AFTER SCHOOL

Reel Works offers free, after school filmmaking programs for NYC teens. Each lab provides mentorship from professional filmmakers and hands-on experience in storytelling, production, and editing. Explore our programs below and take the next step in your creative journey.

Upcoming Programs

  • Doc Lab

    Intro to Documentary Filmmaking
    A hands-on workshop where NYC high school students (ages 13–19) learn the fundamentals of documentary filmmaking — from concept to final cut. Students will create and premiere their own original short films.

    Eligibility: NYC-based high school students, ages 13–19
    Schedule: Mondays & Tuesdays, 4:30–6:30 PM
    Dates: October 27, 2025–May 8, 2026

    Applications for this program are now closed.

    Learn more and apply
  • Students behind the scenes

    Narrative Lab

    Narrative Filmmaking Lab
    Write, direct, and premiere your own original short film in a supportive, collaborative environment.

    Eligibility: NYC-based high school students (ages 16–20) with prior filmmaking experience
    Schedule: Wednesdays & Thursdays, 4:30–6:30 PM
    Dates: December 3, 2025–June 18, 2026

    Applications Close: November 10, 2025

    Learn more and apply
  • Student filmmaker using camera during Reel Works Narrative Fellows program in NYC

    Narrative Fellows

    Intensive Filmmaking Training

    A free program for NYC youth (ages 17–21) to specialize in writing, directing, producing, cinematography, or editing & sound.

    Eligibility: NYC-based youth, ages 17–21, with experience or strong interest in filmmaking
    Schedule: Wednesdays & Thursdays, 4:30–6:30 PM
    Dates: January 8 – June 26, 2026

    Applications Close: December 1, 2025

    Learn more and apply

Are You a Media Professional?

Reel Works pairs NYC teens with professional filmmakers for one-on-one mentoring. Mentors provide weekly guidance in storytelling, production, and career exploration—helping young filmmakers take the next step in their creative journey.

Become a Mentor

Watch student films

See what Reel Works students create! Watch short films made in our after school programs and get inspired to start your own journey.

Watch the films

Chidiogo Igboekwe, Narrative Fellows Alumni

“As a director, I learned how to advocate for myself and my creative vision. With my mentor’s guidance, I realized the importance of listening to feedback while also standing firm and explaining why certain ideas mattered to me. That experience taught me how to communicate my perspective clearly and collaborate while still championing my vision.”

Interested in After School Opportunities?

Fill out our short interest survey to get updates on Reel Works programs and applications.

Questions? Email mariam@reelworks.org for more information or assistance.

Support the next generation of filmmakers. Your gift helps keep our programs free.

Donate to Reel Works