Main content

Profile: Saph Holden

Saph worked with director Matt Maude to describe her experiences as a teenager in a film from the Writing Britain series.

Why did you pick this subject for Fresh?

The main motivation was my big sister and knowing I was doing this for her drove me harder and made me more determined than ever to make her proud

I picked this subject because I wanted to tell my story about struggling to cope with my big sister's death and how I got through it. I also wanted to make other people understand that you’re not alone. You may have to go out of your own way to find someone to talk to but it will be the best decision you’ll probably ever make.

What motivated you to make this film?

The motivation for this film was the struggle I went through when I was younger, how I channelled the emotions I was harbouring, and how I got through it. The main motivation was my big sister and knowing I was doing this for her drove me harder and made me more determined than ever to make her proud.

Who/what inspires you?

The person that inspires me the most is Matthew Maude, the director, and Jamie Hutchison, the producer. They just never gave up on me and if there was something I didn’t want to do or something I couldn’t complete they would constantly nag at me to do it or they’d stand beside me till I did it!

A lot of people inspire me though. Because of the struggle I’ve been through, I look to everyone for inspiration because inspiration is what I count on. I didn’t get any through school but when I left I have been to so many awesome places and met awesome people and got their life stories of how they became who they are and that’s what inspires me - hearing their struggle.

What are your plans for the future?

My plans for the future are to keep on writing my music and to write some scripts or films to direct myself. I’m also at Music College on a level 2 course so I’m also hoping to get on the level 3 then hopefully do the degree to obtain a BA.

What is the most important thing you have learned so far?

For me, doing this project has allowed me to understand why you shouldn’t say "No" or "I’ll think about it" at opportunities you may be offered because you don’t know where they can take you.

Watch: Writing Britain: Saph Holden on Fresh

Sorry, this clip is not currently available

Writing Britain: Saph Holden

Saph describes how grief impacted on her as a teenager in this powerful short film.

Related links