The National Screen Institute celebrates Ursula Lawson as she steps into her new role as senior programs manager.
In this role, Ursula is responsible for providing support, management and training to National Screen Institute program managers to ensure the organization meets the needs of participants, sponsors and funders.
This includes meeting regularly with program managers and the director of operations to ensure programs stay relevant to industry needs.
Ursula will work alongside the CEO and director of operations to develop new programs, manage program budgets and ensure funder and sponsor contract requirements are met.
“I’m excited to contribute to the growth of the National Screen Institute, especially our program staff who bring new perspectives and a passionate commitment to nurturing and developing our storytellers,” says Ursula. “I’m inspired by our talented participants, faculty, presenters, mentors and colleagues – who I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from over the years.”
From her start with the organization in 2004, Ursula has been instrumental in the growth of the National Screen Institute. She co-developed NSI IndigiDocs in 2012, a documentary development and production program for Indigenous filmmakers, which she managed for six years.
In 2013, Ursula was awarded the YMCA-YWCA Women of Distinction Circle of Inspiration Award for her contribution to the CBC New Indigenous Voices program, which she managed for 12 years.
“Through Ursula’s 18 years of service with the National Screen Institute, she has touched every single aspect of our organization and brings a unique knowledge, much needed skill set and commitment to each student and project she encounters,” says CEO, Joy Loewen. “Knowing Ursula is part of this team gives me confidence as we move through this exciting period of organizational growth.”
About the National Screen Institute – Canada (NSI)
Propelled by a visionary network of donors, private and public organizations, board and staff, the National Screen Institute supports creators from across Canada to tell unforgettable stories. Through industry-informed training and mentoring in film, television and digital media, students and alumni find their voice and place on the global stage, inspiring us to shape a better world.
The National Screen Institute is committed to training participants from a diverse community of voices including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, women, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning and two-spirit (LGBTQ2S+), people with disabilities, those outside large urban centres, those from regional and remote areas and various religious groups.
