Mature students share powerful journeys in short film ‘Never Too Late’ News from the School of Computing and Digital Media

A documentary spotlighting the lives of three mature students who returned to higher education captures stories of resilience, renewal and the quiet strength of community.

Date: 6 June 2025

Three mature students were among the stars of the School of Computing and Digital Media (SCDM) Summer Show, with the screening of their short film "Never Too Late". The documentary follows their often-emotional journeys back into education, defying societal expectations and showing how education can transform lives at any age. 

Brenda Cambridge, Lanisa Lessie and Jessica Ruby Lascelles, all studying Media and Communications BSc, share not only their academic paths but also the deeply personal battles they faced, including health struggles, grief, self-doubt and the weight of family responsibilities. Each story is a powerful reflection on resilience and the transformative power of second chances. 

Brenda, a proud 63 year old grandmother, enrolled at London Met after being made redundant. Despite profound health setbacks, including knee surgery and dealing with a serious condition affecting her eyes, she persevered. "Every day now I feel like quitting," she comments in the film. "But every morning I wake up and I can see, so I'm going to continue." Her classmates, she said, became a source of strength and camaraderie. 

Lanisa, a mother of four and business owner, decided to enrol to inspire her daughter. She began her studies during the COVID-19 pandemic while navigating grief after her father’s death and complications during pregnancy. "I needed to be her role model," she said. "Reaching the final year for me, that’s my proudest moment." 

Jessica returned to university after dropping out of an earlier programme due to depression. Now thriving in her studies and creative work, she reflects on a journey of rediscovery. "It made me doubt myself... but I’m not here to quit," she said. As the first in her family to graduate, she looks forward to the pride that moment will bring. 

The power of community

Throughout their stories, the strength of the London Met community stands out. Classmates offered solidarity, lecturers provided guidance, and the inclusive learning environment helped sustain each student through their most difficult moments. 

London Met’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Julie Hall, said the film was among her personal highlights of the Summer Show: 

"There was so much fantastic work on display at this year’s Summer Show. It’s a brilliant reflection of the skill and determination of our students. 

"‘Never Too Late’ packs an emotional punch. The stories of these women are genuinely inspiring; they’ve overcome enormous obstacles to pursue their ambitions. Their journeys powerfully illustrate the transformative impact of a London Met education, and everyone in the screening was moved by the honesty with which they shared their experiences."

The SCDM Summer Show runs from Wednesday 4 June until Saturday 14 June.