From Vision to Vocation: Creative Futures

Access to tech and creative industry employment

West LA

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Los Angeles is home to some of the world’s most innovative creative industries, yet many local students—particularly youth of color, immigrants, and those from low-income households—remain disconnected from these career pathways. This disparity begins early, as many schools are underfunded and lack hands-on learning or exposure to real-world applications of the arts. As a result, students often can’t see themselves in creative careers, even when they have the talent and interest. Opportunities like internships or mentorships are often unpaid or distributed through informal networks, creating barriers for those without financial or social capital. Our project seeks to intervene where the gap begins—by giving students the chance to meet, shadow, and learn from working professionals in music, film, photography, and design. We aim to provide skill-building, mentorship, and opportunities that foster confidence, expand access, and create sustainable career pathways in the creative economy.

Our project transforms a working creative studio into a hands-on “living expo” where 6th–12th grade students—especially from underserved communities—can explore, experience, and engage with careers in music, photography, film, and design. We address the lack of access and exposure by turning a real-world creative environment into an interactive career hub. Through a three-phase approach, we guide students from initial curiosity to real-world experience.

1. Exploration: Students are introduced to the full range of creative careers, with an emphasis on roles beyond being “the artist”—including production, editing, sound engineering, marketing, set design, licensing, and more.
Key activities: Rotating mixers with working professionals, interactive career panels, studio tours, and showcases demonstrating the full arc of creative projects

2. Engagement: As students discover areas of interest, they participate in guided, hands-on experiences that build skills and confidence.
Key activities: Shadow-a-Creative days, micro-apprenticeships in both technical and creative roles, and portfolio/resume workshops.

3. Immersion: We support students in making real steps toward career entry with opportunities that build lasting networks and professional readiness.
Key activities: Internships with studio partners, one-on-one mentorships, and inclusive networking events that foster long-term relationships and guidance

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County will be a place where creative talent is nurtured across every community—not reserved for the privileged few. While our reach may begin with a smaller group of students, the impact on their lives and future careers will be profound. Youth from historically underserved neighborhoods will see real, diverse pathways into the creative industries—not just as performers, but as editors, producers, designers, marketers, and entrepreneurs. Our work will serve as a replicable model for other studios and arts spaces to follow, expanding opportunity countywide. Over time, L.A.’s creative workforce will better reflect its racial, economic, and cultural diversity. Young people will gain access to mentorship, training, and paid work, helping close the gap between potential and opportunity. Creativity will evolve from a personal passion to a public engine for equity, mobility, and generational change.