Tai Hanson-Shin wins women’s accelerator programme for reality competition format
Banijay has chosen a winner from the USA for the second iteration of its women-focused accelerator programme, Banijay Launch
The programme, which launched in Mipcom 2023, is designed to support women creators to devise unscripted formats, with the aim of the winning ideas eventually landing on screen.
Tai Hanson-Shin beat five international candidates in a pitching competition in Paris yesterday (18 June), with her winning idea: a social reality concept called The Exchange.
It was praised by the judges for its clever gameplay, its potential for international adaptation, it’s appeal to a broad demographic and for capturing the cultural trends in demand from global broadcasters and streamers.
Hanson-Shin will now work with her mentors at Endemol Shine North America, Joanne Yang and Kristin Malley, and Banijay’s creative networks, to develop the idea further for screen.
The programme attracted entries from over 20 countries, and the other finalists included the UK’s Emma Millions, Australia’s Lottie Naughton-Rumbo, Italy’s Michelle Claase, Mexico’s Laura López and the US’ Makayla Cotton.
They pitched their original ideas to a jury comprising Endemol Shine North America chief executive Sharon Levy, Banijay Entertainment chief content officer, development James Townley, Banijay Rights chief executive officer Cathy Payne and Banijay France chief executive officer Alexia Laroche Joubert.
The judges said: “Prioritising accessibility to our industry, the inclusive program has illustrated the extent of fantastic ideas that lay undiscovered year-on-year – particularly from women.
“This year, we were once again overwhelmed by the quality and competitive nature of the pitches, but all agreed – The Exchange – took the edge. Huge congratulations go to Tai – we all believe this is just the beginning of this format’s journey and we look forward to working with her to build this brand and see where we can take it.”
Hanson-Shin said: “I’ve been developing The Exchange for eight months and the reality of bringing it to a producer, let alone a buyer, always seemed worlds away. However, thanks to this initiative, my idea has been heard, and not just heard, but by some heavy hitters of the entertainment industry.”
Last year’s joint winners were Australian freelancer Amber Kane and Brit Emily Wilson for their respective formats Double Act, a variety talent concept, and psychological dating format Can’t Buy My Love.
Banijay Launch was initiated by Levy, co-led by Townley, and is supported by the group’s network of local creatives who mentored the finalists in developing their formats from concept to pitch.
No comments yet