YMP Participants: Jesse Polito, Marisa Schorno, Nathan Hamilton, Annie Becker, Raven Mills, Joshua Vandale, Cameron Masterton, Kelsey Watts, Andy Bayrak
video screening at CVAG Friday, May 9, 9pm
video screening at Filberg Centre Thursday, May 22
Media Facilitator: Mary Alice
How do you imagine the future of the Comox Valley? Over nine weeks a team of Comox Valley Youth have been immersed in learning digital media-making and employability skills at the Comox Valley Art Gallery, resulting in a collection of original videos which dare to imagine a bold and original future for the Comox Valley. The second session of the Youth Media Project (YMP), sponsored by the Comox Valley Art Gallery through the Government of Canada’s Skills Link Program, has provided a range of new skills training for nine youth who face barriers to employment. The YMP featured workshops with guest media-makers as well as from the project partners: The Wachiay Friendship Center, Imagine Comox Valley and the Creative Employment Access Society.
Throughout the project, youth received training in digital video production and post-production, graphic design and animation through the Comox Valley Art Gallery’s media lab, and were engaged with key community leaders in discussions surrounding social justice, cultural heritage and community participation. Alongside the video, participants developed employment action-plans and resume/portfolios. By completing the program activities, youth have experienced reduced barriers to employment and increased ability to enter and participate in the labour market.