Finding a program that will allow you to pursue the creative and impact-driven career you want is something that UQ’s School of Communication and Arts can help you achieve. From journalism, to screenwriting, to literature – the possibilities are waiting for you. This is true for two UQ alumni – Kirsten Slemint and Derek Yang who have both turned their UQ studies and passion for film making into extraordinary careers.
Kirsten Slemint — Scientist, Journalist, Film maker
UQ alum Kirsten Slemint studied Bachelors of Science/Journalism and graduated in 2019. Her work as a film maker explores the intersections between people and nature, and is driven by social impact outcomes.
Throughout her UQ studies she was awarded a New Colombo Plan scholarship to travel to India, where she produced a short documentary on ubrbanisation. This was just the beginning of her film making journey.
After finishing her UQ studies, she was accepted into the highly prestigious Master of Arts (Directing and Producing Science and Natural History) at the National Film and Television School (NFTS) in the United Kingdom – one of only 12 candidates worldwide and the first Australian ever.
Her recent film Burnt Country is a powerful testament to her talent, it’s been nominated at the BAFTAs, the Grierson Awards, and the Oscars.
Burnt Country explores Indigenous practices of cultural burning in Australia, against the devasting backdrop of bushfires and climate change.
Throughout her time in the industry, she has also worked with clients such as National Geographic, American Wild Horse Conservation and Protect the Arctic.
Her work has also seen her win the Sony Future Filmmaker Sustainability Prize and will be included in a UN Foundation showcase later in 2025.
There is no doubt that Kirsten’s work demonstrates how storytelling and impact-driven film making can change how we see our world.
Derek Yang — Creativity to Streaming Success
UQ alum Derek Yang who studied Bachelors of Arts/Education (Secondary) says his English Major at UQ helped to shape his passion for screenwriting.
“Studying English at UQ was partially inspired by how Christopher Nolan undertook literature during his time at UCL. I knew this would be just as instrumental as watching endless films, and it continued to shape my passion for writing.”
During the pandemic, he wrote and directed his debut feature-length rom‑com, The Wing Girl, using borrowed camera gear, UQ’s TV studio, and green‑screen tech — supported throughout by the School of Communication and Arts Media Production and Studies team.
This hard work resulted in The Wing Girl being released on Amazon Prime Video, a rare achievement for a new filmmaker. It also screened at ten international film festivals (including Oslo’s) and picked up Best Comedy at the Clown International Film Festival in Paris.
Today, Derek teaches at Marsden State High School, whilst continuing his creative journey. His new drama Violet just premiered in June.
“At the end of the day… I’m simply chasing the same impulse I get when experiencing something awe-inspiring,” Derek reflects.
His story shows how a UQ Arts program can help to open doors across multiple creative fields.
The School would like to congratulate both Kirsten and Derek, and look forward to seeing what films they produce next.
