In 2017, Luke Hempleman achieved something that many could only dream of – he took the stage at the Globe Theatre in London.
Having been selected as part of the Young Shakespeare Company – a select team of 24 who would travel to London – Luke was able to enjoy a completely life-changing experience. All the while, he was also studying towards his journalism qualification through Ara Institute’s New Zealand Broadcasting School.
“The experience was life changing, and being on that stage was one of the best moments of my life.”
“It was a very proud moment for me. I had raised $6,000 of the $8,000 cost myself, and thanks to the Ara Foundation grant of $2,000, I didn’t have to worry about the money side of things. I was over the moon. The experience was life-changing, and being on that stage was one of the best moments of my life. The trip in general was exceptional. Being given the opportunity to work with industry professionals and improve my craft – I just can’t put it into words.”
With his feet back on home soil, Luke’s heart and mind are still set on the world stage with National Geographic in his line of sight. “My ultimate aspiration is to work with National Geographic and write for their magazines and work on their documentaries. I am really passionate about the stories they have to share and I love the art of storytelling.”
Ara Foundation provided Luke Hempleman with $2,000 so he could attend the Globe Theatre in London as part of a select group of students who were handpicked by the National School of Shakespeare Production.