WINNIPEG – The Aboriginal Peoples Television Network announced the launch of the Aboriginal Media Education Fund (AMEF) on Monday.
The AMEF “will foster the growth of the Aboriginal independent production industry and increase the amount of Aboriginal programming in Canada and internationally by developing a talent pool which can produce, distribute, market and broadcast programming that will be relevant to today’s Aboriginal cultures,” says the press release.
One of APTN’s primary challenges – since its inception – has been finding enough aboriginal TV producers to fill out the original content portion of its daily schedule.
“APTN is proud to launch this initiative, which was designed to initiate our youth into the many possibilities which the broadcast industry offers, and provide support which will allow our producers to excel and find their rightful place as world-class players,” said APTN acting chair, Judy Gingell.
AMEF programs will target three specific groups: Aboriginal youth (age 13+), recent Aboriginal graduates from film and broadcast programs and mid-career professionals seeking new career opportunities in broadcasting. A secondary, but nonetheless very important part of this program will be to create an awareness of the AMEF in international markets by providing both leadership and a forum for discussion with other international like-minded groups.
“APTN expertise is sought out by other national networks for assistance in developing and supporting Aboriginal programming and stories,” says APTN CEO Jean LaRose. “As such, we are the driving force behind the development and delivery of Aboriginal training with the ultimate result of providing quality Aboriginal programming here at home and abroad,” he explains. “The AMEF is the next step in this important development process.”
AMEF programs will start rolling out in 2006. www.amefund.ca
