Reel Works in Schools & Communities (RWiS) continues expanding career-connected learning and hands-on media training for high school students across New York City. From industry guest speakers to studio visits and community-driven documentary shoots, students are gaining real-world experience in filmmaking, content creation, and storytelling.

In partnership with Theatrical Teamsters Local 817, Netflix, Warner Bros. Discovery, AMC Networks, and LaGuardia Community College, Reel Works launched its innovative Casting Assistant Training Program, helping emerging professionals launch careers in the media and entertainment industry. 

On Friday, March 14 2025, Reel Works teamed up with A+E Factual Studios™ to host a Career Day focused on highlighting the various roles that bring unscripted television to life. MediaMKRS alum Alondra Jimenez led the event alongside Tony Harris, host of History’s popular series The Proof is Out There, who moderated an engaging discussion for about 20 aspiring young filmmakers.

This Black History Month, we’re spotlighting Paul M. Wayans, Reel Works’ Development Manager. From his roots in the Bronx, to working with producing visionaries in music, fashion and art Paul has found his true calling in the nonprofit industry where he creates opportunities for NYC’s emerging talent.

Vadee, a Reel Works and IATSE Entertainment Industry Make-up Artist program alum, is redefining entertainment make-up artistry through his work with high-profile clients in the TV/Film world and his leadership in industry inclusion.

Like many aspiring filmmakers and media professionals in New York City, Akira was at a crossroads during her final year at Hunter College. Holding a Media Studies degree but facing an uncertain future in NYC's competitive entertainment industry, she discovered a game-changing opportunity: Reel Works' Media Career Pathways Program.

The MediaMKRS Summit returns on February 27, 2025, at Paramount Global in NYC.

Meet Chidiogo Igboekwe, whose directorial debut "Tabula Rasa" premiered at our 2024 Film Festival. Like many emerging talents, she found her creative community in our Narrative Fellows program.

For nearly 25 years, Reel Works has empowered young voices across New York City through free, innovative filmmaking programs. Our commitment extends beyond teaching technical skills—we're building the next generation of diverse storytellers through one-on-one mentorship and hands-on production experience.

At the intersection of storytelling and language accessibility, Reel Works is revolutionizing youth media education in New York City.

Our groundbreaking Dual Language Documentary Lab Program, launched in summer 2024 through the generous support of NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns, is transforming how bilingual teens learn filmmaking in both Spanish and English. Towns' commitment to empowering young Latino voices through media has made it possible for us to break down language barriers in film education.

Brooklyn teen filmmakers win Best Cinematography at Reel Works Film Festival 2024.

The Reel Works Film Festival celebrates innovative storytellers both within and beyond our programs. This year's Best Animation winner, Daniel Oliver Lee, captivated audiences with "Daltokki," a mesmerizing journey through dreamlike landscapes.

Winner of the Best Documentary Film award at the 2024 Reel Works Film Festival, Vanessa Cruz's "The Making of a Matriarch" centers on the stories and experiences of three generations of Dominican women: her grandmother, her mother, and herself.

Created through our inaugural Dual Language Doc Lab program, Cruz's bilingual documentary recounts her family’s influence with authenticity.

Aunika, a rising creative director and photographer, brings a unique perspective shaped by childhood experiences in Brooklyn photo studios and powered by her imagination.

In the heart of New York City's bustling film industry, Reel Works recently hosted its Annual Alumni Mixer, an event that proved to be nothing short of spectacular. Partnering with the renowned Adorama Rental Company, this gathering brought together diverse film and media professionals, creating an electrifying atmosphere of creativity and opportunity.

HBO’s “The Gilded Age” / Local USA 829, IATSE Costume Department Training–a collaborative effort between Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO, Reel Works, and Stockade Works–recently offered aspiring costume designers an immersive experience in period costume design. Warner Bros. Discovery and the Empire State Development Fund funded this program, enabling a comprehensive curriculum that blended various learning environments to provide a holistic view of the art and craft of costume design.

Abby joined Reel Works in 2016 and has grown into a critical leadership role, transitioning from Program Director to the new Director of Data and Impact. Her journey at Reel Works showcases creativity, education, and innovation.

Discover how Abby's unique journey from Program Director to Director of Data is shaping the future of Reel Works and empowering young filmmakers. Read the full story to learn about her inspiring career path, her impact on our programs, and how she's using data to drive positive change in our community.

In the dynamic entertainment world, Jenn Bullock stands out as a visionary leader and accomplished professional. As an elected officer and NY Director of Education for Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists Local 798 I.A.T.S.E., Jenn has initiated and overseen significant strides in shaping the industry's future. Her, along with the membership of I.A.T.S.E. Local 798, have achieved an innovative partnership with Reel Works to launch the inaugural I.A.T.S.E. Local 798 Entertainment Industry Hair Stylist Training program, which issued a new education and skill development standard. An Emmy-nominated hairstylist herself, Jenn brings a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence to her role. Let's explore her remarkable journey, from her roots in theater to her current position at the forefront of education for hair and makeup artistry in television and film.