NSI FILMEXCHANGE LAUNCHES OUTREACH PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS

The National Screen Institute – Canada (NSI) in association with Human Resources Development Canada is pleased to announce the return of its two popular outreach programs for students and young adults, during NSI FilmExchange Canadian Film Festival – Canada’s Coolest Film Festival, March 2 to 6 in Winnipeg.

NSI invites young Canadians aged 18 to 29, interested in pursuing a career in the film industry and who are not currently working full time or attending school, to apply for the HRDC NSI FilmExchange Outreach Program.

Up to 30 selected applicants to this free program will have the opportunity to participate at NSI FilmExchange Canadian Film Festival March 2 – 6 in Winnipeg, as a full delegate, attending sessions and screenings along side some of Canada’s most renowned television and filmmakers.

NSI program coordinators will provide individual support that will assist participants in developing basic employment skills as well as provide an opportunity to gain experience directly related to the film industry. Visit http://www.nsi-canada.ca/filmexchange/general_application.html for more information and to download an application form. Deadline for applications is February 24, 2004, 4:30 p.m. Central Time.

“Providing opportunities for young Canadians interested in the film industry is a priority for NSI,” said NSI FilmExchange Festival Director Bill Evans. “It’s always rewarding to find out about past participants of the programs who have gone on to work in the film and television business.”

NSI invites teachers to bring their students for an afternoon of short films during the Showcase of Canadian Shorts, held Wednesday to Saturday, March 3 to 6, from 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. at the Globe Theatre, Portage Place. This free initiative is dedicated to introducing a new generation of filmgoers to the best in Canadian cinema through educational screenings by local and national filmmakers. After each film writers, directors or producers will be present to discuss their projects and answer audience questions.

If your school would like to participate in the NSI Outreach Program, please call Anastasia Babynec at 956-7800 ext. 207 or email anastasia.babynec@nsi-canada.ca to indicate your interest and to receive a schedule of short films. Schools and organizations are responsible for transportation to and from the Globe Cinema. Visit http://www.nsi-canada.ca/filmexchange/general_application.html for more details.

The Manitoba Film Board will rate all films. Only films deemed General Audience or Parental Accompaniment will be screened for students. NSI FilmExchange is proud to offer the Youth Outreach Program. Sponsored by Human Resources Development Canada.

The National Screen Institute – Canada, with headquarters in Winnipeg, is one of Canada’s four nationally recognized film and television training schools. Every March in Winnipeg, NSI presents NSI FilmExchange Canadian Film Festival, the largest established film festival showcasing 100% Canadian film.

The National Screen Institute – Canada operates with ongoing funding from Telefilm Canada through Canadian Heritage, and Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism. Additional support provided by Patrons: Global Television Network, CTV and CBC Television. Further support provided by our Partners: Alliance Atlantis and Warner Bros. Canada Inc.