BACKGROUND

'Traditionally these kind of projects are run by maniacs or charismatic individuals - what DEMOS would call "social entrepreneurs". Motivated by a belief in its social value not money. Visionary running on air and energy.' (Quote from a director of a media arts resource).

Denise Rose is one such individual. With training as a youth worker and experience of broadcast TV production, Denise became frustrated at the industry's concept of 'youth television'.

Passionate about the democratising potential of digital technologies Denise would like to see children and young people given the means to make documentary-based television, 'for young people by young people', representing for themselves the concerns and issues in their lives.

Using personal finance to purchase the initial equipment, Denise established the independent voluntary organisation Mouth That Roars (MTR) in London's East End at the start of 1998. Provision is aimed at the 8 to 18 age range although in practice its projects are predominantly 14 to 18 year olds.

All of MTR's staff have background training and /or experience in teaching or youth work and in TV or video production.

PRODUCTION OPPORTUNITIES

MTR is based on a participatory video practice that maximises young people's editorial control, placing a premium on high levels of active participation in identifying, researching and devising content and in operating the camera. The organisation's mission statement identifies three key objectives:

• To encourage a broad access to media arts for young people from disadvantaged and impoverished backgrounds and environments;
• To train young people in video and TV production, giving them the skills and knowledge to develop careers in the media and to enhance their confidence and self-esteem; and
• To enable young people to discuss/debate issues that affect their lives by producing a documentary from their point-of-view.