Production Training for Rising Filmmakers of Color

Dear Donors,

We’re excited to share an update from our Production Assistant Certification program and to show you what your support makes possible: 

This fall, a new cohort of twenty emerging filmmakers completed Phase I of the program, where they engaged in virtual trainings covering set etiquette, nonviolent communication, ethical documentary practices, budgeting, freelancing, and navigating the flow of a professional production day. These sessions are designed to both build technical literacy and to equip participants with the confidence and communication skills needed to thrive in high-pressure creative environments.

They then moved into in-person workshops, where they gained hands-on experience with cinematography, lighting, grip, and sound equipment, preparing them for real-life careers.

On January 31st, as part of phase II of the program, we offered a documentary production training. Twenty Production Assistants worked side-by-side with industry professionals including Cinematographer Kenzo Le, Gaffer Wil Prada, Production Sound Mixer Mario Torres Torres, and Director Jazmin Aguilar. Participants transformed the space into a working studio, filming interviews and testimonials while rotating through key departments such as Directing, Camera, Lighting & Grip/Electric, Sound, and Producing.

One participant shared:

“Being part of the documentary production training was an invaluable experience for getting to learn about how trauma informed practices can be implemented across various departments on a film set. I had the opportunity to shadow a director as she took steps to ensure the comfortability of an interviewee by pausing production as needed and asking them if they needed less people in the room to alleviate pressure from the interview. I also gained insight from our sound department mentor about different ways to mic someone so that consent and respect for boundaries are always part of the process!”

This is what your support makes possible: paid, hands-on training where emerging filmmakers of color gain real access to industry knowledge, professional mentorship, and a model of filmmaking rooted in care and respect.

As we move forward with job placements and continued mentorship, we remain committed to building pathways into the film and television industry for those historically excluded from it. Visit our donation page today to increase your impact.

With gratitude,
Justice for My Sister