InitializeFilms, in association with BBC Film Network, ShortsInternational and members' club The Hospital, has a new UK industry trainingprogramme for women who want to produce short films.

Theprogramme, Athena, is atwo-month course that will train and coach 10 women to produce a short film.The first edition will be comprised of 10 two-hour workshops in June and July2006.

"Weaim to provide expert advice and contacts so that participants have the righttype of platform to take the next step in their careers," said Initialize headIan Davies.

EmilyMan of the Rushes Soho Short Film Festival will run the programme.

Moreinformation can be found hereand the application deadline is May 28.