Program Sees the Future Through Camera Lens
N.S. FILM DEVELOPMENT CORP.--Program Sees the Future Through Camera Lens
The Nova Scotia Film Development Corporation (NSFDC) has selected eight young participants for the fourth Nova Scotia First Works Program, which runs from April 15 to June 14 in Antigonish.
First Works provides unemployed, out-of-school Nova Scotians between the ages of 18 and 29 with hands-on experience in the basics of film and video production. The team will be responsible for all aspects of film and video production, including script development, production management, the film shoot and final edit. Participants are provided with a modest income during the nine-week program.
The team will partner with experienced film-maker Lulu Keating and a personal leadership facilitator. Ms. Keating is a distinguished Nova Scotian filmmaker with an impressive list of broadcast credits including the award-winning documentary Rita MacNeil in Japan. She wrote and directed a dramatic feature called The Midday Sun, which was shot in Zimbabwe, and the award- winning documentary The Moody Brood.
"First Works is a great way to train young Nova Scotians interested in developing a career in video and film production," said Gordon Balser, Minister for the Office of Economic Development. "The program builds their confidence and helps to develop skills they'll need to work in Nova Scotia's growing film industry."
"This is an excellent way to expose a young team to film production and the possibilities of employment in this field," said Ann MacKenzie, CEO of the NSFDC. "They'll be working with a skilled filmmaker and gaining teamwork and leadership experience that will help them in future employment."
The program encourages self-expression, teamwork, responsibility, patience and other essential employment skills within a creative environment. Participants also gain experience in resumé writing, interviewing and other life-development skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic industry of film. The participants' completed videos will be screened during the Atlantic Film Festival in September.
Nova Scotia's film and television production industry has grown dramatically in the past eight years.
"It will continue to thrive, provided the demand for skilled film crews in the province is met," said Ms. MacKenzie.
The Nova Scotia First Works Program is supported by Human Resources Development Canada and sponsored by the Antigonish Regional Development Association. The personal development and life/work component of the program is designed by Heartwood, an organization that creates learning experiences to develop personal leadership qualities through adventure, teamwork, environmental appreciation and service to others.