University partners up for MediaCity event to level the playing field

Taking place on Wednesday 21 January at dock10, the North’s leading television studio facility, based in the heart of MediaCity, the event will bring together Salford students, creative industry leaders, and a cohort of inspiring young professionals for a full day of panel discussions and industry connection opportunities. 53 Degrees North Media Academy is a social-enterprise (CIC) aiming to break down barriers for entry-level working-class talent.

The programme will focus on actionable guidance for employment, demystifying pathways into the sector, and helping students recognise the breadth of roles their degree skills can unlock.

The event will also welcome back 53 Degrees North Media Academy alumni, who have since progressed into roles across television, digital production and advertising, to share candid insights from their own journeys into the industry.

Sam Ingelson, Associate Dean: Knowledge Exchange at The University of Salford, said: “Supporting talent from all backgrounds is at the heart of everything we do. This collaboration between the University, MediaCity, dock10 and 53 Degrees North Media Academy strengthens our commitment to ensuring students have direct access to industry knowledge, opportunities and real-world advice.”

Reflecting on the announcement, Academy alumnus Ryan Reid said: “The Academy opened doors for me that I didn’t think possible and gave me the confidence to pursue my career. Being able to return and speak to students is incredibly meaningful — and we’re so grateful to Dock10 for supporting this event and opening its doors to the next generation.”

Ryan studied Film Production at the University of Salford and is now a full-time editor for a leading YouTube channel,

Andy Waters, Head of Studios, dock10 MediaCity, said: “MediaCity and dock10 are proud to partner on this initiative that not only empowers students but also connects creative businesses with the next wave of northern talent. Supporting emerging talent is essential to the long-term success of the sector, and we’re committed to building pathways to ensure the industry is diverse, representative and open to new voices and ideas.”

The organisers are inviting companies across broadcast, streaming, digital, production, advertising and creative technology to sponsor and support the initiative, helping remove barriers to entry for students from socio-economically diverse backgrounds and building a stronger, more representative talent pipeline for the region.