BAFTA, film director Asif Kapadia (Amy, senna, documentary thriller 2073), TV host Reggie Yates (Reggie Yates: Extreme Russia, Reggie Yates: The Insider), advocacy group We Are Doc Women and British luxury menswear brand Dunhill are collaborating on the BAFTA Elevate program to accelerate the careers of up to 20 mid- to senior-level creatives producing documentary and specialist documentary TV content and feature films .
Qualitative research conducted by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) suggests that “narrowing opportunities may reduce the range of stories on our screens and those who can tell them,” the British Academy said. “In response to these findings, BAFTA and Dunhill have today launched a call for applications from under-represented groups within the industry, including those from ethnic minority groups, disabled people and/or low socio-economic backgrounds. Apply. Leveraging BAFTA’s unique community of 12,000 creative practitioners, BAFTA will provide networking and industry exposure over two years, alongside a range of wider knowledge-building and focused professional development.
Jane Millichip, Chief Executive of BAFTA, said: “BAFTA’s mission is to level the playing field for those in society who face barriers and bias when pursuing careers in the film industry. BAFTA Elevate provides opportunities for voices who are hindered by inequality and Encouraging people from underrepresented groups to share their stories enriches our cultural landscape.
Kapadia said: “In many ways, I have often felt like an outsider in the UK, in education and in the film industry. But I have always tried to use this as an advantage. I speak more than one language and I am open to different cultures. Grow up with understanding and respect for people, customs, beliefs and ways of thinking.
He added: “Through my work, I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world. I bring all of this experience to bear in my work. I hope BAFTA Elevate can give people with stories like mine the agency, the face and the support to empower They become outsiders, yet insiders – our experiences make us unique, and that’s our superpower, using our uniqueness to tell compelling stories that may change the way people think and behave.
Yates added: “The most powerful documentaries are those that give us a window into the lives, events and perspectives of people we might not otherwise be able to relate to – we need different voices and fresh perspectives so we don’t Just repeating the same old stories, which is why we’re delighted to see BAFTA and Dunhill championing a new generation of under-represented voices in documentary, despite their talent and brilliant ideas. Hindered by lack of internal knowledge, industry connections and confidence.
