Creative duo: Marcelles Lee (left) and Carlington Silburn. - Photo by aldain reid

When was the last time you tuned into local television or cable and felt enamoured by a programme or commercial you saw, based on its logical sequence, creativity and overall emotional appeal?

Well, chances are, if you were captivated, either Marcelles Lee or Carlington Silburn had a hand in it. Bold, confident and clearly at the top of their game, these two young men boast an impressive portfolio of work that has graced television screens and online media across the globe.

PASSION FOR THE ARTS

Carlington Silburn, who operates the in-demand video production outfit 4REEL PRODUCTIONS, always had a passion for the arts.

"From an early age, I explored a number of artistic avenues," said Silburn. "It began with Cathy Levy's Little People and then on to the Ashe Ensemble. Now I'm using the outlet to demonstrate my affinity for the arts in an equally creative way."

Silburn' s company, which he runs in partnership with his wife Vinell, has attracted the attention of corporate Jamaica.

After leaving high school, Silburn joined CVM Television as a junior editor.

"This was my university," said Silburn. "I couldn't have asked for a more intense training ground. Most of what I know was gained on the job."

Silburn, who recently graduated from New York Film Academy as a qualified film director, now has his sights set on greater challenges in the future.

"Feature film production and directing are areas that I am quite interested in," he said.

INSPIRATION TO YOUNG JAMAICANS

Marcelles Lee's story was equally impressive and provides well needed inspiration for many young Jamaicans who are still unsure of the direction their lives should take.

His journey started from high school, when he dabbled in the visual arts for fun. He earned a bachelors degree in medical technology, but he had his heart elsewhere.

"By the time my formal studies were completed, my exposure to video editing was so deep, it was abundantly clear that this was the path my life would take.

"Some of my underground work caught the eye of Reggae Entertainment Television's (RETV) executives and I was offered a job as a video editor," Lee said.

Hectic environment

At 27 years, Lee is a lead editor with this cable content provider.

"The work environment is pretty hectic, and I'm forced to be at my best in terms of creative output," he said.

"Only the best is good enough for me and my superiors love that," he added, with a confident grin.

Lee and Silburn have demonstrated the possibilities that exist and are shining examples for young aspirants in this industry.

Aldain Reid is a serial entrepreneur and currently serves as president of the Young Entrepreneurs' Association of Jamaica. He may be contacted via his entrepreneurship blog at www.aldainreid.com.