The National Screen Institute invites refugees and newcomers in Manitoba, who arrived in Canada within the last five years, to apply for the new NSI Intro to Production pilot program, offering a unique and customized opportunity to learn about careers in film and TV production.

The program is a blend of online and in-person training, designed to provide entry-level knowledge and hands-on experience in film and TV production.

“The NSI Intro to Production pilot program is an important first step for refugees and newcomers in Manitoba to learn about the industry and utilize their unique skills and experiences in film and TV. This program not only offers training but also serves as a platform to connect with industry professionals, laying a foundation for participants’ future careers,” remarked Ursula Lawson, senior programs manager.

The training has two parts:

1. Online workshops (starting January 29, 2024): Professional screenwriter Jeffrey St. Jules will lead three online sessions focused on scriptwriting and transforming story ideas into film scripts. One of the scripts will be brought to life in part 2 of the program.
2. In-person training (starting March 15, 2024): Program advisor Lesley Oswald will lead a six-day workshop in Winnipeg. This is where the magic happens. Participants will collaborate to produce a short film, written by one of their peers. Covering various aspects of film production, this part includes scriptwriting, budgeting, problem-solving and job skills. It’s a hands-on experience where participants will learn about different roles on a film set and engage in tasks from location setup to film editing.

At a glance

• Time commitment: Three online workshops and a six-day in-person session in Winnipeg.
• How to apply: Visit the program page for full details.
• Application deadline: January 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m., Central Time.
• Selection: Up to 10 participants will be chosen based on suitability and readiness for the program.

This program is right for you if you:

• Arrived in Canada as a refugee or new resident within the past five years.
• Are 18 years or older.
• Aspire to build a career in the film and TV production industry.
• Have reliable internet access and a computer or smartphone.
• Have intermediate English skills – interviews and training will be delivered in English.
• Can commit to all six days of the in-person training in Winnipeg.

Specifically, this training program will:

• Provide valuable knowledge from industry experts.
• Enable networking with professionals, opening doors to potential career opportunities in production.
• Provide financial support for food and transportation during the in-person training.
• Offer an allowance upon completion of part 2.
• Assist with travel and accommodation for non-Winnipeg residents.

The program is expertly led by advisor Lesley Oswald and manager Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill. Jeffrey St. Jules will serve as script advisor in part 1 and director mentor in part 2.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to jumpstart your career in the film and TV industry. Apply now and take the first step toward realizing your dreams!

NSI Intro to Production – Manitoba Edition is funded by Program Partner Manitoba Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund, Strategic Sponsors Telefilm Canada and Warner Bros. Discovery Access Canada, Provincial Sponsor Manitoba Film and Music, Industry Supporter On Screen Manitoba. Core Funders: Manitoba Sport, Culture and Heritage, the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council.

Further enquiries

• Media enquiries: Liz Hover – li*******@ns********.ca / 204-956-7800 EXT 104
• Application enquiries: Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill – sa****************@ns********.ca / 204-956-7800 EXT 107