Reel Works Mentor Meet & Greet

It’s difficult to pinpoint what makes Reel Works the unique organization it is, but there’s something particularly special about welcoming a new cohort of mentors. Reel Works’ mentorship program pairs industry professionals with our students participating in afterschool classes in documentary and narrative filmmaking. 

Eva Tikhomirova, a student in the Documentary Lab, shared, “My mentor and I actually spoke for around an hour and he honestly is like an older sibling to me. Not only does he help me with my documentary, but he is just very understanding and just in general a good person to be around.” 

Reel Works wrapped up 2021 by hosting two virtual Mentor Meet & Greets for the 2022 Documentary and Narrative Labs. In a whirlwind of ice breakers, pitch decks, and breakout rooms, students and mentors had the opportunity to get to know each other and decide for themselves who they would most like to work with. A ranking survey was conducted at the end and used by Reel Works staff to make the final mentor-mentee matches.

For the remainder of the labs, mentors and teen filmmakers will meet weekly for one hour to discuss students’ final films, career pathways, life advice, or simply top movie recommendations. 

“My mentor Sanjay really matched my energy and truly saw my vision. As I explained what I was working on and what I had hoped to express throughout my film, Sanjay was just as excited to aid in the process of making my vision come to life. Having him as a mentor and hearing his insight and a different perspective to the filmmaking process adds a whole other level to everything,” shared Bree Campbell. 

Students are receiving valuable mentorship from industry professionals, and mentors get a chance to hear fresh ideas from the younger generation and give back to the industry.

"The next generation of Reel Works filmmakers are at the juncture where modern technology meets tried-and-true techniques. It is an honor to help this community inspire the spirit of New York City through storytelling," remarked Sanjay Nukhu, Mentor.