Fund Paid Pathways Into Film

For over ten years, Justice for My Sister has been transforming trauma into healing and opportunity. What began as a grassroots effort to bring justice to survivors of violence, has grown into a nationally recognized arts organization training the next generation of BIPOC filmmakers.

Through our Workforce Development Initiatives, we’re building pathways into the creative economy for QTBIPOC, female, nonbinary and other marginalized filmmakers too often left out of Hollywood’s promise.

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LOOKING AHEAD

We're expanding our Workforce Development programs to meet the needs of this moment. The rollback of DEI programs, the industry strikes, and rising costs of living have made it even harder for early-career filmmakers to break into an industry whose entryway is built on nepotism and unpaid internships.

Your support will help us grow three initiatives that are breaking the barriers of entry for early-career filmmakers of color:

Production Assistant Certification Program

We train early-career filmmakers in technical and soft skills, place them in paid on-set apprenticeships, and connect them with real job opportunities. Each cohort graduates ready to work, with a built-in network.

BIPOC Sci-Fi Screenwriting Lab

Our fellowship for emerging and mid-career writers of color reimagines the future through speculative storytelling. Fellows author original TV pilots in sci-fi and fantasy genres and receive mentorship from award-winning mentors, preparing them to enter the industry and transform what we see on screen.

Launchpad Initiatives: DocuLaunchpad, Short Film Launchpad and Music Video Launchpad:

Launchpad initiatives take the next step by helping alumni move toward leadership roles (writing, directing, producing and cinematography) and create their portfolio-ready films. With mentorship and production support from Justice for My Sister, participants make their first professional short films, documentaries, and music videos while being paid for their work. Each project becomes a portfolio piece that launches participants' careers.

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WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS

Your donation directly funds training, mentorships, and paid job placements for emerging filmmakers. Every dollar helps sustain programs that uplift voices too often silenced and create economic opportunity for our community:

• $25 Helps cover production essentials like gaffer tape, batteries, craft services, and crew lunch.
• $100 Supports a virtual lecture with an experienced film/TV professional for emerging filmmakers.
• $250 Provides one day of paid on-the-job training for an emerging filmmaker.
• $1,250 Funds a week of work on set for an emerging filmmaker.
• $5,000 Sponsors costs for one department through the Launchpad program.

Together, we can reach our goal of $20,000 by the end of 2026 and power the next decade of authentic storytelling. Join us today by donating and sharing this campaign.