Mentorship Program

Empowering emerging and mid-career industry professionals in above-the-line roles

Applications are open for both mentors and mentees

Program Overview

The On Screen Manitoba Mentorship Program empowers individuals in above-the-line roles, with a focus on developing under-represented individuals. This program offers customized mentorship by connecting emerging and mid-career individuals with established industry professionals.  

On Screen Manitoba is committed to enhancing career opportunities, fostering a diverse and skilled media production workforce, and promoting inclusivity, to create a more equitable creative landscape for Manitoba producers, directors and writers. 

Objectives:

  • Enhance career opportunities: Provide participants with the tools and resources needed to succeed in high-demand industry positions.

  • Promote inclusivity: Foster a learning environment that values diverse voices and perspectives in the media landscape.

  • Develop essential skills: Equip participants with the skills necessary for success in above-the-line roles.

Process

On Screen Manitoba’s Mentorship Program operates through a simple process:

  1. Application Submission
    Apply online to share your career goals and backgrounds.

  2. Review and Selection
    Our team reviews applications to determine specific needs and expertise.

  3. Mentorship Sessions
    Pairs schedule sessions at their convenience, focusing on skill development and industry insights.

  4. Ongoing Support
    Participants receive continuous support from our program team to enhance their experience.

  5. Reporting

    A customized reporting process tracks progress of both mentors and mentees.

Eligibility

On Screen Manitoba’s Mentorship Program is open to all qualified individuals with at least 2 years of practical industry experience in above-the-line roles, such as:

  • Producers and production companies

  • Filmmakers

  • Writers

  • Directors

We encourage applications from under-represented individuals, including those who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), women, and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals.

Important: This is not an internship, COOP or entry-level opportunity. If you are a student, we encourage you to explore other programs more suited to those at the beginning of their careers.

Participation Fees:

  • For OSM Members: Participation is included as a benefit of your membership.

    For Non-Members: Fees assessed based on program length. Subsidies are available. For more information, contact Maryam Decter, Workforce Development Manager, at maryam@onscreenmanitoba.com or 204.927.5898.

Not a member? Become a member today.

FAQ

What are the eligibility requirements?

To qualify for the Mentorship Program, applicants must be:

  • An emerging professional with 2 to 4 years of industry experience in an above-the-line role, or

  • A mid-career professional with 5 to 8 years of industry experience in an above-the-line role, and

  • Must be working in an above-the-line role (i.e., filmmaker, producer, writer, director)

Can students apply for this program?

The Mentorship Program is specifically designed for emerging and mid-career professionals who have already gained practical industry experience in above-the-line roles. It is not an internship, COOP or entry-level opportunity. If you are a student, we encourage you to explore other programs more suited to those at the beginning of their careers.

What skills can I develop through the Mentorship Program?
This program aims to help you enhance specific skills to advance your career in the industry. Examples of skills you can gain include:

  • For Producers

    • Navigating Tax Credits: Get clarity on tax credits and financial incentives available for your projects.

    • Budget Management: Learn how to create and manage a production budget effectively.

    • Funding Strategies: Explore various funding options and how to secure financing for your projects.

  • For Directors

    • Advanced Directing Techniques: Learn effective techniques for directing actors to elevate your productions.

    • Collaboration with Cinematographers: Understand how to effectively communicate your vision to cinematographers to achieve cohesive visual storytelling.

  • For Writers

    • Pitch Development: Discover how to craft a compelling pitch for your script that attracts market interest.

    • Collaborative Writing: Learn how to effectively collaborate with co-writers, producers, and directors, fostering a productive creative environment.

    • Nonlinear Storytelling: Master the art of nonlinear storytelling, experimenting with time jumps and multiple timelines

Is there a fee to apply?

There’s no application fee.

How are mentors matched with mentees?

Matches are based on individual goals and the mentors’ expertise. Applicants are encouraged to suggest a mentor partnership that best meets their learning needs.

How long is the program?

The duration of the program is completely customizable. The base mentorship program duration is 20 hours.

I want to be a mentor. Can I apply?

Yes, experienced professionals in above-the-line roles are encouraged to apply as mentors. There is a per-hour honorarium allocated for mentor compensation within the program. Mentors also benefit from contributing to the growth and diversity of the industry, building valuable connections, and supporting emerging and mid-career industry professionals.

If you would like more information on the Mentorship Program, please contact
Maryam Decter, Workforce Development Manager at maryam@onscreenmanitoba.com or 204.927.5898.

Feedback

  • "This mentorship is adapted to our needs. A virtual set up allows Josh (mentor) to be available to the Clarke (mentee) when she needs him while at the same time allowing the mentor to provide his services in a manner which works for him. The production is seeing the direct benefit."

    Richard Duffy
    First Assistant Director & Producer, The Millionaire Murderer

  • "I always embrace any opportunity to provide mentorship and support to those joining the film industry. These mentorships are crucial for creating a stronger, more collaborative industry together."

    Joshua Hood (Mentor)
    Writer and Producer

  • "Josh provided me with mentorship, support, and fielded any and every question I threw his way."

    Clarke Wayne (Mentee)

  • ""I love to have been asked to lead the pitch prep for the RBC $10,000 Emerging Filmmaker Competition two years running. Mentorship is my passion. I had great mentors, and I cherish getting to meet and work with emerging talent."

    Rebecca Gibson (Mentor)
    Writer, Director, Producer, Actor
    Partner/Co-Owner, Eagle Vision

  • "I have loved my experience thus far in this mentorship program. It has been just what I needed to level up my artistry on my path as an emerging filmmaker. The affirmation, challenge, connections, and confidence my mentor has given me have been priceless"

    Coby Friesen (Mentee)
    Filmmaker

  • "Getting to work with OSM to design a mentorship program tailored to our specific needs has been invaluable. It's allowed us to press the fast-forward button on a ton of learning, allowing us to quickly and effectively fill some key gaps in our skillset. We're now feeling confident and secure enough to pursue new genres and larger-scale projects, affording us the opportunity to widen our slate and take our company to the next step.

    Janelle Wookey (Mentee)
    Producer