The Walter Kaitz Foundation, a leading advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the cable, media, and entertainment industry, announces a new partnership with the Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab. Spearheaded by Hillman Grad, the media company founded by Emmy award winning writer, producer, and creator, Lena Waithe, this program provides a six-month intensive development opportunity for a diverse range of actors, writers, and producers.
“Amplifying the voices of underrepresented artists and creating pathways for their success is foundational to the work we do at Hillman Grad. The generous support of the Walter Kaitz Foundation will allow us to further our mission of educating and nurturing emerging talent in Hollywood,” said Justin Riley, Senior Vice President, Operations.
Alongside this new collaboration, the Foundation has decided to sunset the Hollywood Creative Forum (HCF). This initiative has been a cornerstone for over a decade, offering educational and networking sessions to hundreds of creatives. While the HCF is concluding, this does not signify a retreat from the Foundation’s longstanding dedication to DEI efforts. Instead, it is a strategic move towards fostering new alliances that offer more comprehensive support and mentorship for those in the creative industry.
HCF alumni are encouraged to continue their journey of growth and connection by joining the “Korgi Connect” online community. This platform, created by HCF co-founder DMA Anderson, is designed to support and facilitate the professional advancement of its members. A special event, the “Korgi Connector Kick Off,” is scheduled for May 4, 2024, and HCF alumni can register for free at the Korgi Connect website.
“With HCF, the Kaitz Foundation and I created a one-of-a-kind space, at the time, for working professionals in entertainment to connect to advanced industry sessions, hirers specifically seeking them, and a diverse community of experienced writers, producers, directors and
crew,” said DMA. “In the 15 years that followed, we also created a global family. We need a space to continue building upon that wonderful bond and collectively thriving in this industry’s steadily shifting landscape.”
Nilda Gumbs, Acting Director of the Foundation, has emphasized this transition as the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The Foundation is eager to cultivate collaborations that provide opportunities for creative professionals to help forge successful careers. Gumbs also acknowledges the importance of DMA’s Korgi Connect platform as a valuable asset for the HCF community, ensuring a broader spectrum of opportunities and stronger outcomes for all involved.
The Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to amplify diverse voices in Hollywood. This commitment ensures every story finds its place, fostering an inclusive entertainment industry.
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About the Walter Kaitz Foundation
The Walter Kaitz Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the cable, media, and entertainment industry. Through programs, initiatives, and partnerships, the Foundation strives to create a more inclusive industry that reflects and represents diverse voices and perspectives.
About the Hillman Grad Foundation’s Mentorship Lab
The Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab provides opportunities for marginalized storytellers to connect, grow, and accelerate their careers. Committed to infusing new narratives and perspectives in front of and behind the camera, the Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab provides a robust slate of workshops, educational resources, and professional development and networking opportunities for a cohort of diverse writers, actors, and aspiring creative executives.
Korgi Connect is a supportive and strategic space with events, tools, and networking to help creative professionals reach their goals. Virtualand live events include a “Pilot Light” series that analyzes hit pilot scripts, “Getting Reel” events with professional feedback on director’s
reels, co-working sessions, and “Korgi Connectors” for structured networking with industry experts and each other. Korgi Connect adds a community and professional development experience to Korgi, a productivity and collaboration tool for production and more, founded by
DMA and launched earlier this year.