Sony Pictures Television launches a diverse directors program.

Sony Pictures Television will provide aspiring directors the opportunity to follow established TV directors on various Sony Pictures TV series. 

The President of Sony Pictures Television, Steve Mosko said “The Diverse Directors Program will provide access and training to promising future directors and at the same time provide us with new, emerging talent behind the camera with various points of view.”

Aspiring directors can submit their productions online from May 23rd until June 6 or until 500 applications are received.

According to Deadline, candidates must submit one completed example of a past directing project, letters of recommendation from entertainment industry professionals and an interview.

Of those 500 applicants, 20 semi-finalists will take part in a directing workshop and attend networking events.

Workshops for the Sony Television Pictures Directors Program is set to begin in June and will center on instruction from working directors and production professionals.

Of those 20 semi-finalists, three will have an opportunity to shadow TV directors on various scenes and receive a weekly stipend. Participants will also be invited back to direct an episode of a scripted TV series the following season.

Diversity on all levels is a central focus to many of our programs,” said Paul Martin, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer at Sony Pictures Entertainment, “and we fully believe that the Diverse Directors Program will not only provide access and experience to a diverse group of potential directors but will also become a key component of Sony Pictures’ business strategy.”