BBC Studios partners with Pinterest

New shorts by two emerging creators have landed on Pinterest as a result of a collaboration between BBC Studios and the visual inspiration platform.

The partnership saw creators Emma Downer and Seun Ogunsola commissioned to make original video content (available here: Emma and Seun).

Funded by Pinterest, the creators received commissions for a shortform series (6 x 2 minutes each) as well as bespoke training and development from BBC Studios TalentWorks, including presenter training sessions, networking opportunities and mentorship. The content was produced in partnership with the award-winning BBC Studios’ Factual Entertainment production team based in Bristol.

Senior Development Producer of BBC Studios TalentWorks Katrina Bell said: “With millions of users sharing their interests and ideas there every day, Pinterest is a great platform for discovering new Factual Entertainment creators. That’s why we are delighted to have partnered with Pinterest to work with Emma and Seun on content for its new video platform and are excited to see what users think of it.”

Self-taught DIY expert Emma Downer uses her series to make an outdoor kitchen from a mix of reclaimed and new materials, teaching viewers the skills needed, and the fails to avoid. Meanwhile stylist Seun Ogunsola’s series is inspired by both high-end designers and everyday influences, teaching viewers how to create an affordable capsule wardrobe using upcycled pieces of clothing.

Emma Downer said: ''Working with BBC Studios TalentWorks on this series for Pinterest was so much fun and a true highlight of my year. My mission is to make home DIY accessible for everyone and I can't wait for audiences to see the content so they can get started on their own DIY projects!''

Seun Ogunsola added: “It's always been a dream of mine to host my own fashion-based series sharing DIY and upcycling tips, styling hacks and so much more. So when the opportunity arose to work with BBC Studios and Pinterest on an original series, I jumped at it! I can't wait for everyone to see my Unique Capsule Wardrobe and I hope to see loads of recreations.”

Both creators already have a strong presence on the platform, and this initiative has offered them the opportunity to develop their work to the next level under the guidance of experts in the field.

Hannah Ngakane, Content Partnerships Lead at Pinterest said: "As the home of inspiring content, millions of people come to Pinterest every day, looking for ideas that they can take action on - to bring their dreams to reality. It's been brilliant to partner with BBC Studios TalentWorks to host workshops that help upskill our top creators and enhance their storytelling, and to then see their pitches brought to life through fresh content on Pinterest."

Juliet Rice, Creative Director of Factual Entertainment, BBC Studios, Bristol, said: “It has been a complete delight to partner with BBC Studios TalentWorks and Pinterest on this project. Seun and Emma are really impressive creators and it was wonderful to collaborate with them and have the opportunity to share our experience and learn from theirs.”

Focused on identifying and developing emerging talent, BBC Studios TalentWorks offers a range of opportunities to help new creators reach their potential, as well as supporting the creative community. This includes offering training opportunities, development funding and commissioning content. In 2022, it announced a development, production and distribution deal with Joe Sugg’s new production company, Final Straw Productions. BBC Studios TalentWorks also runs a successful Creator Residency programme which offers paid placements with BBC Studios Productions Units, Production Labels and Invested Indies, giving emerging creators hands-on experience with the best in the business as they develop their skills.