With more than 4000 YouTube subscribers, a promising career at Channel Nine and his own production business, SAE University College film grad and Michael Jackson performer Hayden Huynh has the world at his feet.
At just 23, he has an impressive portfolio of works – including several film credits, film festival selections and an SBS screening of one of his own documentaries – but Hayden says he is still learning every day.
“I’ve always been creating my own content across multiple platforms, and I’ve been at Channel Nine for more than two and a half years now, but I am definitely still learning,” Hayden says.
While many creative media graduates aspire to run their own business, Hayden says there is much to be gained in post-education industry employment, including developing new skills, using emerging technology, receiving mentorship, building connections – and earning a steady income!
After graduating from SAE with a Bachelor of Film in 2020 Hayden joined Nine the following year as a promotions production assistant.
Now a promotions producer, his role sees him collaborating with diverse contributors to create and edit a full suite of television promos – from TV shows to movies, news and sport.
“You’d be surprised how much goes into the promos you’re watching,” Hayden says.
“Although it’s only a 60-second spot on air, it probably took at least 20 people and several processes to make it to broadcast TV.”
Hayden says he applies many of the lessons he’s learned at SAE and at Nine to his own productions on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, where he is on his way to influencer status, a role he’s worked hard for.
“I’ve always been into acting and creating, and my side hustle is a Michael Jackson performer. I would love to keep doing it all but I’ve got to find the right balance,” he said.
“I’m still young to the game and, for now, I need to get some more experience and raise more capital before I can even think of going into full-blown freelance work.”
“I’m excited to see what my future holds.”
