One to Watch
Words by Elsie Williams, Bachelor of Communications student
Ambitious, charismatic, and inspiring young Rosie Leishman defies traditional university life through balancing commendable grades, a busy social life and filming for a feature film set to be released in 2023.
Born and raised in central Auckland, Leishman has grown up in a unique family of media talent. Attending Auckland Diocesan for Girls only enhanced Leishman’s talents, where she excelled in both literature and art-based subjects.
The film opportunity has not appeared out of the blue for Leishman, as she has been auditioning for roles since the age of 8. After appearing in many musicals, Shakespeare nationals and advertisements, this feature films stands as her biggest break yet.
Whilst a resident of R&R, Leishman studies a Bachelor of Communications majoring in Journalism. As she embarks on her studies at UC, her end goal entails a career in Journalism, with the addition of whatever special opportunities arise on the way.
After auditioning for the film in her R&R bedroom, Leishman has since been juggling acting, studying, and socializing.
Piki Films, an Aotearoa film and video production company, embraces the picturesque shores of Christchurch. From the production house behind NZ box office hits Jojo Rabbit, Baby Done, Hunt for the Wilderpeople and The Breaker Upperers, the film follows the friendship of three misfit teens trapped at an institution inconveniently situated on a tiny island. The school’s mission is to transform delinquents from barbarism to domestication.
With an all-female Director, Director of photography, writer and cast majority, the film embarks on an empowering journey, navigated by strong female leads. “It’s awesome to be lead by a female initiative, especially when the story is female focused too.”
Ten-hour workdays on the hills of Diamond Harbour, as well as full time study, has taught Leishman the valuable skills of balance, optimism, and a tiny bit of sacrifice.
“It has definitely been a challenge. Balancing uni and the film has proven to be a tiring process, but I always look forward to coming back home to R&R every night and being around the ones I love.
“It is the most unique and special opportunity, the perfect first film experience. Studying in Christchurch and the film being shot here, meant that I was able to engage in both. I’ve absolutely loved it, and now I’m just making the most of every beautiful moment, both at R&R, and the film.”
Leishman adds stupendous value to Rochester & Rutherford hall, as a social representative, an aspiring leader and a great friend to many. Her ambitious nature is infectious throughout the hall, a role model student to all and R&R’s personal movie star.