MediaMKRS launches the DYCD funded Train & Earn Program. An innovative work readiness program for youth participants.

At Reel Works, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t. That’s why our Train and Earn Program was created—to bridge the gap between raw potential and meaningful employment. Designed for young adults facing barriers to employment, this program connects participants with hands-on training, industry exposure, and direct job opportunities in film, media, and beyond.

Nuestro Apoyo, a Reel Works short film, explores Latinx mental health through intergenerational storytelling and youth-led filmmaking.

Our Los Angeles Alumni Community is growing! As of today, we have 120+ MediaMKRS graduates ready to work in the City of Angels. Despite the rocky start to the year due to the LA fires, our alumni showed up and showed out at our two events hosted by industry partners. 

We’re thrilled to introduce our newest cohort of Reel Works Youth Ambassadors! This dynamic group of student filmmakers are launching passion-driven creative projects and stepping into their roles as leaders.

In response to recent ICE raids and a shifting political climate, Reel Works hosted Know Your Rights, a Brooklyn town hall designed to give young people and their families the tools to protect themselves. Led by attorneys from The Kuba Law Firm, P.C., the panel broke down immigration law with clarity and urgency. When youth know their rights, they build power and community.

In a powerful collaboration between Reel Works in Schools and the Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice, thirteen young Black filmmakers from Brooklyn are creating change through cinema. This innovative program empowers justice-impacted youth with professional filmmaking skills while amplifying vital stories from their community.

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.