Hannah Maia Taylor
I call myself the Head Honcho of Maia Media because it sounds good. I also call myself a Filmmaker, Photographer & all round Social Media Ninja.
In 2003 I graduated from the School of Oriental & African Studies (SOAS) in London with a BA in Social Anthropology. After travelling extensively I decided to continue studying anthropology alongside developing my interest in visual media. I undertook an MA in Visual Anthropology enabling me to focus on the comparative study of visual cultures and develop the use of ethnographic documentary filmmaking and photography techniques.
On behalf of The Big Lottery Fund I was given a ‘Big Boost Award’ in 2007, in recognition of my social entrepreneurial skills and commitment to bringing about change within communities. The award allowed me to develop and deliver a project that worked towards reducing social exclusion of young refugees through the facilitation of filmmaking workshops and the creation of a number of short documentary films.
I have extensive experience working within the voluntary and community sector as Media & Communication Development Adviser where I have been able to share my knowledge on all things social and digital. I have designed and delivered a variety of training sessions such as ‘Introduction to Web Design’, ‘Promoting your Organisation using Digital Media’ and ‘51 Top Tactics to Developing your Social Media Strategy’. More recently I have been commissioned by Visit Wales to establish a content, social and digital media strategy for the MBWales channel which promotes mountain biking within the country. The role requires me to work closely with the Forestry Commission and identify potential audiences and their online spaces.
I like to pursue a lifestyle that embraces outdoor adventures and I love taking on new challenges. A 17-day journey by canoe in Canada is among one of my recent favourites. In my spare time I can usually be found outdoors taking photographs or more often than not riding (and falling off) my mountain bike.
I have a penchant for alfresco dining, sponge cake, falafel and chilli’s.
But above all I loves to make films!
Head HonchoHannah Maia Taylor
Patrick Bird
I am the Assistant Honcho, Filmmaker and all round useful person. I’ve always been passionate about outdoor sports. As a teenager I devoted myself to climbing. Highlighted by the time I took a compass and drew a circle on a UK map centred on the Peak District and told myself I could only apply for university’s that fell within it’s small circumference. Once at University I undertook a degree in Geology where I got the chance to learn even more about rock…and climb. I’m both SPA and IRATA qualified and one of my proudest achievements to date involves a successful trip to Yosemite in 2001 where I made it up a couple of big wall’s including Zodiac in 4 days without using our hammer.
I’ve had a range of outdoor focused jobs from managing the Castle Climbing Centre in London to the multi-store manager of Cotswold Outdoor branches in Manchester. I enjoy ogling lots of nice gear which makes me excited to get outside.
When I’m not mountain biking, fixing broken bikes or clambering up big rocks I can often be found setting up my camera.
He have a penchant for Parmesan cheese, champagne, and expensive socks.
Assistant HonchoPatrick Bird
