West Australian Noongar and Yamatji man Isaac Penny was the inaugural recipient of Future Frames, an initiative supporting career pathways for emerging First Nations film and video editors.
Run by SBS, endorsed by Adobe & the ASE, Future Frames was developed to create practical pathways for under-represented talent by delivering hands-on training, expanding access to industry technology and networks, and supporting long-term career development. The program was spearheaded by Kamilaroi editor John Schmidt.
Isaac joined SBS’s Technology division for an intensive three week development program in Sydney last June-July and had the opportunity to build his craft working alongside SBS and National Indigenous Television (NITV) editors on programs including SBS World News, NITV News: Nula and the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
John Schmidt talks with Isaac about his experience.
Q. What first drew you to video editing, and what stories are you passionate about telling?
What drew me to video editing was social media. There were so many ways to tell different stories. Since I was not the best writer, I knew that I would have much more fun telling stories through video.
The stories I am passionate about are ones that tell positive stories. I find these stories interesting because they can inspire people and show a different perspective.
Q. What motivated you to apply for Future Frames, and what were you hoping to get out of the experience?
I was first motivated to apply for Future Frames because it seemed like an interesting opportunity. After talking more about it with friends, family and colleagues, I gained their support, which motivated me even more.
When I applied for Future Frames, I was mainly hoping to gain new skills, meet new people, and gain experience in what it’s like to work in a place like SBS.
Q. Which was your favourite department or show at SBS & NITV to work on?
I didn’t really have a favourite department; they were all great to be a part of. I learned a lot from each of them, and I enjoyed myself in each one.
Q. During your three weeks at SBS, what was the most valuable lesson or experience you took away?
I learnt that I should not rush my time. SBS was filled with all different departments and people who did different things. It showed me that I should take my time because even though I may be interested in one thing, another opportunity may come along.
Q. How are you hoping to implement those lessons or experiences in your next gig?
I’d like to take the experience I gained from Future Frames into my next gig to help me decide what I want to do when it comes to my career.
Q. What advice would you give to any future candidates wanting to apply for Future Frames?
Future Frames aren’t looking for people with perfect resumes; they are looking for people who are willing to learn, people who are committed, and people who stand out. Show your commitment and show how much you stand out from the rest by letting your creativity run wild.
Q. Do you have any particular genres of editing you would like to pursue?
I would most likely want to pursue documentary editing. I find it appealing because documentaries tell real-life stories that are turned into interesting narratives.
Q. Is there a particular part of the editing process that you enjoy the most?
My favourite part of editing is when I’m cutting the videos and stitching them all together. I find it pretty satisfying when I’m already imagining how it might look in my head before I even open Premiere.