Channel 4, the UK-based broadcaster, has launched a new initiative aimed at improving diversity in the post-production sector.
The 4PP (4 Post Production) program will offer bespoke skills gap training, shadowing and placement opportunities. And mentoring from senior industry professionals to five mid-to-senior level individuals from underrepresented backgrounds over a six-month period.
According to Variety, the initiative was developed in partnership with dialogue editor and dubbing mixer Emma Butt, who recently authored a paper on the lack of diversity in the post-production sound sector. Successful applicants will be based with Channel 4’s production company partners.
Neila Butt, Channel 4’s creative diversity lead, said: “Following our session on representation within post-production, we wanted to translate our conversation into action… When Emma approached us about this issue, we felt it was something we should take action on and lead the way, and we hope that this kickstarts a change across the industry.” Emma Butt added that the programme was the first step in addressing the “decades-long imbalance” in the sector.
The initiative has been praised by experts such as Diane Kemp and Marcus Ryder from the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity. “This is an excellent example of why we believe that practitioners and academics must work together if we are to meaningfully increase diversity in the media industry,” they said.
The scheme was developed after a panel session hosted by Channel 4 and Butt earlier this year, which discussed diversity, equity and inclusion in post-production.
Applications for 4PP are open until May 31, with candidates required to have a minimum of five years’ experience in their desired job role. The programme is funded by Channel 4’s training and development strategy, 4Skills.
