Participants will be emerging writers of color over 18, with at least one original pilot sample, who are not WGA members and are not currently, and have never been, staffed on a scripted series - or are not currently, and have never been, employed as support staff in a Writers Room. Applicants can reside anywhere in the US but must be willing to move to Los Angeles if offered a paid position in a Writers Room.

If you live in another country, you are eligible if you have a current valid work visa and can move to Los Angeles immediately if a job is offered.

Writing teams may apply, and should fill out one application together.

Over the course of one year, Mentors and Mentees will meet or talk at least once a month.  Mentors will provide advice, support, accountability and help prepare Mentees for the challenges of a career in television. Additionally Mentors will guide Mentees in developing and polishing one original pilot, with a calendar of steps clearly outlined:

• Mentor will hear/read pitch concept(s) and give general advice on one idea
• Mentor will provide Mentee with pilot outline and script samples if needed
• Mentor will read pilot outline and give notes
• Mentor will read first draft and give notes
• Mentor will give final set of polish notes

Mentors are committed to making introductions and fostering connections with other writers, agents, managers and executives.  The goal is to help Mentees build genuine, rewarding, professional relationships and collaborations that will continue beyond the program and ultimately lead to a career in television.

Our Program Director and a panel of working television writers will pair you with a Mentor they feel is best suited to your writing goals.  We will be taking into account your tone, style, whether you write drama or comedy, and what kinds of networks or streaming platforms your material reflects.

You will own your own material.  Your Mentor will simply be guiding you through the development process, providing notes and feedback.

We cannot promise anyone a job upon completion of the Program.  What we can promise is direct access to allies in our industry who are committed to helping you succeed.  Like everything in life, this opportunity is what you make of it.  But it’s our hope that your hard work and the relationships you build within this program will lead to a successful career in television.

With Covid-19, many Writers Rooms are currently happening over Zoom.  Which means you can live anywhere you like.  However, it can be hard to secure representation without a meaningful commitment to live in Los Angeles and be available for meetings and interviews.  We strongly recommend applicants be willing to move to Los Angeles should a job arise.

The Mentorship Matters Program launches in early May 2021. You will be notified, one way or another, by the end of April.