David Lyle Foundation opens applications for 2020 program

David Lyle

The David Lyle Foundation, the industry-wide not-for-profit organisation that aims to help young executives build careers in the international TV business, has opened the application process for its first scholarship program.

The foundation was launched earlier this year in memory of David Lyle, the much-loved former Fox, National Geographic and FremantleMedia exec, who passed away in 2017. The program will run throughout 2020 and will provide scholarships worth US$10,000 to two young people each year, with the aim of helping them develop meaningful careers in the global TV business.

The scheme, details of which can be found here, aims to provide guidance and opportunity to individuals who show extraordinary talent, integrity and drive to work in the entertainment business. Founding partners include TBI, Broadcast, C21Media, EMC, FRAPA, NATPE, NPact, Pact, Realscreen and Reed Midem.

Each scholarship includes VIP access to the leading international markets and festivals, a mentor program, and a suite of complimentary subscriptions to leading trade publications and organisation services. It also includes US$5,000 towards flights, hotels and expenses.

The scholarships are designed to allow two fledgling executives to travel to key markets and festivals worldwide to build their knowledge of the global business, supported by an advisory board of key executives in the sector.

Cheryl Clarke has been appointed president of the David Lyle Foundation and will lead the initiative, supported by an advisory board of international content industry executives.

She said: “We aim to recognise and inspire next generation leadership and to support those who want to make a positive difference in the sector. Crucially, the foundation is for people who share the values of namesake David Lyle, remarkable people that reflect these values and aspirations of a creative executive of the future.”

The foundation is supported by David’s wife Janne Dennehy, and The David Lyle Estate.