Netflix and the Transgender Film Center (TFC) are teaming up to launch a new fellowship aimed at supporting promising transgender and non-binary creators
The Career Development Lab is a new intensive 12-week project through TFC and funded by Netflix’s Fund for Creative Equity. The fellowship, which aims to accelerate the careers of its participants, will support eight filmmakers in film and television during its inaugural class.
“As trans filmmakers begin to make strides in pursuing their careers as storytellers, there is still a strong need to both enable access and prepare trans filmmakers to succeed in the industry,” said Sav Rodgers, executive director. director of TFC, in a statement. “We are so excited about the Career Development Lab because we believe the rubber-meets-the-road insights and partnerships with industry players will help participants break through a career in film and television.”
Applicants are assessed by a panel of TFC board members and lab partners for their demonstrated strength in six separate areas, including potential, readiness and need. Selected fellows will then have access to field visits, including a behind-the-scenes look at festivals, as well as a series of virtual classes and face-to-face workshops hosted by industry professionals.
The curriculum will focus on developing skills and understanding around the written and unwritten expectations of success in Hollywood. In addition to classes and workshops, participants will have access to working industry executives and experience the operations of entertainment organizations, along with an unrestricted $10,000 scholarship to support their participation in the program, including travel and lodging.
“One of the things we think sets this lab apart from others is the real-talk curriculum,” Rodgers said. “We take a closer look at how to navigate the industry as a trans person, what to do when you encounter bias, how decisions are really made that affect your advancement — things that aren’t openly talked about, but are required knowledge to get the most out of a career in entertainment.”
TFC and Netflix will host the inaugural lab this spring, with select participants notified by May 31. The application is currently available at transfilmcenter.org and entries are open until April 23 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
