TORONTO — CBC announced today the launch of AccessCBC, a new national pilot program for Deaf and disabled creators that will provide “training, mentorship and, on certain selected projects, financing support, to create scripted and documentary content,” says a CBC press release.
CBC is partnering on the initiative with the ReelAbilities Film Festival Toronto (RAFFTO), presented by the Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre (JCC), which provides creative opportunities and training for people with a disability who work in film, television and video content production.
The AccessCBC program is divided into two streams: one for scripted comedy or drama and a second for short documentaries.
“Ten creators will be invited to join the scripted pitch development stream where they will participate in multiple development workshops tailored to scripted content. Over the course of these workshops, participants will receive practical experience writing pitch documents, individualised feedback, coaching on how to package and market their project, and the opportunity to network with other industry professionals from CBC and across the industry,” reads the press release.
“In the short documentary stream, filmmakers will take part in a two-month development mentorship that will see 10 participants shortlisted and awarded development funding. The participants will be closely mentored by a CBC executive who will provide guidance on the development process. At the end of the development period, one of the 10 shortlisted projects will be greenlit for production.”
The deadline for applications for both streams is Jan. 26. More information is available on the AccessCBC information page hosted by RAFFTO at reelabilities.org/toronto/accesscbc.
“The Canadian media industry is full of exceptional creative talent, and we are proud to partner with the ReelAbilities team to launch this new initiative that encourages even more of those voices to be heard and amplified,” said Sally Catto, general manager of entertainment, factual and sports at CBC, in the press release.
“This first of its kind program will provide professional development, skill enhancement, mentorship and funding opportunities to creators who have the necessary talent to thrive in the media industry when not faced with accessibility barriers.”
“At ReelAbilities we’re constantly blown away by the immense talent and innovation within Deaf and Disability communities,” said Ophira Calof, program coordinator at ReelAbilities Film Festival Toronto.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the CBC on this groundbreaking project, increasing opportunities for storytellers who are often excluded from the media industry along with showcasing the possibilities a more accessible media landscape can bring.”
Harriet Wichin, executive director of the Miles Nadal JCC, added: “The Miles Nadal JCC is committed to the integration of people of all abilities into our programs, and ReelAbilities is just one of the many ways we strive to create a culture of inclusion.
“We are unbelievably proud to host this Film Festival that brings together the community to explore, embrace, and celebrate the diversity of our shared human experience. The partnership between RAFF and AccessCBC will open the doors wider to include a world of new creative talent with important stories to tell.”
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