The Wedding is a new six-part series for BBC Scotland from acclaimed filmmaker Stewart Kyasimire which tells the story of a Scots/African wedding through a series of intertwined monologues.
A shadowing and training scheme took place on the production, which was shot in Glasgow in September 2022, to provide currently under-represented groups in Scotland the chance to step up in the film and TV industry.
The scheme was devised by Re:frame, a commercial ethnic minority talent pool headed up by Kyasimire to address the lack of diversity in Scotland’s screen sector through talent matching and talent development.
Screen Scotland provided funding, matched by BBC Scotland, to support the shadowing and training scheme with further support provided by Scotland-based training providers Screen NETS.
The scheme gave 11 individuals from under-represented backgrounds in the screen sector the chance to work on the production across a range of filmmaking departments, allowing them to develop their talents in a thriving production environment.
We spoke to four of the trainees on the set of The Wedding to find out more about their experience on the scheme.
Trainees reflect on their experience on The Wedding
Each participant on the scheme was partnered with an experienced production crew member and received bespoke training in their area of interest including production management, script supervising, storytelling and camera operating.
The scheme provided a significant opportunity for the trainees to step up within their chosen department and gain the experience needed to kickstart their careers within Scotland’s film and TV industry.
Speaking on the scheme, Stewart Kyasimire said, "It was a unique experience working on set with so many people who looked like me. Working in the industry for several years, this was definitely a one of a kind experience. I would encourage all Scottish productions to introduce shadowing and training schemes on set as it provides invaluable experience for emerging talent. Through our diverse talent development platform Re:frame, we look forward to continuing to support the trainees to step up within the industry."
The Wedding has been produced for BBC Scotland by Create Anything, in association with Hopscotch Films, with support from Screen Scotland.
The Wedding is on BBC iPlayer from October 24 and will air on BBC Scotland at a later date.