David Lyle Foundation sets entry deadline

The David Lyle Foundation, the industry-wide not-for-profit organisation that helps young execs build successful careers in the international TV business, has announced the closing date for its inaugural annual scholarship.

David Lyle

The foundation was launched earlier this summer in memory of Lyle, the much-loved and respected entertainment industry executive who died in 2017 and was a mentor to many in the industry globally during his 40-year career.

The deadline for the 2020 applications for scholarships has been set for Friday November 15. Candidates must demonstrate why, as a young executive, they would benefit from a scholarship.

The foundation will award two annual scholarships, each valued at US$10,000, to promising young entertainment-industry executives. The successful candidates will receive a one-year programme of education and development designed to fast-track their understanding of the global television-content business.

This includes subscriptions to key trade publications and organisations, as well as all-access passes to the world’s leading content industry events, worth in excess of US$5,000.

Each of the two scholarship winners will receive a budget of US$5,000 to pay for flights, hotels and expenses. They will also be provided with a mentor to offer support and guidance along the way.

Winners can choose to mix and match the events they attend as part of their scholarship year, provided the travel costs do not exceed the US$5,000 budget. All travel, hotel and other expenses will be coordinated by the David Lyle Foundation. Each of the scholarship winners will be charged with documenting their year-long journey with a series of articles on the Foundation website.

Cheryl Clarke

Cheryl Clarke, president of the David Lyle Foundation, said: “We have already received some excellent applications. However, with just over a month to go before we close the call for the inaugural David Lyle scholarships, we’re calling out to senior executives to put forward their rising stars for this opportunity.

“This programme seeks not only to benefit individuals, but also, by nurturing innovative ideas, passion and talent, their organisations and the entire entertainment community. Our aim is to carry forward David’s spirit of generosity and altruism by making a positive contribution to our global cultural footprint.”

The foundation has appointed an initial advisory board of executives from across the television business, which will choose from a shortlist of 10 candidates. The winners will be announced on November 29, 2019.

The programme’s founding partners, all of which will provide financial and operational support to the Foundation, include Broadcast, C21Media, Edinburgh TV Festival, EMC, Frapa, Realscreen, NPact, Pact, Natpe, TBI and Reed Midem.