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The 2013 bursary has been awarded to Kevin Shen. In the face of hundreds of extremely strong submissions, many of which were worthy of winning, his application was outstanding. Kevin is extremely proactive and dedicated to developing professional – which includes producing and making his own work as he carves his career. “Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity. I came into the industry via a very non-traditional path, and for the last few years, the Actors’ Guild has been essential to my development as an actor.

Without formal training or a network from drama school, I have depended on The Actors’ Guild, which has given me the opportunity to meet and learn from both my fellow actors and industry professionals, who have been amazing sources of support and inspiration. A few years ago, I made the decision to leave the corporate world and its safety and security for the much less predictable but far more satisfying life of an actor.  It was a risk that I am glad to have taken, and I am very grateful to have received this bursary, which serves as an affirmation of this decision, encouragement for my future, and opportunity for my continuing development.  

With this bursary, I will undoubtedly continue to grow as an actor.  Furthermore, I believe it will allow me to continue to contribute in what small way I can to the profession and my peers.  Spurred on by the challenges actors face in the industry, I’ve begun using my business background to produce work to create opportunities for myself and my peers, doing what I can to help diversify stage and screen by actively promoting casting for underrepresented demographics, and this bursary plays its part in allowing me to continue this.

I can attribute many of my own successes in my acting career directly to the Actors’ Guild. I’ve made fast friendships with fellow actors that I’ve met at workshops who have taken time to help me prepare for auditions or hone my camera technique.  I’ve met actor/filmmakers at workshops with whom I’ve collaborated and who have given me roles in their projects.  I’ve built relationships with casting directors who have supported me and provided me exciting opportunities.  I’m already very grateful for how the Actors’ Guild has benefited me, and receiving this bursary is an incredible honor and opportunity.  Thank you so much!”