Q&A with Charlotte van Buuren: Creative Business lecturer and Master Media Innovation alumna

What led you (back) to BUas?  

Charlotte: ‘I studied International Media and Entertainment Management (IMEM) at BUas, which was called NHTV at the time. Before university, I worked as a model and lived abroad. My bachelor graduation documentary explored the mental well-being of models, highlighting the industry’s challenges. This experience reinforced my desire to create impactful media, whether through documentaries, apps, or digital platforms.’ 

‘After graduating, I explored various roles in the media industry. I worked as a freelancer at film festivals such as the Netherlands Film Festival (NFF), International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), and International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), taking on production-related assignments. Teaching was always in the back of my mind, but I wanted industry experience first.’ 

‘In 2020, when the pandemic hit, freelance projects disappeared, and I decided to pursue a Master’s in Media Innovation (MMI) at BUas to specialise in digital design, websites, and apps. For my master’s graduation, I created a concept for an app aimed at promoting sustainable fashion choices. Throughout my years as a model, I witnessed firsthand the environmental impact of the fashion industry.’ 

‘After completing my master’s, I continued working in digital production. In 2023, Arnoud Versluis (one of the educational managers at BUas) reached out with a teaching opportunity in the Creative Business programme. What started as a short-term role quickly became a more permanent position.’ 

Can you tell us about the courses you teach at BUas?  

Charlotte: ‘I supervise AV Production House in year two, a storytelling course called Cross-Platform Thinking in year three, and Professional Career Management in years one and two. In the latter, I focus on reflection exercises and role-playing scenarios to help students develop their professional skills.’ 

What do you enjoy most about teaching?  

Charlotte: ‘Coming from a family of educators, teaching feels natural to me. I enjoy working with students, seeing their motivation, and being inspired by their creativity. The interaction is a two-way street. I teach them, but they also inspire me.’ 

Are you still active in the media industry?  

Charlotte: ‘Yes, I work as a digital producer for film festivals, helping implement online screening systems and coordinating digital projects. I bridge the gap between web developers and festival organisers, making the process as efficient as possible. It is a technical role with elements of project management, and I enjoy working at the intersection of technology and media.’ 

What do you see happening in the media industry?  

Charlotte: 'AI is rapidly transforming media creation, allowing content to be produced faster. Social media is evolving, influencing how we consume and engage with media. My goal is to help students think critically about the media they consume and create, encouraging a deeper understanding beyond quick media trends.' 

What advice would you give students aspiring to work in media?  

Charlotte: ‘To succeed in the creative industry, you need to be assertive and proactive. However, never compromise your values or vision. Stay true to yourself and your creative ideals. If you are passionate about something, pursue it without hesitation.’ 

For more about Charlotte’s work, you can connect with her on LinkedIn.