The BAFTA Elevate programme is supported by dunhill
BAFTA Partners

BAFTA Elevate

Empowering individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to reach the next stage of their career. 

The BAFTA Elevate programme is supported by dunhill, with additional support from Banijay UK.

A composite images of various Elevate events and the programme participants through the years.
Credit: BAFTA
Elevate events and programme participants through the years.

Looking to take the next step in your career? Having the opportunity to rise up and have agency as you build a sustainable career in the creative industry is vital.

Aimed at those working at mid-senior levels within the industry, BAFTA Elevate is a bespoke programme of professional development offering mentoring, tailored masterclasses and networking opportunities. It forms a core part of our charity’s vision that people from all backgrounds will have opportunities to thrive in the screen industries.

Now in its fifth edition, the programme continues to shine a spotlight on talent from underrepresented backgrounds. The current cohort is supporting individuals working within documentary and specialist factual.

Meet the latest cohort

Who is Elevate for?

Our current cohort is focused on development producers, producers, directors and producer-directors from underrepresented groups within the industry seeking to progress across documentary and specialist factual. This includes those from minority ethnic, disabled and/or low socio-economic backgrounds.

Previous groups we have supported include:

  • Producers – 2022
  • Actors – 2019
  • Writers – 2018
  • Female Directors – 2017

Meet previous Elevate cohorts Number of items shown:(4)

Why Elevate matters

Elevate is part of a continued commitment to breaking down barriers within the creative arts.

In developing key leadership skills and providing tools to navigate challenges within the industry, we aim to enable you to strengthen your networks and play your part in encouraging a more inclusive screen industry for all.

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Elevate practitioners to date

FAQs

  • The current programme runs through to the end of 2026. Your next opportunity to apply will likely be in autumn/winter 2026. Please keep an eye out for announcements.

  • The eligibility criteria for each Elevate cohort is determined through industry consultation, following an extensive period of research. Please check the application form for specific criteria in the year you apply.

    Usually, we look for mid-senior level industry practitioners working in film and/or television who, at the time of application:

    • Are aged 18 or over
    • Are working in the UK
    • Have been primarily living in the UK
    • Are from one of the underrepresented backgrounds identified and have faced barriers to career progression

    If you have any queries about your eligibility, please check with the team by emailing [email protected].

  • Elevate is an industry-level programme, focused on supporting those who have been working in the industry for a significant amount of time. This does not include entry level or junior levels.

  • We recognise applicants from underrepresented groups often face challenge to career progression and may not have had the same access to opportunities for professional development.

    Our definition of ‘underrepresented backgrounds’ for Elevate is determined through industry consultation, following an extensive period of research, which includes industry reporting.

  • Yes. You can apply as long as you primarily live in the UK and are working in the UK screen industries.

  • No. It is free to apply, be considered and take part in the Elevate programme.

  • The current Elevate programme will run for two years (January 2025 – December 2026).

  • By entering the programme, you agree to participate in Elevate activity and announcements as required.

    If you are a successful applicant, you need to commit to attending and participating in the sessions that form the programme, whether online or in person (in person is preferred). We understand everyone has both work and life commitments to balance but we would expect participants to prioritise Elevate, where possible. This is so that you can benefit fully from the programme.

    You also agree to be named in the media and to participate in promotional and press activities before, during and after the event.

Supporting Talent Updates Number of items shown:(12)

Explore our other programmes
Progress your Career
The BAFTA Elevate programme is supported by dunhill
BAFTA Partners

Official Partner: EE British Academy Film Awards
Supporting Partner: BAFTA Elevate

dunhill is the foremost British men’s luxury House with a history spanning over 130 years and storied legacy celebrating British filmmaking and screen culture.

A trusted destination of elevation, classicism and hedonism, dunhill offers a full lifestyle proposition, from refined tailoring and ready-to-wear, to elevated leather goods, exquisite gifting and hard luxury pieces. Leveraging a unique heritage and rich archive, dunhill ensures uncompromising quality that endures time and trends – echoing the pioneering spirit of founder, Alfred Dunhill. Innovation and contemporaneity have always been integral to the House – from its inception in 1893 to the present day and beyond.