WINNIPEG – With a new western feed coming this fall, and a new license which calls for the network to offer four hours of regional programming in each of its feeds, the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network today announced a streamlining of its programming department.
"The new license, as well as the growing demand from its audience for new and dynamic programming, requires a new structural approach to allow for the network to work closely with the Aboriginal producers across the country,” said CEO Jean LaRose in a press release.
"This means we need to begin working more closely with the Aboriginal production community. Today, we are taking important steps to meet that goal,” added Joanne Levy, director of programming.
The network has established three regional programming managers to build relationships and work more closely with the Aboriginal producers.
Monika Ille is now manager of programming, eastern region (Québec, Maritimes and Nunavut independent producers). In her two years with APTN, Ille has built solid relationships with Quebec producers, says the company’s release. She has a background in producing and directing documentaries, and performing traditional dances and chants (Abenakis).
Chuck Clément is manager of programming, central region (Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Northwest Territories). He is a Métis from St. Boniface, Manitoba.
Finally, Peter Strutt has been hired as manager of programming, western region (Alberta, British Columbia and the Yukon). Formerly of Telefilm, he will be based in Vancouver and will bring his experience and expertise to assist APTN in meeting its new commitments. Strutt brings five years of experience as an investment analyst at Telefilm in Vancouver where his responsibilities included new media, feature film, television and regional French language productions and the Aboriginal Language envelope. He is of Mi’gmaq and Métis ancestry
