The Network Launches the search for the Next Gen of TV Talent!
2008 Applications now open.

FREE industry led scheme helps young people kick start their TV careers
Applications sought via: www.mgeitf.co.uk/thenetwork

The Network, previously known as Television and Young People (TVYP), has opened applications for its FREE event in Edinburgh in August 2008. Over five days, Networkers get to meet the best talent from behind and in front of the camera and come away with new skills, contacts and advice.  Previous experience is not necessary, just a passion for television.

The Network has helped to launch hundreds of TV careers and past delegates now work across the industry in a variety of roles including the executive producer of Dragons Den, the director of Blue Peter and a presenter on XFM.

The Network, part of the Edinburgh International Television Festival, givesdelegates access to some of the top talent working in TV today. Past speakers have ranged from celebrities such as Vernon Kay, Kate Garraway, Graham Norton, Simon Amstell and Sir Trevor McDonald as well as leading industry figures including Dr Who writer Russell T Davies and newscaster Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

Past delegate Kathleen Beedles , Drama Producer at ITV says “Since working in the industry, I have realised that it’s both “who you know” and “what you know” that count, and this is why initiatives such as The Network are invaluable for young new talent starting out. When I attended The Network it was the first time I’d met any industry professionals and I came away with the belief that ordinary people like me could get into TV. It also taught me both practicalities and gave me an ‘in’ with industry professionals. I had got that all important ‘foot in the door’ and now years later I can see the benefit of the initiative from a professional stand point, as a way of discovering exciting new talent.”

Thousands of applicants each year are whittled down to a lucky 150 delegates who get the chance to attend the FREE event, which this year takes place between Thrusday 21st and Monday 25th August 2008.

Applications via the website www.mgeitf.co.uk/thenetwork are open now and close on Wednesday 21st May 2008. Delegates who have attended The Network are also given the opportunity to apply for a six month paid work placement at some of the most prestigious TV companies in the UK through the The Network at Work programme.