ScreenSkills and the Film Skills Fund have opened applications for a second year of the inclusion programme, Film Forward. 
 

Launched in 2021, Film Forward aims to support change across the UK film industry, improving the diversity of productions by developing talented Black and Asian professionals as they make the next step in their careers.
 

The scheme matches professionals with at least five years of experience in a variety of behind-the-camera roles with paid-placement opportunities.

In addition, the candidates are given access to a bursary to assist with expenses needed to enable career progress.
 

Anita Overland, producer and chair of ScreenSkills Film Skills Council, said: “Film Forward is a greatly important programme for the industry. It puts a pathway in place for skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds to gain the experience of working at a higher level and providing them with the tools to take that crucial next step. It opens to door to an improved and diverse workplace for UK film production and helps highlight that film is an industry for everyone.”

 
Aamir Riaz was one of a cohort of 14 on the pilot programme. He said: “Film Forward gave me more confidence with being on set and getting to learn set etiquette. It also gave me the opportunity to demonstrate I have those skills and abilities and to show people that I knew what I was doing. 
 

“The thing Film Forward gave me most was an opportunity, an opportunity to meet people, shore up the knowledge I already have and create real in-person connections in the industry.”

 
Director Steve McQueen (pictured, above) emphasised: “Diversity behind the camera is just as important as it is in front of it. Film Forward is a vital step in the right direction to help improve our industry from within: providing the necessary support that allows a skilled workforce to develop, one that reflects our society.”

 
To find out more about Film Forward, click here.  

Steve McQueen image via CC FreeImages/Melony McGant.