The 2017 ACCESS@AIDC program will see participants mentored by the likes of Jen Peedom, Kelrick Martin and Donovan Chan. (Photo credit: Eliza Bell)
The Australian International Documentary Conference (AIDC) has opened applications for its early career mentorship program, ACCESS@AIDC, to be held during the conference next March.
Now in its fourth year, ACCESS@AIDC aims to provide career pathways for early career documentary, factual and unscripted filmmakers.
Successful applicants will attend exclusive mentorship sessions with AIDC guests and industry professionals including Sherpa director Jennifer Peedom, ABC TV’s Head of Indigenous Kelrick Martin and Beach House Picture’s creative director Donovan Chan.
“We’re extremely lucky to have some of the industry’s best creatives participating in AIDC 2017’s ACCESS program,” said AIDC CEO Britt Arthur.
“Donovan, Jen and Kelrick have a host of high calibre productions to their name, and they are very generous filmmakers. I have no doubt that this year’s participants will benefit greatly from their mentorship. We’ll also be announcing three more high-profile mentors as part of our launch on Tuesday November 8.”
One participant will also receive a four-week paid internship with Beach House Pictures (Singapore), including return airfare and accommodation.
“We have long admired AIDC’s efforts in connecting content creators and promoting the industry, so it’s exciting to deepen our relationship by supporting this year’s ACCESS program,” said Chan.
“With over 70 hours of international content produced yearly across all of our territories, this year’s winner can expect to immerse themselves in a rich production environment and receive some hands-on action on one of our projects.”
Nicole Miller, last year’s winner, is currently undertaking a four-week paid internship at Pulse Films UK in London.
“Being part of the ACCESS@AIDC program and receiving the internship at Pulse films in London has so far proved to be an illuminating and inspiring development opportunity,” said Miller.
“Gaining insight into a multi-faceted international company has helped me understand the skills and workings of the wider industry. Its value to an early career filmmaker is incredible.”
All selected ACCESS program participants will receive six Mentor Sessions across AIDC and an All-Access Pass at the Earlybird Discount rate to attend all AIDC Sessions, Marketplace activities, and The FACTory pitching forum.
To enter, applicants must send a one-minute video pitch articulating why should they be selected for the program to info@aidc.com.au via Dropbox or secure Vimeo link.
Applications for ACCESS@AIDC close 5pm Tuesday 20 December 2016.
More information about the application process can be found at www.aidc.com.au/get-involved/accessaidc
AIDC 2017 takes place March 5 – 8 at ACMI Melbourne.