Patron Programme

A woman in a dark red leather waistcoat and trousers sat on a high stool being interviewed by a blonde woman wearing an all white outfit. — Credit: BAFTA/Marco Bahler

BAFTA is globally renowned for celebrating excellence and championing creativity through our Awards. But that is just part of our story.

As an independent arts charity, and a leading academy for the screen arts, we work year-round to identify and tackle barriers to opportunity, ensuring young people can enter and progress in our industries.

Become a BAFTA patron

Our work is only possible thanks to the vison and commitment of our patrons. They are our inner circle of supporters who believe in the power of storytelling to change lives.

In recognition for their generous support of our work, our patrons receive special access and coveted invitations throughout the year. As a patron you will be able to:

Meet leading lights of the industry

Receive invitations to high-profile events, private Q&As and receptions, with a chance to be inspired and entertained by the extraordinary experiences of leading talent.
Get closer to the talent of tomorrow

Connect with rising stars and participants from BAFTA’s learning and talent development programmes.
Go behind the scenes at BAFTA

Get an insight into the work of BAFTA and the wider screen industries from those shaping the industry and driving positive change.
And much, much more…

Join as a BAFTA Patron

To find out more about our different patron levels, and to hear more about the unique events, benefits and access that our patrons enjoy please contact the fundraising team.

Q & A with Bill Nighy

BAFTA-winning actor Bill Nighy gave an incredible insight into his career, from his early television appearances to his pivotal roles on the big screen.
Panel discussion with Thea Sharrock, Alexandra Derbyshire and Krysty Wilson-Cairns

Director Thea Sharrock, producer Alex Derbyshire, and screenwriter Krysty Wilson-Cairns explored the myriad of roles and expertise that go into making today's most popular films.
An evening with James Ivory & Friends

James Ivory was joined by actors Helena Bonham-Carter, Rupert Graves and James Wilby, screenwriter Kazuo Ishiguro, costume designer Jenny Beaven and cinematographer Tony Pierce-Roberts, to explore his classic literary adaptations that have touched generations of audiences.
Q & A with Paapa Essiedu

BAFTA-nominated actor and former BAFTA Breakthrough Paapa Essiedu delved into his remarkable career spanning stage and screen, along with the impact that Breakthrough had on him personally and professionally.

Seth Daood. A man with short dark hair wearing a white t-shirt with green shirt over the top. — Credit: BAFTA/Scott Garfitt

Gaining skills that enable career progression

Seth Daood, a Wildlife Filmmaker received a Prince William BAFTA Bursary in 2023 and used it towards driving lessons.

He said: “Working in Wildlife TV opens you up to the possibility to exploring all sorts of hidden gems across the globe... but the issue is getting there! I haven't been able to afford driving lessons, but thanks to BAFTA I will now have this vital skill that will allow me to progress in my career. Being able to drive will not only allow me to explore these new places, but it will give me access to opportunities that can progress my career further than I would have otherwise been able to, and I am incredibly grateful for the support and opportunity to do that.

“In my field there can be some pretty remote places to get to, and without being able to drive there, it means you can miss out on opportunities. I am really grateful that I now have the skills which will allow me to take my career further, and that I will be able to apply to a broader range of jobs now”.

In 2024 Seth also attended an event at BAFTA where he had the opportunity to meet with HRH The Prince of Wales. The event brought together bursary recipients, industry practitioners, and supporters of the programme to celebrate BAFTA’s support of over 150 recipients since 2021.

He has also had the opportunity to speak to writer, director, producer and actor Stephen Merchant, discussing his entry to the industry and how the Prince William BAFTA Bursary has opened up opportunities for the wildlife filmmaker.

Find out about our Scholarships and Bursaries