National Screen Institute / The Shine Network Institute

PACT (Pledge-Activate-Cultivate-Thrive) is the first free online Indigenous cultural competency course in North America, aimed at the screen sector. Launched in September 2023 by the National Screen Institute and The Shine Network Institute, it was developed with funding from the Department for Women and Gender Equality (WAGE). Led by Jennifer Podemski of The Shine Network Institute, PACT aims to improve outcomes for Indigenous people by fostering culturally informed spaces and equipping non-Indigenous creators with tools and knowledge that respect Indigenous values.

The course is essential for those in the screen sector dealing with Indigenous content or collaborating with Indigenous Peoples, including unions, guilds, broadcasters and production personnel. It's a step towards reconciliation, promoting safer, more equitable and Indigenous-informed workplaces.

PACT addresses unconscious bias and offers a path to better understanding. Available in French and English at https://learnatshine.ca/, the course requires sign-up, culminating in a pledge, certificate and badge upon completion.

The Shine Network Institute, an Indigenous-led non-profit, provides professional development, advocacy, and mentorship for Indigenous women in media, striving to overcome systemic barriers.

The National Screen Institute, dedicated to underrepresented voices including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, LGBTQ2S+, and those from various regions and backgrounds, offers training and mentoring in film and television, nurturing storytellers to inspire a better world.