A Grant to Create Career Pathways for Underrepresented Youth

Access to tech and creative industry employment

County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Despite the vibrant diversity of our city, people of color remain significantly under-represented in key sectors, especially in STEM and the entertainment industry. For instance, while Black and Latino individuals make up approximately 54% of the population in Los Angeles, they represent only about 17% of the workforce in tech roles at a national level. In the entertainment sector, studies show that only 20% of film and television characters are from under-represented groups.
Common barriers to career opportunities include de-facto racism and financial barriers caused by typical under-paid apprenticeships. The lack of existing minority representation has significant detrimental effects on the ability of future minority groups to get into positions of prominence.
Yes2Jobs focuses on supporting the growth of those underrepresented groups by providing training and education to improve access to careers, companies, and opportunities to close the racial wealth gap.

Yes2Jobs pioneers a transformative approach to economic empowerment in underexposed and under-resourced communities. By offering personalized mentorship and skill-building opportunities, we pave the way for advancement, empowerment, and financial equity. Our dedicated team members, fueled by compassion and youth empowerment, drive this mission forward, fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
To engage the next generation of talented youth and create life-changing opportunities for them and their communities, Yes2Jobs has established a system of project-oriented skills development training. The projects and inspiration are provided by industry partners, who also contribute volunteer speakers, mentors, and project advisors. The youth gain access to this knowledge and expose them to real-life projects that provide a safe practice space to learn and grow their technological and soft skills.

As Yes2Jobs pioneers a transformative approach to economic empowerment in underexposed communities across LA County, the region will become more inclusive, equitable, and future-ready. Through personalized mentorship and project-based skill development, youth from under-resourced communities will gain access to real-world experiences guided by industry professionals. This hands-on approach equips them with both technical and soft skills, creating clear pathways to meaningful careers.
As a result, economic mobility will rise, opportunity gaps will shrink, and communities long overlooked will be revitalized by a new generation of skilled, confident leaders. By fostering partnerships between youth and industry, Yes2Jobs builds a bridge to the future—one defined by empowerment, innovation, and shared prosperity. Our compassionate team and committed volunteers are creating a culture of mentorship and service that multiplies impact and inspires lasting change throughout LA County.