TV presenter AJ Odudu is the new ambassador for the RTS bursary schemes, which are now accepting applications for 2024.
The Big Brother host will meet and mentor scholars and attend bursaries events.
She said: “As someone who worked their way up and started my career with no connections in the TV industry, coming from a working-class background in Blackburn to finding my feet in the industry, I know how important being supported by such a prestigious institution will be for the recipients.
“I look forward to meeting the talented students and hearing all about their aspirations for the future.”
Over 10 years, bursary schemes have supported 350 students, of whom 82% have gone on to forge careers in TV and the media. Bursaries are awarded to talented students from lower-income backgrounds, studying for an undergraduate degree or HND level 5 or 6.
Grace Hynds, a 2023 bursary recipient, said: “My first year as an RTS Bursary Scholar gave me a plethora of opportunities to network and meet like-minded individuals…. The bursary also supported me greatly financially – I was able to contribute funding towards my university short film, television programme and editing software for my coursework.”
Applications will be accepted for three bursary schemes – the TV Production and Journalism (TVPJ) Bursary, the Digital Innovation Bursary and the Steve Hewlett Scholarship – until Monday 24 June. For eligibility information and details of how to apply, go to: rts.org.uk/education-and-trainingpages/bursaries.
As part of the TVPJ scheme, a successful bursary recipient with an interest in producing will receive the Beryl Vertue Scholarship, which was introduced in 2022.
Donations from STV, Apple TV+, All3Media, the Steve Hewlett Fund, Hartswood Films and ITV Daytime, as well as in-kind support from other companies and individuals, have enabled the bursary schemes to flourish.
