PROVINCIAL CONTRIBUTION GIVES VOICE TO ABORIGINAL STORYTELLERS

An initiative aimed at mentoring aspiring filmmakers of Aboriginal ancestry has received a $20,000 boost from the province.

First Stories: Saskatchewan is a partnership between SaskFilm, the National Film Board (NFB) Prairie Center, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and Saskatchewan Communications Network (SCN). Following the success of a similar program in Manitoba last year, First Stories offers up to 15 emerging filmmakers from Aboriginal communities a week of hands-on training, skills enhancement and mentorship from experienced filmmakers from across Canada.

"Storytelling has long been a fundamental aspect of Aboriginal cultures," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel said. "The province is very pleased to support this exciting initiative that will equip emerging storytellers with the tools and training to keep telling their stories via documentary filmmaking."

First Nation, Métis or Inuit residents of Saskatchewan, 18 years of age or older, who are interested in Aboriginal social issues can apply. The successful applicants will be trained in research, proposal and narration writing, cinematography, directing and all aspects of post-production.

"Storytelling is so much more than simple entertainment," Hagel said. "It's also about sharing experiences and perspectives that ultimately leads to a greater understanding and appreciation of the wonderful diversity that we have here in Saskatchewan."

For more information about First Stories: Saskatchewan or to apply, visit www.nfb.ca/firststories or at www.saskfilm.com and select "Programs/Policies". Applications must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 26th, 2006.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Janet Peters Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4967

Kerry Fraser SaskFilm Regina Phone: (306) 798-7980