In this Q+A webinar, program manager Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill provides an overview of CBC New Indigenous Voices, alum John Seymour shares his experience as a participant and Sarah answers audience questions. This Q+A webinar was recorded on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Sarah’s contact information is below.

CBC New Indigenous Voices offers 14 weeks of full-time, immersive training for Indigenous creators aged 18 and over. Participants learn from industry experts and gain hands-on experience across key areas of film and television production.

Applications for the 2026 edition close on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 12 p.m. Central Time. Learn more and apply

There is no fee to apply.

Topics discussed in the Q+A webinar include how the three phases of the program work, what to expect during the internship placement and how short film scripts are selected for production. Sarah also answers questions about eligibility, application requirements and what the selection committee looks for, as well as participant supports such as pay, transportation, meals, travel and accommodations.

The webinar also highlights the program’s learning environment, including mentorship from industry professionals, opportunities to build networks and the integration of cultural supports such as access to an Elder and optional cultural practices.

Training includes six weeks of workshops and sessions with industry professionals, a short film production where participants rotate through multiple crew roles with mentor support and a six-week internship with a production company, studio or broadcaster. Participants are paid Manitoba minimum wage during the program.

CBC New Indigenous Voices is an entry-level program. Applicants do not need formal film training and are encouraged to apply with a range of experience, including self-taught learning, high school coursework or post-secondary studies.

If you have further questions, please contact program manager Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill at sarahs [dot] yellowquill [at] nsi-canada [dot] ca.

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CBC New Indigenous Voices 2026 is funded by Title, Presenting and Tuition Sponsor CBC; Program Partners Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Neeginan Education, Training and Employment Services, Inc. (NETES), Telefilm Canada; Strategic Sponsors BC Film Foundation, The Winnipeg Foundation; Provincial Sponsor Manitoba Film & Music; Industry Supporters IATSE 856, On Screen Manitoba; Service Sponsor Line 21 Media Services. National Screen Institute Core Funders are Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council, Rogers. More sponsors will be added as confirmed.