A lucky student from Birmingham's top creative, digital and performing arts academy has landed the opportunity of a lifetime; lighting the stage at the star-studded BRIT Awards ceremony.
Devante Benjamin, 17, from Birmingham fought off tough competition to join two students from London's BRIT school to work alongside some of the best in the business; preparing, installing, operating and de-rigging lighting equipment at the high profile event hosted by James Corden at London's 02 Arena next month.
Currently in Year 13 studying Production Arts at Birmingham Ormiston Academy (BOA), Devante has already had the chance to work on a number of high profile events including the Olympic and Paralympic opening ceremonies.
He said: "I've been lucky enough to get the opportunity to work on a lot of really exciting projects during my time at BOA, but this will be the biggest by far. I'm really looking forward to gaining knowledge and experience that I can put to use in the future."
The exciting opportunity is being offered by Production Resource Group (PRG); one of the world's leading suppliers of entertainment and event technology, and the official lighting crew for the televised event which will take place Wednesday 20 February.
Martin Locket, Chief Executive at PRG said: "Working at the BRIT Awards will give Devante the chance to join a professional crew and take a hands on role at a live event.
"It won't be all fun and games; the students will complete an extensive two week training programme at PRG's warehouse and London's 02, before putting the skills they have learned to the test during the main show."
Gaynor Cheshire, Principal at BOA, added: "This is a brilliant opportunity for Devante. He is an extremely talented student who is passionate about what he does, and this opportunity can only help to further his desire to go far in the lighting industry. I'm looking forward to watching him light up the stage in front of the nation."
The Birmingham Ormiston Academy is open to students aged 14-18 who are looking to pursue careers in performing, digital and creative industries. The independent, state-funded academy is sponsored by Ormiston Trust and Birmingham City University, and is partnered with Maverick TV.
