Channel 4 are giving youngsters the chance to write, direct and produce their own short films.
Channel 4 and Media Trust have joined forces to create an exclusive competition for 16-25 year olds. Ten films will be made for broadcast on Community Channel and showcased at a special screening event to celebrate Black History Month in October 2010, in London hosted by Channel 4 and Media Trust.
Judges are looking for unique and creative ideas that celebrate how black culture has touched and inspired the lives of individuals and communities across the world. A high-profile panel including Channel 4’s Director of Nations & Regions, Stuart Cosgrove, Diversity & Talent Manager, Ade Rawcliffe, Head of Stakeholder Relations, Rebecca Renfro and Commissioning Editor, Angela Ferriera will select ten finalists who will receive specialist training and the support of an industry professional mentor to bring their creative ideas to life.
The opportunity is being fronted by T4 presenter Miquita Oliver, who said “I’m proud to be supporting this competition, which not only gives young people the chance to be creative, but also the chance to celebrate how black culture has inspired them, their community or the wider world and the impact it’s had on their life.”
The competition is specifically looking for young people who feel their voice is underrepresented and who wouldn’t usually get the chance to make a film. Channel 4 will host a practical filmmaking workshop for the young filmmakers, aimed at fleshing out ideas and advising on all aspects of filmmaking.
The ‘First Shots: Identity Uncovered’ competition launches today and aspiring filmmakers can visit www.mediatrust.org/firstshots to enter.
Think you’ve got what it takes to win? Hurry then, because the closing date for entries is midday on Thursday July 29th.