NBCUniversal is increasing its efforts for more gender and ethnic diversity with the brand NBCU LAUNCH. The platform will house all the diversity, equality and inclusion efforts for the entertainment networks in the NBCU Television and Streaming portfolio.
Overseen by Jeanne Mau, Senior Vice President of TV Programming Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, NBCU Launch will provide multiple opportunities to ensure authentic representation is featured within networks like NBC, Peacock, E!, Bravo, SYFY, Oxygen, USA and Universal Kids. The umbrella brand will also encompass Universal Studio Group properties like Universal Television, Universal Content Productions, Universal International Studios and Universal Television Alternative Studio.
NBCU Launch includes programs like the NBC TV Writers Program, which focuses on elevating the next generation of diverse TV writers (applications closing on March 7). The current Female Forward initiative will continue alongside the TV Directors Program, which will include ethnically diverse male and nonbinary directors, with a submission period opening on March 14. NBCU Launch will also provide the industry’s first program dedicated to finding entry-level job opportunities for underrepresented crew members with the NBCU LAUNCH Below the Line Traineeship. And, last but not least, the Talent and Casting Assistant Program will push forward diverse casting efforts.
“As we scale our efforts, we have a sizeable opportunity to positively impact storytelling now and in the decades to come,” Mau said in a press release. “At this moment in our culture where there is an abundance of diverse talent with amazing stories to tell, our hope is that the progress we make with NBCU LAUNCH will create an unending ripple effect in our industry.”To keep up with the brand’s efforts, as well as NBCU Launch’s many talent incubation programs, check out their website, Twitter and Instagram!
