Celebrating the Media Career Pathways Graduation!
Reel Works’ inaugural class of Media Career Pathways (MCP) has come to a close. This incredible program was born out of our decades-long commitment to reaching underrepresented populations. Working with out-of-school out-of-work students, MCP increases industry access and empowers a new generation of students. Through hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world experiences, students blossomed into confident, skilled individuals ready for the next steps in the media industry.
The Media Career Pathways mission is to provide aspiring media professionals with tactical training, real-world experiences, and internship opportunities to advance in the industry. Our work with Media Career Pathways, starting with designing the curriculum and ending with students creating films, exemplifies our commitment to inclusivity.
Students gain insight into the industry’s scope, revealing the myriad of possibilities available to them. Each workshop empowers students to explore where their skills and interests thrive in the industry. Developed and organized by MediaMKRS’ Siobhan Cavanagh and Lenisha Sisnett, the curriculum is designed to remove barriers to entry while meeting current industry standards.
Siobhan’s background in media teaching equips her with the propensity to teach students how to operate high-quality equipment. But frequently that technology is inaccessible. This limitation inspired MCP instructors to teach students the core skills of filmmaking, instead of focusing on the newest technologies. Siobhan said, “We wanted students to learn using technology that is available outside of Reel Works. Workshops revolved around working within your existing environment, optimizing the natural elements. Our goal is for students to leave with actionable tools to continue filming.”
For example, students’ capstone projects were filmed using their cell phones. Students harnessed the foundational knowledge they gained to create short documentaries about Reel Works employees. By interviewing our staff, they gained deeper insight into the different avenues somebody can take in the industry.
Reel Works aims to create accessible training opportunities that center students’ needs while ensuring they feel supported during their time at Reel Works and beyond. We understand mental health is necessary when building sustainable and care-driven networks. Lenisha, Licensed Social Worker and Instructor, is at the forefront of this practice. Combining holistic pedagogical tactics with her background in social work, Lenisha supports students throughout the program. This work began while creating the curriculum. She said, “One thing I keep top of mind is what it looks like to honor voices who are vulnerable and silenced.”
The Reel Works community is fortunate to have exceptional leaders like Lenisha and Siobhan leading the program. The care and attention they offer to the space is intrinsic to its success. As we reflect on the program, we are filled with admiration and gratitude for their ongoing support and vision.
Congratulations to the graduating class of Media Career Pathways! We can’t wait to see what’s next!