" Professionally, I was at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and did lots of things there, and then I won the BBC Carlton Hobbs Award, so I did some BBC Radio drama work, which is a lovely way to start out because you work with lots of great people, and you’re working all the time, so you’re learning rather than sitting around and waitressing. "
- Lydia Leonard

In the given statement, Lydia Leonard shares her journey through the early stages of her career as a professional actress. She mentions that she studied at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and participated in various activities there, which laid the foundation for her acting skills. Following this, she received the BBC Carlton Hobbs Award, an achievement that led to opportunities in radio drama work with the BBC. According to Leonard, engaging in constant creative work is a valuable way to start a career because it provides continuous learning and growth.

Beyond its surface meaning, this quote speaks to the importance of seizing early opportunities for professional development. The experience gained from regular work assignments, such as those in radio drama, allows an artist to refine their craft continuously without downtime or stagnation. This constant engagement fosters a robust skill set and confidence, setting a strong precedent for future career endeavors. Additionally, it highlights the significance of networking and collaborating with established professionals early on in one's career, which can lead to new opportunities and further development.

Lydia Leonard is an accomplished actress who has built her reputation through rigorous training and numerous professional engagements. Her statement reflects both personal experiences and valuable insights into the acting profession, emphasizing the benefits of consistent work and collaboration from the outset of a career.