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Youth

California Invests in Career Pathways for Underrepresented Youth in Entertainment Industry

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

California Governor's Office First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom recently visited an innovative apprenticeship program that aims to open up more career pathways for underrepresented youth in the entertainment industry, including women of color. The Handy Foundation, a strategic partner of the California Film Commission, offers a 2025 recipient of the state's California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship (COYA) Grant, which supports pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs for youth across the state. This program is part of Governor Newsom's Master Plan for Career Education, which demonstrates how apprenticeships can bring together labor and industry to expand access and equity across California's film and television workforce.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Handy Foundation's apprenticeship program provides training for "below-the-line" roles in the entertainment industry, including assistant editing, production, and post-management roles.
  • The program has received a $750,000 grant from the California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship (COYA) program to expand its services.
  • The program is part of the state's Master Plan for Career Education, which aims to connect young people to meaningful, high-wage careers.
  • The program is supported by industry partners such as Netflix, Lionsgate, and Bunim-Murray Productions.
  • The program has a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, aiming to create pathways for underrepresented talent in the entertainment industry.
  • The program is part of a larger effort by Governor Newsom to boost entertainment production and invest in California's creative economy.

Statistics:

  • The California Film Commission's Film and Television Tax Credit Program has been expanded to a $750 million credit package.
  • The wage gap for Black women compared to non-Hispanic white men is 66 cents vs. $1 for full-time, year-round workers (as of July 10th, Black Women's Equal Pay Day).
  • 100 alumni from the Handy Foundation program are currently working in the entertainment industry.

Sources:

  • Office of the Governor of California
  • The Handy Foundation
  • California Film Commission
  • California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship (COYA) program
  • Netflix
  • Lionsgate
  • Bunim-Murray Productions

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