The BC Film Commission in Creative BC has expanded its crew workforce development initiatives through two free virtual workplace training programs.

The Inclusive Leadership Program is a two-day workshop to help leaders and supervisors create respectful, safe and inclusive workplaces. It includes training on harassment, discrimination, conflict resolution, cultural awareness and unconscious bias.

The Inclusive Workplaces for Workers Program equips new and experienced workers with an understanding of their responsibilities for fostering safe workplace practices on set. The training is also available to students.

Both programs are written and facilitated by Natasha Tony, CEO of Vancouver-based labour regulations consultancy firm Elevate Inclusion Strategies. They are part of the Creative Pathways workforce strategy, designed to improve the level of representation of crews in the B.C. screen sector.

Eligible participants are able to register for fall sessions on the Creative Pathways website, with winter and spring sessions to be announced at a later date.

“Our commitment to fostering a diverse workforce in the film industry requires a realistic understanding of the steps necessary to maintain this diversity,” said Tony in a statement. “We believe that professional development and skills-building focused on inclusion is essential in sustaining the momentum towards a more equitable representation of creators and workers.”

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