TORONTO – One of the announcements out of the Canadian Film and Television Production Association (CFTPA) gathering in Ottawa this week is CHUM Limited’s sponsorship of a new mentorship program for Aboriginal peoples and visible minorities from Alberta and Manitoba.
The commitment is part of CHUM’s nearly $20 million investment in programming benefits in Alberta and Manitoba as a result of its acquisition of Craig Media. It involves $175,000 and up to 12 mentorships awarded over three years to aspiring film and television producers.
"The CFTPA is delighted about the launch of this new program. Our partnership with CHUM will assist us in continuing to provide support to the next generation of Canadian producers," said Guy Mayson, CFTPA president and CEO, in the release.
"As a strong supporter of Canadian independent production, CHUM is pleased to be able to further our investment in Canada’s film and television industries by helping to provide opportunities for learning and skills development to aspiring producers and fostering diversity in television," added Roma Khanna, senior vice-president, content, CHUM Television.
The CHUM Cultural Diversity Mentorship Program, to be organized and administered by the CFTPA, will place interns with producers for a minimum 30-week mentorship during which they will receive training designed to foster the development of hands-on skills and practical knowledge of the film and TV industries.
Emphasis of the program is on direct involvement in producing, enhancing administrative and technical skills, creating networking opportunities, and gaining a solid understanding of the sector. Mentors will be responsible for providing career assistance, feedback, guidance and a debriefing following the completion of the placement. Each intern will receive a minimum of $15,000 for their placement – $11,000 contributed by the program, and a minimum $4,000 contributed by the mentor company.
For more information on the program, please visit www.cftpa.ca.
