Become a Reel Works Mentor
Meet past mentors and students in action.
Why Mentor?
Reel Works is an award-winning youth filmmaking program where NYC teens create short documentaries and narrative films about their lives and communities. Each student works 1:1 with a professional filmmaker mentor for weekly guidance.
Mentors provide:
Encouragement and steady guidance
Career exploration and industry insights
Technical support in writing, filming, and editing
Resume and job-readiness coaching
Your support helps a young storyteller find their voice, build skills, and explore careers in film and TV.
What You’ll Do
Meet weekly with your mentee in person or virtually
Support story development through post-production
Share industry insights and feedback on cuts
Encourage professional habits and portfolio building
Courses You’ll Support
Documentary Lab
Oct 27 – May 5. Weekly check-ins. Guide story development, filming, and edit. Learn more about our Doc Lab.
Narrative Lab
Dec 4 – May 28. Weekly check-ins. Support screenwriting, casting, directing actors, and edit. Attend at least one production day. Casting and location scouting days encouraged. Learn more about our Narrative Lab.
What We’re Looking For
Professional experience in documentary or narrative filmmaking
Commitment to mentoring young people’s artistic, academic, and professional growth
Ability to commit to weekly 1:1 sessions for 6–8 months
Optional stipend: $500.
Mentor Impact
Since 2001, Reel Works mentors have guided more than 1,000 teens in creating award-winning films and launching careers in media.
“The most rewarding part about being a mentor is learning about your mentee’s experiences, and understanding where the next generation of filmmakers is coming from.”
Ready to Mentor?
Questions? Email Christine Pluviose, Senior Education Coordinator at Reel Works.