SVG, YOSY Media Launch HBCU Bridge to Increase Diversity
Program will make it easier than ever for SVG members and sponsors to find qualified next-generation talent
Sports Video Group (SVG) has teamed with YOSY Media (YOSY) to engage qualified students at the nation’s top Historically Black Colleges and Universities, HBCUs, in careers in sports broadcasting, production, and other industry opportunities. The new initiative titled “HBCU Bridge” will help connect broadcasters, leagues, teams, and production companies with students who want to enter the industry via paid internships, apprenticeships, or full-time employment.
“There is tremendous need for new talent in the sports production industry and this relationship will help open up new and exciting career opportunities and also ensure sports production and engineering has a solid foundation of talent for the future,” says Andrea Berry, SVG SPIRIT Diversity and Inclusion chairwoman.
HBCU Bridge will make it easier for students and young graduates of HBCUs to learn about the various career opportunities related to sports TV and digital content creation and distribution. Opportunities will range from behind-the-scenes tours, virtual and in-person lectures, internships, and even part-time and full-time career opportunities.
“Many students are unaware of the wide variety of career opportunities in the TV and sports industry,” says Ken Kerschbaumer, SVG Co-Executive Director. “With HBCU Bridge students will not only learn about those careers but also have real-world exposure and experiences that can lead to a fulfilling professional career. SVG member companies are excited to work with YOSY Media as we look to improve the diversity of the sports production industry.”
The partnership with YOSY Media, a trusted multi-media news, information and Black culture platform created by Yolanda Starks-White, former BET Director of Talent and longtime Tom Joyner Executive Producer, and nationally syndicated media personality Sybil Wilkes, “The Voice of Reason” on the Tom Joyner Morning Show, draws on the legacy of the radio icon and his commitment to support students and sustain HBCUs across the country. A major donor, Mr. Joyner provided scholarships to more than 32,000 students and raised an excess of $69 million to HBCUs across the country before his retirement in 2019.
“YoSy Media stands on the shoulders of HBCU benefactors such as Tom Joyner and the Tom Joyner Foundation and represents the evolution and progress that has come from generations of struggle, excellence, and achievement,” says Starks-White. “This endeavor strives to bridge the economic inequities endured by far too many in this country. We hope to play an integral role in bringing to reality the dream of a college education and all that goes with it, namely, the genuine chance for prosperity, the development of qualified executives and professionals, and the creation of generational wealth.”
HBCU Bridge will launch a website in June with details on how SVG members can create internships and other career development opportunities for HBCU students during the fall semester. Internships will include access to sporting events, development of life skills, education, on-location training, and potential jobs and YoSy Media will work directly with HBCUs to reach interested students and recommend candidates.
Real-world opportunities will be complemented with virtual webinars that feature production talent who will discuss career opportunities, how to get started, and tips on career development. Broadcast companies interested in more information or in participating in the HBCU Bridge initiative can contact SVG’s Ken Kerschbaumer via email at [email protected] .