Media Release: Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Foxtel Street TV shines the spotlight on young film talent
Creative short films from youths in crisis inspire others to live healthier lives
Students from Foxtel’s Street TV will take to the stage this evening to shine the light on a series of short films created as part of Foxtel’s annual program for disadvanged young people from The Salvation Army’s Oasis Youth Support Network.
The intense three month Street TV course provides a creative outlet for self-expression and is designed to help students by building their confidence while teaching them new skills in TV and film production. Each film is a unique artistic expression from the participants that have been inspired by the individual experiences of the students involved.
Now in its 14th year, Street TV is a collaboration between Foxtel and the Oasis Street Media Program that immerses students in every aspect of TV and film production from creative development, script drafting and sound editing to film direction and post production. Foxtel staff volunteers offer their time, talents and professional experience to help mentor students through their entire journey from concept to completion.
Foxtel will screen the final cut of each film this evening at a special gala event that celebrates the students and their creations. This year’s films are:
· Game Over?: Takes a look into the mental health of a gaming addict who struggles to separate himself from the gaming world in order to reconnect with family and friends;
· Rhythm of Life: Explores the power of music and the different ways people tap into it to create positive impacts on their lives; and
· Faded: Using stop-motion photography, Faded follows an individual’s personal journey of loss and the self-motiviation needed to achieve a happy outcome.
Bruce Meagher, Foxtel’s Group Director of Corporate Affairs, said, “Each year, the students from Street TV create thought-provoking films that delight and inspire and this year we’ve seen some truly remarkable storytelling from a talented group of courageous young people. We look forward to sharing the fruits of their hard work during our gala evening and shining the spotlight on their creations.”
Chris McKendrick, Oasis Youth Support Network Centre Manager said, “Street TV is one of the stand out programs across our network. It provides a structured, hands on learning environment led by experts in their field. Add to that opportunities for our young people to unlock hidden talents, express themselves, and grow towards future aspirations. Many thanks to the Foxtel staff volunteers for working so closely with us on this valuable experience.”
Street TV is part of Foxtel’s commitment to the community, which, since 2002, has supported youth, including long-term unemployed and those living on the streets. The program represents a longstanding partnership between Foxtel and Oasis and provides a supportive environment for young people to work alongside Foxtel employees to learn the art of film making.
By the end of this year’s program, Foxtel employees will have volunteered around 2000 hours helping the students create their films.
-Brad