Channel 4 Launches Pop Up

Channel 4 has launched C4 Pop Up – 4Talent's brand new national talent search aimed at attracting diverse groups of young people from socially disadvantaged backgrounds across the UK to a career in media.

The programme aims to tackle the increasing skills gaps within the creative industries, and the growth in 'bedroom creatives'.

4Talent, Channel 4's acclaimed industry talent scheme, is building on its award-winning 4Talent Days which have so far connected with 3000 young people since they launched four years ago. 92% of attendees said the days helped to focus their career progression.

C4 Pop Up will reach even deeper into communities this year to find 16-24 year olds who would not otherwise find their way to a career in the media. To achieve this 4Talent has partnered with specialist agency MyKindaCrowd to work with local creative companies, public services, social support partners and charity organisations to proactively seek groups of diverse young talent – from those who aren’t sure whether a media career could be for them, to those with creative talents but no identifiable route into the industry.

This new programme launches in Bournemouth on Saturday 9th May and aims to provide sustainable career opportunities and career progression for young people from the surrounding areas. Further events will be held this year in Norwich, London, Wolverhampton and Preston. The days will provide networking opportunities with local creative industries and skills workshops designed to improve attendees’ employability in TV and film - all leading towards industry work experience opportunities.

Details of an annual industry related challenge will ‘Pop Up’ at each event encouraging young people to compete to win a host of life changing industry prizes including access to courses and technical equipment. The challenges will enable competitors to work closely with TV commissioners and production companies to produce a tangible project e.g. a documentary or a game, in order to showcase their talents. Winners will be revealed at an end of year finale event at C4 HQ.

Challenges will become increasingly complex each year encouraging ongoing engagement and the formation of a Pop Up alumni that will connect diverse entry talent to the industry whilst providing virtual networking opportunities for young people across the UK.

(CD)