Film can open our minds to hard truths and move us to action. At Brave New Films, we tell stories that mobilize people to make a difference. We believe that it takes both good films and motivated activists to promote change around social justice issues.

It’s no secret that certain groups of people are underrepresented in mainstream media. What is the impact of this on our political and social discourse? It makes the lens through which we see the world very narrow. How would this perspective be different if underrepresented groups could shape their own narratives in the media and advocate for concerns important to them? Which issues would gain attention and whose stories would be heard?

We recognize the absence of diverse voices in this storytelling process. We also know that there are activist storytellers from underrepresented communities out there who want to create and distribute media that tells their narratives and reaches all audiences more effectively.

This is why we started the Brave New Fellows Program. Our program offers social justice advocates from communities of color and/or economically marginalized communities a one year, paid opportunity to work with Brave New Films and learn how to create and distribute media that makes a difference. By working alongside experienced staff, fellows build practical skills in digital storytelling, production, post-production, campaign strategies, outreach, and social media. Fellows spend the majority of the year in one of three areas: outreach, post-production, or social media. In the last two months they rotate through the other two areas. The fellowship equips activists to use film to support activism, and prepares them for  jobs in social justice advocacy, media, and filmmaking.

To complement the on-the-job learning, fellows also meet and network with film directors, activists, journalists, politicians and organizers, and they receive training in camera operation, database management, fundraising, and more.

As compensation, each fellow receives $772/week for the duration of the fellowship, medical and dental insurance, and holidays/hiatus pay. Fellows work full time (M-F, 9:00-6:00) in our Culver City, CA office. 

For non US residents, we will assist with visa/immigration processing and can compensate a portion of travel. However, relocation/housing is not provided by Brave New Films. 

Should you apply?

This fellowship is a perfect fit, if you….

Hear From The 2016 Fellows...

How to apply:

Begin the process by carefully reading through the position descriptions below for outreach, post-production, and social media, and decide which one best fits your interests and skills. This is the one area in which you would like to spend the majority of the fellowship year. Then, complete and submit the application form by Friday, August 5th, 6:00 PM (PST). 

Timeline: 

June 20 – Application process opens
August 5 - Completed applications due by 6pm*
August 8-22 - Review of applications and interviews
August 31 – Outside panel selects finalists
September 9 – Contact finalists
January 9 - 2017 Program begins 

Have a question? Please contact us at [email protected]

Brave New Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employs without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, handicap or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.