Video producer, host, performer and puppeteer extraordinaire! This week we caught up with Emre, who wears many different hats as part of our talented Educational Resource Centre team.

The team produce a variety of in-house television programs, including Be Positive which helps patients understand more about the RCH and what happens within our walls.

Rocco and Jazz, our friendly puppets, appear on the Be Positive show. They also get out on the wards meeting children and families. We spoke to Emre, who slips into the character of Rocco, and has enormous fun doing so!

What does a typical day look like for you?

“There are no typical days! Some days I’m filming, some days editing and some days performing. If a patient requests a visit from Rocco, then I’ll go up and have a chat. We know how much it means to the kids and it’s great to see their faces light up when Rocco arrives.”

What is the role of Rocco?  

“Quite simply, Rocco provides a way for patients to connect to something fun and non-threatening. Rather than an adult going and talking to a child, Rocco allows me to tap into my childish side and interact with the kids on a level that really relates to them. I can use their interests, like Taylor Swift, to communicate with them. If you want to connect with kids you really have to let go of your inhibitions.”

What do you love about being Rocco?

“Rocco brings out the fun side of me and that makes patients happy. Rocco’s a bit silly and funny, and deep within, that’s how I feel I am too, so I guess Rocco is an extension of who I am.”

What do you enjoy about working at the RCH?

“There aren’t a lot of jobs where you can interact with such lovely, kind, understanding people and where you can make a difference to kids’ experience of hospital.

“At the end of the day, we’re all here to benefit the kids during a time when they might feel isolated or afraid. If the Be Positive show can give knowledge that empowers them, or Rocco can bring a kid joy and make them laugh, then that’s a great achievement.”

Is there anything we might be surprised to learn about you?

“I’m also a singer/songwriter and write around two songs a month in Turkish. My background is Turkish; I came here as a refugee, and speak Turkish and English fluently. Music helps me connect with my heritage.”

Has your child met Rocco or Jazz?

You can visit the B+ website for more information: http://www.rch.org.au/be-positive/