YouTube creates global production program to support female filmmakers
YouTube is offering enhanced support for female filmmakers in the form of two new initiatives which will see it introduce a global production program and partner with the United Nations (UN).
This will see the streaming service champion female voices by supporting women behind the camera as well as those in front of the lens as part of the YouTube 'Spaces' program.
Six prominent YouTube creators; Anna Akana (US); Alexys Fleming (US); Julia Veiga Faria (Brazil); Em Ford (UK); Nilam Farooq (Germany) and Kuma Miki (Japan) have already filmed over 50 videos pertaining to everything from original scripted content to women’s issues and tributes to female leaders for this project.
Speaking to the Hollywood Reporter YouTube chief executive Susan Wojcicki said: "YouTube has always been a platform where women of all ages and backgrounds can find their voice and tell their stories.
"Through our global YouTube Spaces program and new partnership with the UN, we'll strengthen female voices on YouTube and around the world."
Separately the Google-owned platform will also partner with the UN to support a group of female ‘change ambassadors’ year-long initiative promoting gender equality.
This will see Ingrid Nilsen, Jackie Aina, Yuya, Taty Ferreira, Hayla Ghazal, Louise Pentland, and Chika Yoshida work with the UN’s sustainable development action campaign by creating videos supporting gender equality.