Rachel Miller, founder of Film2Future, joins Dr. Laura Scherck Wittcoff to discuss how her nonprofit is revolutionizing access to the entertainment industry for underserved LA youth. Rachel shares her personal journey, from discovering filmmaking at 16, to creating a comprehensive, completely free program that removes barriers to entry for talented teenagers from low-income backgrounds. The episode explores Film2Future's innovative hybrid model, industry partnerships, and the transformative impact on students' careers and lives.
Key Topics Discussed
Rachel's Background & Inspiration
- Discovered filmmaking by chance at age 16 during a community service event
- Interned for legendary producer Deborah Hill
- Taught public school in Manhattan and witnessed firsthand the economic divide affecting students' opportunities
- Founded Film2Future in 2016 to address systemic barriers to entry in Hollywood
The Problem Film2Future Solves
- Film school costs $80,000+ annually, with additional expenses for equipment, portfolios, and tutoring
- Industry leaders struggle to find "qualified, diverse candidates" ready to work
- The real issue: lack of accessible pathways for underserved youth, not lack of talent
- Solution: Start in high school so students are career-ready by 18
The Film2Future Model
- Completely free program providing computers, Wi-Fi, headphones, backpacks, supplies, food, and transportation
- Hybrid approach: remote learning + in-person days at partner companies (Disney, Sony, etc.)
- 25-30 student cohorts recruited from across LA County's most underserved schools
- No portfolio required for application; focus on creativity and point of view
Four Core Programs
- Animation
- Live Action Filmmaking
- Emerging Technologies (VR, podcasting, gaming)
- Advertising
Life Skills Integration
- Financial literacy
- Resume writing and LinkedIn development
- Professional communication and email etiquette
- Networking and pitching skills
- Interview preparation
Success & Impact
- 140+ paid internships and production assistant roles
- 225+ students served since 2016
- $2+ million in college scholarships earned
- Alumni hiring other alumni, creating sustainable career pipeline
- Notable success: Student with physical disabilities received a full-ride to NYU Tisch after creating the award-winning short
COVID-19 Innovation
- First production up and running during the pandemic
- Created proprietary tech pods and safety protocols
- Shot five shorts with zero infections
- Demonstrated organizational resilience and adaptability
Key Takeaways
- Diversity in entertainment isn't just about goodness—it's better for business and creativity
- Removing barriers at the pipeline level (high school) is more effective than trying to hire diversity later
- Life skills training is as important as technical skills in the entertainment industry
- Building community among students creates sustainable mentorship networks
- Multiple ways to get involved with nonprofits beyond monetary donations
Resources & Contact
Website: Film2Future.org
YouTube: Film2Future Channel (to view student shorts)
Instagram: @Film2Future
Contact: Available through website
Guest Bio
Rachel Miller is the founder of Film2Future and, founding partner of Haven Entertainment, a production and management company. She's also an executive producer on Netflix's "Devil in Ohio" and has sold 28+ manuscripts to publishers. She speaks regularly at UCLA, NYU, AFI, and international film festivals about diversity in entertainment.
For more great Small & Gutsy Episodes: www.smallandgutsy.org/episodes
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