Young Media Talent to Benefit

NORTHWEST YOUNG MEDIA TALENT TO BENEFIT

NORTHWEST teenagers interested in the media are being urged to apply to a new multi-million pound government scheme, which aims to help them produce creative media projects.

North West Vision, the film, TV and digital media development agency for the Northwest, is co-ordinating Mediabox applications – which could see some groups being awarded up to £80,000.

“This is a fantastic new fund, which is offering 13-to-19-year-olds the chance to develop and produce creative media projects, using film, television, print, radio or online platforms,” explains Helen Bingham, North West Vision’s Head of Production Development.

The Mediabox initiative hopes to encourage young people across England to access new skills, be creative, and to get their voices heard. Disadvantaged young people from different locations, abilities and backgrounds are being encouraged to apply for three different types of grants, ranging from £100 to £80,000.

The My Mediabox grant is open to individuals or groups applying for up to £1,000 to make their project work. The Mid Mediabox grant offers up to £20,000 for group projects, and the Big Mediabox grant will invest up to £80,000 in youth or media focused organisations.

The Department for Education and Skills has invested £6 million in Mediabox, which is run by First Light Movies, Media Trust, Skillset and the UK Film Council.

“North West Vision exists to grow the film, TV and digital media industry in our region, and so encouraging grass root young talent to invest in and explore the industry, is an important part of our work,” explains Helen.

“I’m confident the Mediabox project will provide numerous opportunities for Northwest young people to develop not only their creative ideas, but also lifelong skills in media production.”

Applications for Mediabox grants are now open, with the next round of awards due to close March 27.

“We’re looking for a range of creative projects - from making a film, exhibiting a project or running a festival, to attending a media event or creating a comic. We’re open to all ideas,” adds Helen.

Once an application has been approved, the Mediabox team will offer advice and guidance, and upon completion of the project, distribution and exhibition of the work will be encouraged.

“We want all the Mediabox projects to have a lasting effect on the young people who take part in them,” says Helen.

“Not only will the grants help young people learn more about the media, but we’ll also be encouraging people to stay involved, even after their proposal has finished.”

For more information about the Mediabox scheme, and to complete an on-line application form, go to www.media-box.co.uk