ETIC_Algarve trainers at THU – Trojan Horse Was a Unicorn

At the end of September, one of the world’s largest events dedicated to the entertainment industry, Trojan Horse was a Unicorn (THU), took place, and we were there. Here is a record of the participation of trainers Artur Filipe, a “veteran” at this event, and Francisco Simões, who made his debut in 2022, in the words of Artur Filipe:

THU was founded by André Lourenço (note from ETIC_Algarve: who, we recall, participated in a “Conversas com Lábia” (Smooth-talking Conversations) with ETIC_Algarve graduates in May 2021) and held its first edition in Tróia, Setúbal, in 2013.

It is a different and pioneering concept in this type of events, especially in the point where there are no VIP’S. For a week we are all, participants, companies and speakers, in an open and uninhibited environment where everyone shares the experience without barriers and where no one is left alone.

This event attracts the most prestigious companies in the world of animation, film, and gaming, who come with the intention of recruiting in a relaxed environment where they have the opportunity to meet artists face-to-face and see beyond their portfolios. It is a unique opportunity for anyone who dreams of succeeding in this industry. This component of the event alone is worth the investment, but the advantages don’t stop there.

One of THU‘s fundamental concepts was the creation of the Tribe, a community that goes beyond the event itself. Participants from around the world connect with their peers and form strong friendships and partnerships that do not end with the event, making it an excellent way to network with the best in the industry. As a professional, it has been fundamental to my integration into the industry and is one of the reasons why I return every year.

I have participated in the event since 2015 uninterruptedly and this year I took a colleague, Francisco Simões, to have this experience, because I think that this event is not only for artists, but for everyone who can and wants to be within the industry or even for those who like us are training professionals.

As trainers, it is imperative to be aware of the needs of industries and what companies are looking for in a professional so that we can adapt our training to the market. The event has a very educational component where, by sharing the experiences of the best professionals in the field, we can outline a path for our trainees, better understand what is being done, how it is being done, and what comes next in this area. I learn and grow as a professional every time I attend the event, and I bring this knowledge with me to pass on to my trainees, thus building a bridge to create better professionals in the future.

Portugal is growing in this area, but we are still miles away from what is being done around the world in one of the most profitable industries in the world. That is why it is very important to learn from the international community if we want to set up companies and create successful professionals in Portugal.

THU was created to open these doors and build bridges, we just have to have the courage to cross them.”

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