As a fan, I am absolutely thrilled about this incredible collaboration between Asif Kapadia, Reggie Yates, We Are Doc Women, and Dunhill for the BAFTA Elevate program! This is a monumental step towards fostering diversity and inclusivity within the film and TV industry, an area that has long been in dire need of change.
BAFTA, film director Asif Kapadia (known for Amy, Senna, and docu-fiction thriller 2073), TV host Reggie Yates (Reggie Yates: Extreme Russia, Reggie Yates: Insider), the advocacy group We Are Doc Women, and high-end menswear brand Dunhill are teaming up for a BAFTA Elevate program. This initiative aims to speed up the careers of approximately 20 mid-senior level creatives who produce documentary and specialist factual TV content as well as feature films.
BAFTA’s qualitative study indicates a potential reduction in the variety of stories we see on screen and those who tell them. In light of these findings, BAFTA in partnership with Dunhill is now inviting applications from individuals who come from underrepresented groups within the industry such as ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, or those from low socio-economic backgrounds. These selected candidates will gain access to BAFTA’s extensive network, industry exposure, and professional development opportunities over a two-year period, which includes knowledge building workshops and focused career advancement sessions.
Jane Millichip, head of BAFTA, stated: “BAFTA’s goal is to create a fair playing ground for individuals who encounter obstacles and prejudice when aiming for a career in the screen industries. Through BAFTA Elevate, we offer chances to those whose voices have been silenced by inequality, inspiring people from underrepresented communities to tell their stories. By doing so, we add depth and richness to our cultural tapestry.
Kapadia expressed: “On numerous occasions, I’ve felt like a stranger within the U.K., in education, in the film industry. However, instead of seeing it as a disadvantage, I’ve utilized this situation by being proficient in multiple languages and having a broad understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures, traditions, beliefs, and thought processes.
He stated: “My career has allowed me to explore various parts of the globe. I draw upon this rich tapestry of experiences in my work. I aspire for BAFTA Elevate to empower individuals with similar backgrounds as mine, providing them visibility, influence, and resources. By embracing our unique perspectives, we can gain access while remaining distinct – our individuality is our strength, it’s our unique selling point. Utilizing what sets us apart, we can craft stories that resonate emotionally, potentially altering people’s thoughts and actions.
Yates noted: “The strongest documentaries are those that provide a glimpse into lives, incidents, or viewpoints we might not have related to otherwise. It’s important to have diverse voices and novel perspectives to avoid retelling the same old tales repeatedly. That’s why it’s encouraging to observe BAFTA and Dunhill supporting a fresh generation of underrepresented voices in the documentary field. These individuals possess remarkable skills and innovative ideas, but they’re often hindered by a lack of industry know-how, connections, and self-assurance.
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2024-09-18 11:54