James Cusack, 24, is a DJ from South Yorkshire. He has presented shows on Hallam FM, Galaxy and, more recently, Capital FM.
He also DJ’s at various nightclubs, presents an online TV channel and travelled the world through his work. We caught up with him to see what he thinks about youth employment, what motivates him and to hear his opinions of what the Big Academy is doing for young people.
What do you love most about doing what you do?
Every day there's something new, it never gets boring or tedious and I never feel like it's a job, because I enjoy my work!
Why do you think you are successful at what you do?
You need a lot of determination to make things happen, but you have to enjoy it too; I think as long as you enjoy the line of work you go into you'll get a lot further and find it easier to progress.
How do you keep motivated?
My alarm clock to be honest, because if it wasn't for that, a combination of late nights and sometimes early mornings would stop me moving from my bed for a couple of days! That said, I'm doing something I've always wanted to do so that's enough.
What would you say to a young person who is feeling uninspired about life and work?
There's always enough people that just think it's okay to not try harder and better themselves and not get into a career that they really want to do, because they think it's too difficult. The worst thing would be to look back in a few years time and think maybe I could have. There's only one thing that stops this and it's the get up and do something about it attitude.
What do you think about The Big Academy and the work we’re trying to do, in helping all young people to get inspire and achieve success?
I think it's great work, as there are a lot less opportunities for young people now-a-days and young people often feel like they can't achieve certain goals, maybe that's a career goal. That's where it's doing a good thing to ensure all young people realise their potential and talent.