Animation and digital production is really big business. Globally, the industry’s projected value for this year will be around NZ$111 billion.

Clubhouse 274 in association with Oktobor Animation are working to ensure that young people in Otara and other underserved communities have a sustainable stake in the present and future of this global industry. In an industry that thrives on creativity and innovation--skills that Clubhouse youth have in abundance--these young New Zealanders are poised to succeed.

The Animation Studio is made possible by a grant from the US Department of State with the support of Mr David Huebner, Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa.

Ambassador Huebner is a great supporter of youth initiatives in the United States, and now in New Zealand and Samoa. “Giving young people opportunities and seeing them excel and work collaboratively on exciting, creative projects assures me that they will make a positive difference in our world” he said.

“Creativity is the new currency for today’s world and these young people have the talent, and now the opportunity, to join the global band of dreamers and creators in the fast growing industry of animation and digital production” says Mike Usmar, CEO of Computer Clubhouse Trust.

Auckland-based Oktobor Animation is providing support through its “Bright Stars” program.

Co-founder, Mr Dan Wang says “This is a great platform that will help strengthen relationships between educators, our industry, and the community. Most importantly, ‘Bright Stars’ helps create viable pathways to future success for underserved youth.”

The program focuses on young people who demonstrate talent, interest and potential in animation and digital production. The team at Oktobor will mentor and work with members to build technical and business skills, and professional contacts around the industry.

ENDS

The Computer Clubhouse Trust is a member of the Intel Computer Clubhouse Network. The Intel Computer Clubhouse Network is a program of the Museum of Science, Boston with support from MIT Media Laboratory.

About the Animation Studio

The Clubhouse 274 Youth Animation Studio is a learning environment that harnesses and encourages creativity, innovation, exploration, and connectedness through animation and digital productions. Young learners will:

develop animation industry skills using a variety of software tools and equipment including: Microsoft, Adobe and Autodesk, animation tablets, stop motion cameras, etc

gain practical experience in the high tech industry through shadow programs and internships with partner companies

eventually collaborate and produce commercial and community projects

increase their capability to earn and secure opportunities for employment

develop skills in business operations and entrepreneurship.

About Oktobor Animation
Oktobor Animation is a computer generated (CG) animation business based in Auckland since May 2010 with a staff of 140, many under the age of 25. The company services the world famous Nickelodeon Studios, creating multiple CG animated television series including "Penguins of Madagascar" and “Kung Fu Panda” enjoyed by over 450 million children and parents worldwide. Oktobor Animation provides competitive animated production services to the global market with support from the New Zealand Government PDV Grant scheme.

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