The NSI Aboriginal Cultural Trade Initiative is an ambitious three phase training program designed to help Canadian Aboriginal producers advance their projects as co-productions with producers in New Zealand and Australia. The NSI Aboriginal Cultural Trade Initiative is an ambitious three phase training program designed to help Canadian Aboriginal producers advance their projects as co-productions with producers in New Zealand and Australia.

NSI invites Canadian Aboriginal film and television producers interested in
the Aboriginal Cultural Trade Initiative to visit
www.nsi-canada.ca/aboriginal for application and program criteria available
for download. The deadline for submissions is December 1, 2003.

A range of advanced professional and project development opportunities, including a 10-day Export Mission to both countries, are provided as key components of the program. Opportunities will also exist for participants to meet with potential buyers of existing, completed projects. Costs for travel, accommodation and per diem are covered by the program.

In this inaugural year, up to 10 producers from across Canada will be selected for the NSI Aboriginal Cultural Initiative. The participants will receive customized training and direction, through the leadership of NSI Aboriginal Cultural Initiative Program Manager Judith McCann.

What are the objectives of the NSI Aboriginal Cultural Trade Initiative?

The NSI Aboriginal Cultural Trade Initiative will provide experienced aboriginal film and television producers, and, along with writer/directors working with them, with guidance and access necessary to research, structure and identify potential co-production partners and co-venture opportunities, and on building business relationships necessary to move their projects into production.

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NSI plans to launch NSI Aboriginal Youth Pilot Project

NSI - Canada is developing an ambitious pilot program, for aboriginal youth in a northern Manitoba community. Selected aboriginal youth, who are interested in film and television careers, will receive an overview of the industry including career information, workshops, seminars, customized skills development sessions and hands-on production workshops. Participants will be encouraged to develop personal stories that reflect their language, culture and unique experiences. The initiative will culminate with an industry internship placement with a production company or broadcaster.

What are the objectives of NSI Aboriginal Youth Pilot Project?

The program is designed to deliver three possible outcomes, or combination of outcomes, for participants: further pursuit of independent filmmaking; post-secondary education or advanced training in film/video production; and entry-level employment in the film and television industry.

This pilot project will serve as a prototype for a national entry-level film and television program for aboriginal Canadian youth.