Amazon Studios and Howard University have announced the launch of a new programme designed to diversify the entertainment industry by creating a talent pipeline for African American, Latinx, Native American and other ‘marginalised’ communities.
Starting in January 2020, the Howard Entertainment programme offers aspiring entertainment executives, a ‘unique interdisciplinary curriculum’, which combines study and training, with hands-on work experience, as well as the opportunity to network alongside Amazon Studios’ industry partners.
“Amazon Studios has been working to create new pathways into the industry for talented students of all backgrounds and we are proud to team with Howard on this new programme supporting aspiring entertainment leaders,” said Jennifer Salke, Head of Amazon Studios. “As we strive to delight our Prime Video customers, we’re ensuring there are diverse perspectives and experiences around the table to help us make the best decisions in all aspects of the business.”
PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION
“This programme is all about intentionality – being intentional about increasing and preparing the next generation of African American, Latinx and Native American storytellers, casts, crew, and executives working on these projects,” added Latasha Gillespie, Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Amazon Studios.
According to the Howard University’s President Wayne A. I. Frederick, the Howard Entertainment vision is to offer a ‘one-of-a-kind’ experience for students interested in all aspects of entertainment, from project greenlighting, to PR and marketing, to entertainment law and finance.
Photo credit: Howard University
“This relationship aligns with Howard’s strategic goals of enhancing academic excellence and inspiring new knowledge. Collaborating with Amazon Studios will enable us to marry academia and industry efforts to build a robust workforce of diverse entertainment industry leaders,” explained Frederick. “With Howard’s proven track record of developing some of Hollywood’s most notable actors, comedians and musicians, this next level collaboration will enable us to have even greater impact.”
‘IMMERSIVE’ EXPERIENCE
Based in Los Angeles, the ‘immersive’ two-semester experience, will provide students the opportunity to be engaged in projects that offer ‘real world’ application, which will help students to develop ‘work ready’ skills prior to graduating, as well as hone entrepreneurial skills. Students will be taught by the university’s faculty, who will be supported by Amazon Studios’ employees and industry professionals.
Students will have to engage in a competitive process to be considered for the programme, confirmed the university. To apply, students must be enrolled as a Howard University student, be an upperclassman or a graduate student.
To find out more about the programme or apply, email: HowardEntertainment@howard.edu
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