Roxy Francis never expected to carve out a career in the gaming industry. In fact, when she first discovered her love for filmmaking, the thought of working in video games hadn’t even crossed her mind. But life, as she learned, has a way of taking unexpected turns—and for her, those turns were made possible by the support, mentorship, and encouragement she found at The Offshoot Foundation.
As one of the earliest participants in Offshoot Films’ young filmmakers’ workshops, Roxy’s story is one of talent nurtured, confidence built, and doors opened. From a teenager dabbling in media studies to a leader in a male-dominated industry, her trajectory is proof of the lasting impact that creative opportunities can have on young lives.
But behind her success is more than just talent and hard work. There’s also Paul Press, the founder of The Offshoot Foundation, whose guidance and belief in her abilities helped shape the path she took.
“Paul was probably my biggest supporter at that time, If it wasn’t for that support, I don’t know what I’d be doing now.”
Finding Direction Through Film
Roxy’s introduction to filmmaking came through her media studies GCSE. She enjoyed the subject but wasn’t sure what direction to take—until a teacher recommended the young filmmakers’ workshops run by Offshoot.
“I think it was a Saturday morning thing,” she remembers. “It was suggested as something extra to do outside of school, and I thought, ‘Yeah, why not?’”
That “why not?” quickly became a passion. Offshoot gave her the chance to make films. The workshops provided hands-on experience, teamwork, and the creative freedom to explore different roles within film production.
It didn’t take long for her to realise which part of the process she was drawn to the most. “Editing was what I really loved,” she says. “That’s where I felt like I was actually crafting a story.”
More Than Just Workshops—Real Industry Experience
Roxy didn’t just attend the workshops; she threw herself into every opportunity that came her way.
As she moved into A-levels, Paul recognised her dedication and took her under his wing, offering her work experience. “I’d go to Paul’s one day a week after classes, helping edit videos and put things together for clients,” she says. “That was my first real experience of working in the industry.”
Unlike many young people just starting out, Roxy wasn’t just learning theory—she was applying her skills in real-world settings. Some days she’d be cutting together footage from community projects, other days she’d be working on content for local clients.
It wasn’t just about editing. Paul helped her in ways she didn’t even realise she needed. “He helped me put together my showreel for university, lent me his camera so I could create a photography portfolio, and even guided me through the application process. He really encouraged me.”
That encouragement made all the difference. With her portfolio in hand, she was accepted into the University for the Creative Arts in Farnham to study Film Production.
A Degree, A Scholarship, and A Career Kickstart
At university, Roxy thrived. She experienced different aspects of filmmaking but remained focused on editing fairly early on. The training took Roxy back to basics—she didn’t just learn to cut digital footage but also worked with 16mm film, manually splicing reels together. “That experience really taught me to carefully consider where to make a cut and why – because once you cut film, you have to tape it back together and the more cuts you make the more you damage your reel.
Her talent didn’t go unnoticed. She received an Avid scholarship recognising her potential in editing, and her graduate film went on to win Best Film at the Screen Test Student Film Festival. It even played at the BFI, a moment that felt surreal to her.
Breaking Into the Industry—One Step at a Time
Like many graduates, Roxy faced the daunting task of finding work. Unlike many, she had practical experience and a strong work ethic—qualities that landed her a job in corporate video.
She started as a production assistant, gradually working her way up to chief editor and producer. The role involved everything from shooting international projects to overseeing high-profile edits. “I never thought I’d be flying off for shoots in Milan or Texas, but that was my life for a while!” she recalls.
It was fast-paced, demanding, and at times exhausting, but it gave her an invaluable skill set—one that would prove essential when she made the move into a completely different industry: video games.
Into the Gaming World—And Leading the Way
Today, Roxy works for Dovetail Games, where she has held several leadership roles, including Head of Creative and Head of Release Planning & Operations. Her current role involves working with major platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, and Epic Games, ensuring game releases run smoothly.
After initially applying for a video editor position, the team at Dovetail recognised that her skillset and experience were better suited for a more senior role. As a result, they offered a fixed-term contract to cover the current Head of Creative Services’ maternity leave. When that contract ended, she was fortunate enough to be made a permanent member of the team and has since had the opportunity to work in roles across the business. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “Finding a company that will help you figure out that next career step is really special, and Dovetail encouraged me to find the right role and opportunities.”
Roxy has also taken on additional roles to support others in the industry. Training as a Mental Health First Aider, joining the CSR team at Dovetail to drive fundraising initiatives, and becoming an Ambassador or Women In Games, a not for profit organisation dedicated to achieving gender parity and equity in the industry.
Both the film and gaming industries remain male-dominated, something Roxy has navigated throughout her career. Through Women in Games, she helps support and encourage young women looking to break into the industry.
“It’s so important,” she says. “When I was at school, I thought you had to be a programmer to work in Games, and like me, young women and girls who are just starting out in their careers may not realise the diversity of roles within the gaming industry, or the different paths taken to get here. Women In Games host regular careers and networking events and it’s a fantastic opportunity to share experiences, offer advice and build a network of amazing inspirational women.”
Roxy’s Top 5 Tips for Aspiring Video Editors
1.Think About Storytelling
Every video—whether it’s a film, an advert, or a TikTok—tells a story. Pay attention to how different edits affect emotions, pace, and narrative flow. The best editors understand the story they’re trying to tell before they even start cutting.
2.Experiment with Different Software
Try out various editing programs. Many offer free trials—Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere, DaVinci Resolve. Even if you start on a simple app like CapCut, moving to more professional software will expand your skill set and make you adaptable.
3.Make as Many Videos as Possible
The best way to learn is to practise! Even if your first few edits aren’t great, every project teaches you something new. Keep experimenting, refining, and improving.
4.Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People
Join clubs, workshops, or online communities. Being around other creatives will inspire you, give you fresh ideas, and push you to develop your skills further.
5.Stay Positive and Take Opportunities
Say yes to new experiences, even if they’re outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s volunteering for a project, helping a friend edit, or attending a workshop—every opportunity adds to your skill set and opens doors you might not expect.
The Lasting Impact of Offshoot
Looking back, Roxy sees Offshoot not just as a filmmaking programme but as a launchpad—one that built her confidence, skills, and mindset.
“I don’t think I’d have had the same start if it wasn’t for Offshoot,” she reflects. “It gave me teamwork skills, creative confidence, and practical experience that prepared me for university and beyond.”
Roxy’s journey from a teenager in a Saturday morning film workshop to a leader in the gaming industry is proof of that. And thanks to Offshoot, she isn’t just creating her own success—she’s inspiring the next generation to do the same.
“Paul doesn’t just run a programme—he believes in young people. Giving young people opportunities, providing the tools to learn and practice their craft, and respecting their creative ideas - it builds a confidence that will last with them throughout their careers - even if they move into a different industry!"
Roxy's Favourite films...
