
Academy 2026 Cohort
freya horley
DEGREE
Aston University | Business and Management
"Being able to be creative and get into the mind of the consumer is the reason I love marketing, and I’m determined to use my career to champion women and grow into an inspiring female leader."
About eve
What was the route that brought you to Academy by Tribera?
My passion for content stems from my love for film. My creative journey began in Nottingham, where I studied Film & TV Production and developed practical skills in content creation, visual storytelling and production. Through creating short form content, I discovered the world of advertising and marketing which inspired me to pursue a BA in Digital Marketing at Birmingham City University.
Having built a strong foundation in creative production through my earlier studies and continued to refine these skills throughout my degree, the Academy has provided me with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how an agency operates. It has been an invaluable experience, offering insight into industry practices, collaboration, and the realities of a future career in marketing.
What is it about the creative marketing world that genuinely pulls you in?
I love marketing because it is such a vast and ever changing industry, where new ideas and creative opportunities are constantly emerging. I am particularly interested in how brands capture the attention of their target audiences through carefully curated content that inspires, engages, and encourages consumers to take action. While both film and marketing are subjective forms of communication, marketing fascinates me because its success depends on its ability to resonate with people, create meaningful connections, and deliver a clear impact.
Why do you want to build your career here in Birmingham?
As a born and bred Midlander who has lived in Derby my whole life, being a part of a growing and evolving city is something I deeply value. Birmingham, as the UKs second biggest city has potential to be a true cultural and economic powerhouse outside of London. I’m excited by the city’s thriving creative scene and hope to play a small part in its continued growth by contributing fresh ideas, creativity, and meaningful work within the industry
Where do you want your career to head over the next couple of years?
Over the next few years, I hope to build my career within a creative agency or in-house marketing team where I can continue developing my skills in content creation, social media, photography, and video production. I am particularly interested in roles that allow me to be involved throughout the creative process, from research and planning to content creation and campaign execution. Working alongside experienced creatives, marketers, and strategists would give me the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and refine my skills while contributing fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Ultimately, I want to become a well-rounded marketer who creates engaging content that delivers real impact for both brands and their audiences.
What is something about you that has nothing to do with marketing?
My admiration for classic films impacts my daily style. Think film noir, french new wave, kitchen sink dramas. Every film I have watched over the years has shaped my current style. I have spent the past five years perfecting my makeup, hair styling and building an extensive wardrobe of vintage clothes and accessories. It is not a costume as some might think, I really do wear it every day. I adore 1950s Vogue magazines, my favourite model is Dovmia. Richard Averdon said: “She was the last of the great elegant aristocratic beauties… the most remarkable and unconventional beauty of her time.”. Funny Face, which Dovima stars in, is one of my favourite films, mostly because I love Paris so much. The classic style and the glamorous feeling that Paris emits, there is nothing more I love when I visit and stroll around the streets, thinking who was once walking in these same steps.
How has working with AI changed the way you think and work?
working with ai
As a creative, I have been conditioned to fear AI. The classic ‘it is going to take over our jobs’, but now I see without using it and understanding it, you are even more unlikely to succeed and thrive in the industry. AI is like seasoning; it can enhance your ideas for you to build on, and it helps the workflow, meaning you can be the most efficient version of yourself. I see how AI will help me, not to take away my creativity but to blossom it to another level.
Across strategy, social, creative, paid media, PR and analytics, where do you think you will thrive?
strengths and focus
I have always been a highly organised person. While studying Film & TV Production, I not only enjoyed the creative aspects of projects but also found myself naturally gravitating towards directorial and organisational roles. I enjoy coordinating people, managing projects, and ensuring that ideas are brought to life effectively.
Alongside my studies, I have worked as a receptionist in a barbershop for five years. This experience has strengthened my communication skills, as I enjoy talking to people, building relationships, and making others feel comfortable in new environments. Because of this, I believe starting my career within an accounts or client services role would allow me to combine my organisational strengths with my passion for creativity to gain a deeper understanding of the marketing industry .I am also keen to continue developing my experience in content and social media marketing. I have managed social media accounts for artist Paul Rothera, The Dandy Gent Barbershop, and Outer Circle Podcast for Brum Radio. This has involved creating content, planning schedules, and managing posts across platforms. Moving forward, I hope to work within a collaborative team where I can contribute to both client relationships and creative projects.
Which technical and professional skills have you sharpened during the programme?
KEY SKILLS MASTERED
Since the beginning of the Academy I have significantly improved my skills across multiple AI platforms including Gemini, Chat GPT and NotebookLM for copywriting, competitor research, audience segmentation and image generation. I can confidently use Gemini to create a gem as an aid for audience research and strategy testing. I am efficient using Meta Business Suit to manage content.
What kinds of roles and responsibilities are you now ready to take on?
ready for
I am now looking to take my first step into the industry within a creative agency or in-house marketing team. I want to join a like minded creative team that I can learn from others while also bringing a strong foundation in organisation, communication, and content creation. I would thrive in a role that allows me to apply my experience in social media management alongside my background in photography, video and visual storytelling. I feel confident in my ability to contribute within a creative team while continuing to develop my skills and build a long term career within the creative industry.