J. Dan Michaels Staying afloat financially during a global pandemic has been hard enough. Those of us that have been fortunate to keep working have often done so out of necessity, and if we’re happy, it’s a bigger bonus than any monetary gains. While the security of steady work is a comfort, indeed, what if you need to switch careers during this bizarre era? How about starting a business? There are many reasons for these actions and infinite scenarios due to an individual’s unique circumstances. Let’s take a look at some of those folks that have done just that.
Jimmy Frost, 36, Toronto, ON
Jimmy Frost is a married gentleman and father of three. He’s kept busy through the years with steady work and involvement in the arts via various film and seasonal projects. Throughout 2020, he was employed with a Toronto moving company. It was around November that he had stopped receiving the amount of shifts needed to support his family. Acting on a referral from a friend, Jimmy took a chance and called the manager of a local film support crew. Immediately, he found himself working on their Location Support Personnel. Even though the pandemic has brought many productions to a standstill, he is confident that the work he enjoys will resume soon enough.
As optimistic as he is with his current employment, Jimmy is looking towards a future within the film industry’s electric department which would see him attending college for additional credentials. Although he’s not in school at the moment, he is very much dedicated to his children’s own homeschooling and keeps the kids active in lieu of a school run phys-ed program. His personal interest in the arts has led him to be an active guitar player, a passion he’s had for many years. Listening to albums by David Bowie, Prince, Soundgarden, Tom Petty, and others have been getting him through the often mundane lockdown living.
As for taking a chance at a new job, Jimmy has refreshingly optimistic advice to offer. “Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get any calls right away. It’s a global situation, but there is light. Stay motivated.” Lastly, he recommends that anyone interested should check out the Helie Film Support website at heliefilmsupport.com for further information on jobs within the industry.
Congratulations, JImmy! Onwards and upwards!
Congrats Jimmy! Love hearing this positive stories, now more than ever!