For many working professionals, pursuing further study may feel like a deferred dream. Balancing career responsibilities, personal commitments, and academic deadlines is no easy task.
For our Lead Designer, Sophie Pang, that challenge became an opportunity to create an award-winning documentary recognised on the international film festival circuit. While working full-time at Excelsia and studying the Bachelor of Screen Production part-time, Sophie wrote, directed and produced Blackout – A light to be lit, a poetic documentary exploring themes of darkness and transformation.
The film has since received Best Mini Documentary at the Christian Film Festival, Best Documentary at the Christian Online Film Festival, and an official nomination at the Christian Family Film Festival.
A story that deserved to be told
The documentary centres on the real-life journey of Robert Li, a criminal turned pastor, who Sophie has known personally for many years.
‘I have known firsthand the kind of change that Robert’s story carries. His journey from crime and imprisonment is not just a biography, it is a testimony,’ Sophie explains.
For Sophie, the project was never simply about making a film. ‘Though there are many other themes this documentary could explore, as a Christian, I felt a calling to use the skills God has given me to point to His grace.’
That desire shaped the heart of the project, reflecting broader themes of hope, redemption, and the possibility of transformation in life’s darkest moments. In a remarkable twist, the message of the film found its way into the production through a real blackout during filming, that reinforced ‘light can grow even in darkness.’
As both a filmmaker and a Christian, Sophie was intentional about creating a film that could connect with audiences regardless of their background. ‘With a focus on universal themes, the poetry, imagery and pacing were designed to create space for reflection, not persuasion,’ Sophie adds.
For Sophie, Robert’s transformation extends beyond personal determination. ‘It is the glory of Christ and the redemption that God made happen. Despite facing challenges in his pastoring life, Robert now handles every friction with joy.’
Through the film, Sophie invites people to connect with the idea that no one is beyond redemption. ‘There is no perfect life, but a life sustained by hope.’
Learning while working
One of the most impressive aspects of Sophie’s achievement is that it took place alongside a demanding full-time role and ongoing study. ‘I chose to study one unit per semester, which meant I could balance the workload without sacrificing quality in work or studies,’ she says.
Rather than viewing work and study as competing priorities, Sophie chose a complementary approach. ‘Work and study became two parallel lines moving toward the same goal of becoming a better designer, a better filmmaker and a better human.’
This documentary gradually emerged from that learning journey, allowing her to apply new skills in a meaningful and practical way. ‘It was demanding at times, but deeply fulfilling.’
‘Never stop growing’
Sophie’s commitment to the Excelsia value of lifelong learning is particularly inspiring given that this is her second bachelor’s degree, after already earning a master’s qualification. ‘I love learning new things, and I believe we should never stop growing.’
She wanted to be trained in filmmaking in a structured, practical way with experienced industry professionals. The screen production course at Excelsia teaches both technical and creative skills, including visual and narrative structure, cinematic language, sound design, and purpose.
‘There is something wonderful about studying alongside the new generation and watching them graduate. It keeps me young and curious.’ Sophie’s story also highlights the unique opportunities available at Excelsia.
‘Excelsia’s benefit for employees to study free of charge was a gift I couldn’t ignore,’ she notes. ‘It helped me pursue a genuine passion, expand my creativity and step into a new area of storytelling.’ Being in a Christian higher education environment also led to Sophie’s faith and creativity growing stronger together as one integrated calling.
Looking ahead
Receiving recognition from multiple film festivals has been both encouraging and deeply humbling for Sophie, affirming that there is room for faith-filled, poetic filmmaking in the world. ‘The awards were confirmation, not so much of my own ability, but of the value in telling stories of hope and redemption.’
The experience has strengthened her desire to continue telling purposeful stories through film. ‘I feel more confident now to use creativity to share stories that can touch more hearts.’
Sophie’s journey reminds us that learning does not end when we enter the workforce. With the right support and dedication, a desire for lifelong learning can become a pathway to unlimited possibilities and achievements.
At Excelsia, we’re proud to celebrate lighthouses like Sophie who continue to lead and inspire others through their work and perseverance.
