Ad Industry achievers help NSW rural kids get their start in the arts via A Start in Life initiative

A Start in Life, in collaboration with Charles Sturt University, is launching a project to introduce students from rural and regional NSW to creative and arts-based industries, and encourage them to undertake tertiary education.

Thirty five students from the Central West and Central Tablelands will participate in ‘A Start in the Arts’ at the CSU School of Communication and Creative Industries in Bathurst for 4 days in April. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of advertising, broadcast and print journalism, radio production and video editing.

The following notable industry achievers are attending: Ben Welsh (left), executive creative director, M&C Saatchi; Justin Graham, strategic planning director, Droga 5; Chris Berents, senior copywriter, Droga 5; AFI nominee Cheree Cassidy (Underbelly: The Golden Mile); Magdalena Roze, reporter, The Weather Channel and 4BC QLD; and Adam Wareham, freelance director.

These professionals are generously donating their time to workshop with these children, to inspire and mentor them in their field of expertise. They will share with the students ‘who gave them their Start in Life’.

“Advertising thrives on diversity. Unfortunately most people in the industry are cut from the same metropolitan cloth. ‘A Start in Life’ offers opportunities for those keen and able to correct that, and find themselves in an exciting and inspirational career,” says Ben Welsh, ECD of M&C Saatchi.

Associate Head of the CSU School of Communication and Creative Industries, Dr Peter Simmons, said the camp is an opportunity to give regional students a glimpse into the exciting field of creative industries: “Lecturers are also very keen to show students the high-quality creative courses and facilities available in the school. Students will work in the School’s TV and radio studios, and also spend a day in our student advertising agency Kajulu.”

A Start in Life charity has been helping Aussie kids for over 85 years, providing disadvantaged, struggling children and their families the support that they so desperately need to have a well- rounded and fulfilling education.

“We believe creativity needs to be sought, encouraged and nurtured. We believe location should not hinder opportunity or create a barrier to entry for any talented young Australian. In conjunction with the incredible support we have received we are thrilled to be able to offer these kids this opportunity,” says Susan Williams, CEO, A Start in Life.

A Start in the Arts, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst Campus

Friday 15th April. 9.30am – 12.30pm