Applications for BCOMS masterclass programme are now open, as the highly praised initiative returns for 2021 this time with Nike and Facebook on-board.
The programme is open to young people aged between 16 – 25 from underrepresented groups in the sports media who aspire to work in the industry.
The masterclasses will provide a range of incredible opportunities for successful applicants to develop practical skills, build an industry network and gain real-world experience of the sports media.
Whether applicants see themselves in front of the camera hosting a show, writing a piece for a national newspaper, directing cameras at sporting events or leading the social media strategy around a big tournament, BCOMS masterclass programme is a great avenue to develop and help build a career.
Since the programme kicked off in 2018 graduates include Fadumo Olow, (Daily Telegraph), Mayowa Quadri, (Versus), Chelsea Harper, (UEFA), as well as Art De Roche, Ahmed Shooble and Ali Humuyuan all now working for The Athletic. Meanwhile, Keanu Rattray, Marva Kreel, Anish Dogra and Aarayaman Banerji have all earned work opportunities with The FA and England. These are just a few of the success stories from the initiative.
Successful applicants will have broadcasters Hugh Woozencrooft and Jeanette Kwakye as their course tutors across the year and alongside this will be work with leading journalists, presenters, producers, directors, camera operators, photographers and media outlets from across the industry, gaining unique access to the biggest and best talent in the sports media.
There will also be opportunities to attend and cover a variety of events as part of the programme.
To submit an application for this programme we would simply like to know ‘Why you would like to be on the programme.’
Applicants can submit this in any format they choose – but written copy must not exceed 200 words and audio/visual files must be no longer than a 1 minute duration. All applicants must also send an example(s) of some their work and CV to: ashanti@timetorefresh.co.uk
The deadline for this application is: Sunday 16th May
Successful applicants admitted to the programme must commit to attending all 15 sessions in the programme whether virtual or in-person.
Please also note that sessions will all be held on weekday evenings.
Drew Christie, BCOMS Chair, said: “It’s fantastic for BCOMS to be able to get the ball rolling on our third Masterclass programme. The young, diverse talent that we’ve helped to nurture are already making their mark in our industry and changing the face of the UK sports media for the better.
“Working together with Nike and Facebook will allow us to offer the best BCOMS Masterclass experience yet. I’d urge talented young people with the drive and determination to build a successful career in sports media to take that step and apply now.”
BCOMS founder, Leon Mann, added: “Leaders in the sports media have been speaking publicly about their desire to see a more diverse industry a lot since the Black Lives Matter protests last year. We are committed to preparing our talented young people so they are able to walk through the doors of the sports media and thrive.
“We are delighted to welcome Facebook and Nike to the BCOMS masterclass programme. Their support will help us make a bigger impact and give the successful applicants a life changing experience that ultimately helps them go forward into the sports industry ready to succeed.”
