London, April 11th 2024 - Together TV, the leading UK broadcaster inspiring positive change, proudly announces the filmmakers chosen for the Diverse Film Fund 2024, focusing on empowering storytellers from deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent (DDN) communities. This year, the fund welcomes two exceptional talents: Stefan Pollak and Bim Ajadi. 

Stefan Pollak is a freelance filmmaker from the southeast of England. With a background in Film Production from University, Pollak ventured into creating impactful short films. His recent stint as a Production Trainee at Fremantle as part of the PACT 22/23 diversity scheme showcased his dedication to inclusive storytelling.  

 

Pollak expressed his enthusiasm stating: "After meeting the individual who will be the focus for this documentary, I knew his story is one I needed to tell. For it to be acknowledged and given support by Together TV is highly motivating and a thrilling chance for me to share it with a wide audience." 

 

Bim Ajadi, a London-based independent filmmaker, brings a wealth of experience in both fiction and factual filmmaking. A 2020 BAFTA Breakthrough alumni, Ajadi co-directed the acclaimed documentary series “Rising Phoenix: Road to Tokyo 2022”  and has directed blocks for “Hollyoaks”. Recognised for his award-winning short films like “Here/Not Here” and “Night Shift”.

Ajadi expressed his appreciation, saying: "I’m really delighted and chuffed to be part of this exciting incentive and really look forward to creating an uplifting and inspiring film for all to see." 

 

Whisper, the Paralympic producer for Channel 4, and BSLBT, are both supporting Together TV's Diverse Film Fund 2024, which will allow filmmakers to make two 10-minute films with £15,000 in funding per film. The partnership also provides filmmakers with industry-expert mentors, training, and ongoing support throughout the production process.  

 

The judging panel for Together TV’s Diverse Film Fund this year included (in alphabetical order):
- Camilla Arnold, Chief Executive – BSLBT,
- John Nicholson, Senior Producer – Whisper,
- Janet Olaofe, Head of Content and Scheduling – Together TV,
- Luke Seraphin, Head of Diversity and Inclusion Sky Original Programming – Sky,
- Hannah Shires, Production Manager – Whisper,
- Samantha Tatlow MBE, Creative Diversity Partner – ITV. 

 

The selected filmmakers will receive £15,000 in funding per film along with industry-expert mentors, training, and ongoing support throughout the production process. The films will adhere to The TV Access Project’s (TAP) Guidelines for Disability Inclusion in UK Television Production, BFI Diversity Standards, and BAFTA ALBERT compliance. 

 

For media inquiries, please contact:  

Francesca Aita  

Head of Marketing  

Together TV  

07482 251 330  

[email protected]  

 

About Together TV 

Together TV is the UK broadcaster inspiring positive change. We run a national TV channel, engagement platform and streaming service to motivate people to do good in their lives and communities.

We programme entertainment shows that focus on wellbeing and creativity, whilst championing diverse voices. In doing so, we open our audience’s eyes to the opportunities around them and motivate them to take part. As a result of watching, our viewers change attitudes, improve their well-being, gain confidence, do more for themselves and connect with their community.

Together TV broadcasts on Freeview 83, Sky 170, Virgin 136, Freesat 164 and through its free streaming service. As a Community Benefit Society, Together TV is owned by over two hundred shareholders with a wider group of funders and donors alongside the media and digital industry.  

 

About Whisper 

Whisper is a leading global production company, specialising in sports, documentaries and unscripted entertainment. Over 230 team members work in offices across the UK and beyond, producing Formula One, The Women’s EURO, The Paralympics and International Cricket, plus prime-time documentaries and entertainment quiz shows for a raft of broadcasters, including Prime Video, ITV, Channel 4 and BBC. In 2023 it won a BAFTA and was nominated for an International EMMY. Whisper is co-owned by Sony Pictures Television and is a seven-times Broadcast Best Places to Work. 

 

About British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust 

BSLBT commissions television programmes and short films made in British Sign Language, catering to the core target audience of deaf BSL users. Established in 2008 with Ofcom's approval, BSLBT provides an alternative way for commercial broadcasters to meet regulatory requirements for sign language on qualifying channels. 

 

For more information, visit www.togethertv.com.