12 June 2006
The innovative Protege Project run by Monash South Africa's Film and Television Unit last month began training its fourth group of aspiring filmmakers.
The Protege Project was developed three years ago, by ex South African Broadcasting Corporation board member and award winning filmmaker Dr Melanie Chait. It is aimed at training practitioners within the sector who have either not had the opportunity to enter into tertiary education, or cross over into affiliated fields.
Having experienced independent filmmaking and understanding the mechanics and needs of broadcasters, Dr Chait designed training to address the skills shortages.
Her strategy included making fully-sponsored world-class training available to disadvantaged yet talented individuals.
The Protege Project's highly intensive, accelerated skills programs helps participants to compete against others from a more advantaged background.
Due to significant results on the previous three Protege Projects run during 2004 and 2005, the South African Department of Arts and Culture recognised the need to extend its funding to a fourth Protege Project.
"We are so proud to be at the cutting edge of transformation in the industry," Dr Chait said. "Those who have completed our course have an average of 85 per cent employment rate and the lowest attrition rate in the country."
The full-time course runs for three months. In addition to full bursaries, the participants receive a stipend for the duration of the course. Generous budgets are also provided for the documentaries and dramas that are produced during this time.
For those wanting to take part in a Protege Project, competition is tough. From more than 200 applications received only 55 make the shortlist. After individual interviews with a panel of experts, 20 people are selected to participate in the course.
Protege participants cover scriptwriting, producing and directing, in addition to the technical aspects of camera, lighting, sound and editing.
Last month's special guest appearance by Tsotsi producer Mr Paul Raleigh created much excitement and motivation among course participants, Dr Chair said. "By attracting the industry's top talent to tutor, we are ensuring that our students are getting the best up-to-date knowledge in a practical and effective environment, with the added benefit of being able to network with professionals usually out of reach for emerging talent."
The Monash Film and TV Unit won a Silver Impumulelo Award in December 2005 for its innovative work in the field of poverty reduction and community development. The award acknowledged the unit's contribution to public life in South Africa. | 
