Alumni Insights from the Inaugural MediaMKRS Summit
On April 12, 2024, Reel Works, in collaboration with Paramount Global, hosted the inaugural MediaMKRS Summit in the vibrant city of New York. It was a momentous occasion where over 150 individuals from various sectors - including education, industry, government, and alumni - convened to address the pressing issues within the media and entertainment industry. The Summit served as a platform for meaningful discussions on how we can collectively work towards building a more inclusive and equitable industry. Panelists included Tommy O’Donnell, President of Theatrical Teamsters Local 817, Kwame Amoaku, Deputy Commissioner of the Film Office at the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, Jennifer Bullock, Vice President of Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Local 798, Naila Mckenzie Ross Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at AMC and more.
One of the highlights of the Summit was the opportunity to hear from MediaMKRS Alumna and first-generation college graduate, Marianne Parra Rosales. She shared her insights into the significance of representation in the media industry, emphasizing the need for diverse voices and perspectives at the table. Marianne also spoke about the invaluable opportunities provided by the Summit and the actions she believes industry leaders should take to drive meaningful change.
According to Marianne Parra Rosales, "Representation matters. By diversifying the voices in the room, we can ensure that a broader range of perspectives are considered, leading to more inclusive and authentic storytelling. The MediaMKRS Summit is a critical step towards creating a more diverse and sustainable future for the media industry.”
At Reel Works, we recognize the importance of building a diverse and inclusive community. That's why the MediaMKRS Summit is more than just a one-time event - it's a testament to our ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration and dialogue within the industry. Beyond the panel discussions, the Summit provided ample networking opportunities for participants to connect with like-minded individuals and engage in meaningful conversations about their work and the future of media.
As we reflect on the success of the inaugural MediaMKRS Summit, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we can continue to drive positive change and create a media industry that truly reflects the rich diversity of our society.
Stay tuned for updates on future events and initiatives from Reel Works as we work towards a more inclusive and equitable media landscape.