MMW FORUM @ SMPTE EXPO 09 | 10-11am | 24 July 2009
Event report by Nicole Hansson
“BRIDGING THE GAP”
WIFT NSW Media Mentorship for Women (MMW) presented a panel discussion titled: ‘Bridging the Gap - Empowering the Next Generation’
The forum moderator was Leisle Grant (Digi-media creative and i-mentoring moderator)
Forum speakers were Dr Jane Roscoe (Network Programmer, SBS), Lena Nahlous (Director Information and Cultural Exchange), David Opitz (Projects and Program Manager Metro Screen) and Tracey Lang (Course Manager, TTOC)
The essence of the forum reiterated the importance of mentorships within the industry for both emerging and mid – career professionals and the variety of ways these mentorships can take place.
Moderator Leisle Grant opened the forum with the general question about each speakers current mentorship opportunities.
At SBS, Jane Roscoe identified formal cadetships such as those in journalism with news and current affairs as well as those in their legal department. Informal internships occur when someone is attached to specific programs and departments. Indigenous mentorships are encouraged for Indigenous Creatives that may be either early and mid career.
Lena Nahlous’ organisation is based in Western Sydney. “An incredibly culturally diverse area that needs opportunity and support to allow emerging and developing artists to tell their stories. There is a lack of infrastructure and people need access to equipment, skills and training”. The focus is on digital media and screen based work. Formal accreditation through partnerships with TAFE were mentioned. Such as Multicultural mentorships involving how to mange an Arts project.
Metro Screen’s David Opitz believes in “Acess and Equity”. Mentoring programs are for emerging film makers whereby people can get training, mentoring, equipment, cash resources and exhibition opportunities. The second tier is for Indigenous people (mid career level) to have the opportunity to create larger, well developed films. In a nutshell, “technical and creative support and encouragement”
Tracey Lang joined TTOC 18 months ago when she noticed a major shortage of technical operators and wanted to bridge the gap. The two areas of focus provided are the Grade One Certificate which provides the opportunity to be guided by a mentor and “gain that invaluable hands on experience”. The second area is for existing professionals wanting to up skill or cross skill within the industry.
Moderator Leisle Grant put the question to the speakers had they been mentored at some stage of their career and what experiences were gained?
Dr Jane Roscoe when briefly mentioning her academic background, noted that mentoring is built into this system where as in broadcasting it’s not necessarily so. She believes that of key importance is to “find people who find your passion and interest” and “building connections” Networking and building a group of people you can draw upon.
“Don’t think short term, think long term, every connection is important.” The mentors that she mentioned in supporting her asked the right questions and helped her to gather the right set of skills. David also reiterated for him the importance of “developing relationships with like minded people”.
Tracy Lang made the very interesting point that she could identify three mentors who had helped shape her journey but they would most likely not even be aware of this. “They empowered her and gave her responsibility”.
Lena Nahlous highlighted the importance of listening, talking to people, doing research, being sensitive and observing. She was struck by the impact of mentor programs in her work giving the example of new arrivals. African journalists from Sierra Leone had smuggled out footage but it was all video tapes on analogue. They were given support in changing it to digital and produced a documentary. One of these journalists has now ended up working in the industry as a result.
David Opitz added “it’s always about listening”. He discussed the importance of feedback and evaluation within the mentorship. “The industry is changing so be open-minded”. Look out for developing trends and where possible take it to another level. Eg Don’t just make a short film and leave it there”
Briefly, opportunities for possible training ground for young people coming into the industry were discussed; Reality TV and long running Soaps were named as possible avenues for people to learn the basics.
A brief Q and A followed giving the audience the opportunity ask questions of the speakers to expand on what had been discussed.
Jane Roscoe summarised the belief of all the panellists by “Helping the next generation find their place in the industry.”
The forum was energised with both practical information and excellent insights. It successfully validated the importance of mentorship programs, both formal and informal to not only empower the next generation but to make connections with this one.
