Indigenous Youth Mentorship in Film

We are seeking Indigenous youth (ages 18–30) to participate in a unique filmmaking mentorship program in concert with the upcoming feature film The Body Remembers When The World Broke Open, co-written and co-directed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers and Kathleen Hepburn.

Eligible youth are invited to apply for paid mentorships with one of the key creatives of the film (director, producer, cinematographer, production designers, etc.). Selected participants will gain invaluable on-the-job training, contacts, and direct mentorship from leading film professionals.

The ideal candidate will have a strong desire to improve their skills and ultimately pursue a career in filmmaking. No formal filmmaking experience is necessary, but some training is a plus.  Special consideration will be given to youth in care, or formerly in care

The program will run from mid-February 2018 until June 2018, with each different mentorship position having its own timeline. All production will take place in Vancouver — unceded xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Tsleil-Waututh territory.

To apply for the mentorship program, please click here to complete the online form.

The deadline to apply is Friday February 9, 2018.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:

• Self-Identifying Indigenous Youth (age 18-30)
• Interested in a career in filmmaking, and a strong drive to improve your skill-set in a particular field
• No experience necessary, but foundational knowledge/some education in film is a plus
• Special consideration will be given to youth in care, or formerly in care
•  Applicants must live in Vancouver or within commuting distance to be eligible.  Travel subsidy and cost of living are NOT covered by this mentorship

WHO WE ARE:

Directors: Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers and Kathleen Hepburn
Producers: Lori Lozinski and Tyler Hagan
Mentorship Program Coordinator: Alysha Seriani

ABOUT THE FILM:

Inspired by a very real and transformative moment in the co-director Elle-Máijá Tailfeather's life, The Body Remembers When The World Broke Open weaves an intricately complex, while at the same time very simple, story of a chance encounter between two Indigenous women with drastically different lived experience, navigating the aftermath of domestic abuse.  

Our intention with this film is to incite discourse around violence against women, racism, and social inequality. It will question our complacency in the face of such violence and the complications of how we react in its presence. Ultimately, the story draws from and brings attention to the strength and resilience of Indigenous women and girls.

Thank you.

The deadline to apply is Friday February 9, 2018.

For any questions or to receive a hard copy application form, 
please contact alyshaseriani@gmail.com

This program is made possible with the support of TELUS STORYHIVE, providing training and production grants for screen-based creators in western Canada.