TORONTO — WarnerMedia Access Canada and the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television (the Canadian Academy) announced today applications will open Dec. 9 for the inaugural WarnerMedia Access x Canadian Academy Directors Program.
In addition, applications for the second session of the WarnerMedia Access x Canadian Academy Writers Program (launched last year) will open the same day. The submission deadline for both programs is Jan. 7, 2022.
“Both talent activation initiatives focus on supporting experienced Canadian writers or directors from underrepresented communities, including Indigenous, Black, racialized groups, people with disabilities, LGBTQ2IA+ and Francophone members of the aforementioned communities,” explains a press release.
The first year of the directors program “will support up to 10 individuals seeking to advance their careers in episodic television through on-set placement. Participants will gain industry knowledge and unprecedented connections to WarnerMedia executives and creators,” the release says.
The second year of the writers program “will support up to 12 individuals seeking to advance their careers in episodic television or feature film through the development of a specific project; mentorship and community-building opportunities; and industry knowledge and connections to WarnerMedia executives and creators,” the release adds.
“We know that one of the surest ways to create a truly inclusive industry with opportunities for all is through experienced talent from underrepresented communities,” said Deanna Cadette, executive director of WarnerMedia Access Canada, in the release.
“We are excited to see how the incredible writers and directors in our programs will shape storytelling, the audience, and the industry through their exceptional stories, perspectives, and commitment,” Cadette said.
“As the first cohort of the WarnerMedia Access x Canadian Academy Writers Program has gotten underway, we’ve seen first-hand the creativity that can blossom when talented individuals are given the access and opportunity they deserve,” said Beth Janson, CEO of the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television.
“We look forward to working alongside WarnerMedia Access Canada to continue to provide spaces for writers, and now directors, to step into the next phase of their career.”
Applications to the programs can be submitted in English or French, however, the program sessions and communication are solely in English, the release says. An informational session for both programs will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 14.
More information about the directors program is available here. Information about the writers program is here.
