ROSS MCCLEAN

CLASS OF 2010

Documentary Filmmaker

Since leaving Belfast High School, I have been fortunate to study, live and work both at home, and abroad. My career as a documentary filmmaker has allowed me to be creative and inquisitive about the world around me, connecting with diverse individuals and delving into other perspectives.

My films have screened in over 50 local and international film festivals. Hydebank (2019) premiered at DokLeipzig, IDFA, Hot Docs and won Best Short Documentary at Galway, London Short, Spektrum, Docs Ireland and Leeds. My latest short film, Echo (2023), premiered at IDFA, True/False, Sheffield DocFest and Camerimage.

I am currently in production on my first feature-length documentary supported by BFI DocSociety, Arte, Screen Ireland and IDFA Project Space, among others.

It hasn’t always been plain sailing. I've faced moments of self-doubt and uncertainty about the path I was on; but for the most part the ability to be creative, and share stories in my own way that I believe matter, and that resonate with others, makes the struggles worthwhile.

Whether it was winning or losing rugby matches, struggling to identify what career I should follow or simply being a nuisance for the first 5 years of my studies; I now realise I learned lessons at BHS beyond just academics.

I felt a shift and a sense of purpose when I came across Young Enterprise and Business Studies in 6th year. This newfound duty of responsibility gave me the nudge I needed to buck my ideas up, and sparked a genuine feeling of passion towards something I was involved in. The education, diligence and creativity required during this period continues to serve me to this day.

If I could share a message with prospective students and parents, it would be to look for opportunities in unconventional places, and be open minded that your future path might not be what you initially predict.