Mediabox - Unlocking The Creative Talent of Young people
Mediabox
Mediabox, the £6 million fund that offers disadvantaged young people aged 13-19 years old the chance to make their own media projects, is now launched. The application process is ongoing until January 2008 and both young people and organisations working with young people are invited to apply for grants.
All types of media projects, from film and tv, radio, print, multi media and web can be funded, provided that young people are at the heart of the project.
The aim of Mediabox, which is funded by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES), is to offer young people who do not usually have such opportunities the chance to create and produce a media project. It is designed as a platform for young people to voice their opinions on issues important to them and equip them with invaluable industry skills.
Young people can apply for grants of up to £1000 and organisations can apply for up to £80,000 for youth-led media projects.
Minister for Children, Young People and Families Beverley Hughes said: “Mediabox is a fantastic opportunity for young people to get some hands-on experience in one of our growing industries, to talk about their lives and hopes and to showcase what they are capable of. We have consulted young people extensively and they have told us about a lack of things to do and places to go. We have listened to those views and our Youth Matters agenda is all about creating opportunities that empower them to make decisions, contribute to society and give them a stake in this country’s future. This is not just about improving the lives of young people but also securing the future success of our country.”
Former Chief Executive of News and Regions, ITV and Chairman of Mediabox Clive Jones, said: “These grants will provide an opportunity for some really talented young people who may not have the formal qualifications that would traditionally get you into a web, film or TV company or a magazine.”
Following project completion, Mediabox will help promote and distribute it on the relevant platform, allowing young people’s work to be seen by the widest possible audience.
The Mediabox website, www.media-box.co.uk contains guidelines on how to apply for funding, application forms and examples of completed projects. It also contains a section for those who have been awarded grants, comprising a detailed but youth-friendly toolkit on all aspects of project making, from budget control through to credit guidelines and marketing advice.
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