The Welsh Government in partnership with Diverse Cymru are holding an event on November 20 to show underrepresented groups how to get into the fast growing Film and TV industry in Wales.
The event, run in conjunction with a number of partners including the BBC, S4C and BAFTA Cymru, will showcase the variety of roles available in the industry and help people to get that first foot on the ladder.
Speaking ahead of the event, Lord Elis-Thomas said:
“This event is an exciting opportunity to show individuals who hadn’t previously considered a career in Film, television or both that anything is indeed possible. Increasing diversity within the industry is something I am passionate about and last month I was pleased to support Hijinx’s call for an actor with a learning disability to win a BAFTA Cymru award by 2025.
I wholeheartedly support their aims of truly representing society on our screens. I’m heartened by the backing they have received from the screen industry and confident that with the support of learning disabled-led organisations, Wales can be pioneers in changing the face of who is represented on the small and big screen.
I encourage those interested in learning more about this exciting career path to come along to the event”.
The event is free to attend and is targeting groups underrepresented within the Film and TV industry: Women, BME, disabled, LGBT+ or from a low socio economic group. No previous experience within the industry is needed and those with transferable skills are also encouraged to attend – hairdressers, makeup artists, dressmakers or tailors, carpenters or joiners, electricians and accountants to name a few.
Zoё King, Funding and Projects Manager at Diverse Cymru said:
“The number of creative jobs in the film and tv industries in Wales is rising, however Diverse Cymru’s research on behalf of the Welsh Government has shown evidence of the underrepresentation of the groups of people we are targeting to attend this event.
Bringing together representatives from broadcasters, independent production companies, colleges and trade organisations, this event is a great opportunity for anyone who has wondered if this is an industry for them, if their skills are relevant or what careers or training may be available.
We want to encourage everyone to come along and find out for themselves.”
This event is part of a wider piece of work to increase diversity within the film and TV industry in Wales. It follows on from a report commissioned in 2016 that looked at barriers to working in the industry and possible solutions.
Find out more about this free event here: https://gov.wales/diversityinfilm
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