over the melodies of Indian classical music. She believes in mindfulness and positivity.

Favourite film: Mayabazar (1957)