Meta launches new initiative to train Australian creators in AR
Facebook and Instagram parent company, Meta, has partnered with Code Like a Girl and T&DA to launch the Meta Immersive Learning Academy in Australia.
Through this partnership, Meta will provide free, guided training in augmented reality (AR) to a cohort of more than 200 women and gender diverse people so they have the tools and support they need to enter the world of immersive technologies and explore careers in AR and virtual reality (VR).
The Immersive Learning Academy is a global initiative providing upskilling, community building, mentoring and monetisation opportunities.
A free, self-guided Meta Spark training, module is also available for those who prefer to learn at their own pace.
The bespoke Meta Spark AR curriculum will equip participants with skills to create and publish AR filters and experiences. The curriculum features the work of Australian AR creators, Jess Herrington and Raymond Leung.
Mia Garlick, Meta’s Regional Lead for APAC, said Meta was seeing opportunities for creators to build their business – through creating new experiences; designing accessories for avatars; or making the effects that bring augmented reality to life.
Mia Garlick
“We want to support creators to make a living,” said Garlick. “That’s why we’ve partnered with Code Like a Girl and T&DA to help grow Australia’s creator ecosystem by providing a platform where creators can upskill, build community and learn how to market and monetise their work.”
The Code Like a Girl and T&DA course will launch in May and includes free support for women in the Code Like A Girl community to up-skill in AR.
Ally Watson, CEO and founder of Code like a Girl said: “Our digital and physical realities are inextricably linked, so addressing the gender imbalance within tech is paramount. We’re delighted to bring this program and cutting edge curriculum to the Code Like a Girl community where it will introduce a much-needed diverse range of creators into the Metaverse – leading us towards more equitable experiences for all genders.”
Raymond Leung, creative director at T&DA: As the demand for digital skills continues to rise, we believe it’s essential to equip individuals and businesses with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. By leveraging our expertise in education and training and META’s cutting-edge technology, we are confident that the Meta Spark Curriculum will provide valuable insights and practical applications for individuals at all levels.
Ray Leung
As part of the launch of the Meta Immersive Learning Academy, a dedicated, self guided free online curriculum is now available to all Australians. The course includes quick start, fundamentals and pro modules allowing anyone to be up-skilled on AR effects, most notably seen on Instagram as “facial filters”. This course is open to beginners who have never heard of Meta Spark before or technical creators that have already published a few effects.
Got a tip?
Olivia Kruimel is the managing editor at Mumbrella. She has more than 15 years of experience in journalism, communications and marketing. Her journalism career began at Fairfax Media (now part of Nine) and includes various B2B publications such as B&T, Travel Today and ALB. As a marketer Olivia has worked for Standard Chartered and various global law firms.
Linkedin
Have your say