A new freelancer mentoring scheme for workers at a ‘crossroads’ in their career has been lauched with ScreenSkills backing.

Fatima Salaria, newly appointed MD of Naked, Quicksilver boss Eamonn Matthews, Lisa Holdsworth, All Creatures Great and Small writer and chair of the Writers Guild of GB, BBC3 commissioner editor Nasfim Haque, Man on Wire editor Jinx Godfrey and Sherlock DoP Neville Kidd are some of those who are mentoring as part of the Crossroads Mentoring programme.

The scheme is being run by DV Talent, the school for film and TV professionals, in collaboration with www.thetalentmanager.com , and is open to people from across the screen industries.  It is fully funded by ScreenSkills using National Lottery funds awarded by the BFI as part of the Future Film Skills programme.

It has just reopened for the 2nd round of applications – with a deadline of Thurs 15th October. The scheme has a particular focus on supporting people working in the nations and regions, as well as those from under-represented groups.

‘’Navigating a career in the TV and film industry can be really challenging,’’ said Matt Born, the programme director. ‘’Whether you’re trying to step up a grade, move genre, returning from a career break, raise your profile, or simply trying to get your focus and confidence, having a mentor who has a holistic view of the industry – and can be a guide – is invaluable.’’

‘’We’re incredibly grateful to all our mentors who are giving their time, expertise and experience to help others coming through to try and reach their potential.’’

Jane Saunders, ScreenSkills mentoring programme manager, said: “Mentoring is a brilliant way of helping support people and can be invaluable for those at a crossroads in their career. We are pleased to be supporting this initiative and hope this will be of particular help to those from groups who are currently not well represented in the screen industries.”

The Crossroads scheme is aimed at people who have at least 2 years’ professional experience in the screen industries, and who are facing a particular challenge in their career.

In total, the programme will pair up 50 mentees with mentors. The mentoring will involve regular, one-on-one sessions over a 6-month period.

To apply, candidates need to:

  • have at least 2-3 years professional industry experience
  • be at a crossroads in their career
  • be able to nominate 3 ideal mentors

To apply, head here

 

Jon Creamer

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