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.

The People and Culture (P&C) Committee at Reel Works was established to foster transformation for Reel Works staff. Launched during rapid growth, this inclusive committee unites staff members to collaborate on policies, procedures, and community building.

Reel Works in Schools recently graduated its latest cohort from the Career Discovery Production Assistant program. This initiative serves young adults interested in pursuing careers as Production Assistants in New York City's vibrant media and entertainment industry.

Reel Works attended the Tribeca Film Festival! This opportunity, made possible by the NYC Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment's Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting, provided a dynamic platform where emerging filmmakers could engage with cutting-edge films and eminent professionals. 

In celebration of Pride Month, we had the pleasure of sitting down with lesbian filmmaker, exceptional Reel Works alumni and current staff member, Emily Freire.

Reel Works in Schools is hard at work! Within the past month, the team has graduated four different cohorts of young filmmakers. Each program is unique in design and curriculum, but all emphasize the importance of storytelling and creative expression in students' educational journeys.

Emerging filmmaker and Reel Works alumni Kelly has announced her new film, Dreamland. In our exclusive interview, she shared that creating Dreamland was a journey of self-discovery and a culmination of various projects and trajectories, like the Center Stage Beauty Podcast.

We’re thrilled to spotlight an influential member of Reel Works who enhances the future of the media and entertainment industry, Keisha Katz, our Director of Workforce and External Partnerships. As an incredible leader, Keisha embodies the spirit of innovation, dedication, and leadership.

Reel Works and Harbor Picture Company hosted a special screening in honor of Black History Month! The event highlighted the remarkable talents and perspectives of young Black filmmakers within our community. Unveiling an array of compelling narratives to thought-provoking documentaries, the evening served as a powerful celebration of Black voices in cinema.

Reel Works Doc Lab mentor Jalyssa Jimenez joined our Film School Friday for an impactful screening of “The Next Stop,” a documentary-narrative inspired by real-life events. This courageous project confronts the often untold stories of sexual harassment women face on New York City’s transit system. “The Next Stop” won the Best Youth award at BlackStar Film Festival and was nominated for Tribeca Film Festival.

Reel Works Media Career Pathways students participated in an enriching marketing 101 workshop led by Jenni Loo, Producer of Internal Productions, and Marisa Iovino, Communications Associate. The afternoon was lively with insights, interactive activities, and a shared passion for learning. Here’s more about the afternoon!

Reel Works hosted a Halloween-inspired 48 Hour Filmmaking Challenge in October. Yasmin who worked on the short film Finding Willow reflects on the exhilarating weekend in our latest blog post.