Hollywood Foreign Press Association

One of the most respected film schools in the world, American Film Institute Conservatory (AFI) in Los Angeles offers a stimulating environment and a legacy of success in the filmmaking industry. AFI’s Conservatory offers a Master of Fine Arts degree in which students may focus on Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Production or Screenwriting. Throughout the course of the two-year program, students write, shoot, edit and produce more films than at any other professional film program. Additional programs are offered, such as a course specifically tailored for female directors. AFI’s alumni are some of the most respected leaders in the film industry, many of them having received Academy Awards and Lifetime Achievement Awards. Students have the opportunity to hear these and other industry leaders give talks at such events as the famous AFI Fest. Since the 1970’s AFI has also been responsible for honoring filmmakers and actors with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement award. With its top-notch alumni and instructors, AFI comes with some of the most valuable connections to the film industry. The location, too, being at the center of film and television production, offers its graduates access to more employment opportunities than most other cities. Admissions at AFI are highly competitive, with the school only accepting a small percentage of its large number of applicants yearly. When applying for admission to AFI, you may also file an application for financial aid. The school offers a limited number of school scholarships to those who qualify based on merit and need.

California State University, Northridge is a public, comprehensive university in the California State University system, located on a 356-acre campus in the heart of Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley, with a diverse community of 38,310 students and more than 4,000 faculty and staff, and it is committed to helping students achieve educational and professional goals and to serving the community.

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a renowned public research university offering comprehensive academic programs across various fields. It is known for its prestigious School of Medicine and highly regarded Film School, with notable alumni in both industries. UCLA also excels in liberal arts, sciences, humanities, and professional programs such as Education, Architecture, Engineering, Public Affairs, and Law. The university provides financial aid to qualified students and offers continuing education courses taught by published scholars. Located in Westwood, Los Angeles, UCLA boasts a vibrant student life with numerous on-campus organizations and nearby cultural attractions.

Film2Future (F2F) is a nonprofit, professional-level filmmaking program for under-served teenagers in Los Angeles. Its mission is to diversify the entertainment industry workforce and inspire future filmmakers.

Get Lit - Words Ignite combines classical and spoken word poetry to promote teen literacy on the page and in visual media. Their aim is to inspire a sense of social consciousness in diverse communities.

California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), founded in 1970 and located in Valencia, California, is a non-profit educational institution renowned for its commitment to artistic innovation. As the first school to offer Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees, CalArts provides a diverse range of programs across various artistic disciplines, including visual arts, dance, film, theatre performance, and creative writing. Its programs in photography and graphic design are ranked among the top ten in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. CalArts emphasizes experimental and bold approaches to art, fostering creativity through unique offerings such as interdisciplinary degrees that allow students to engage in multiple artistic fields. Financial aid options, including student loans, grants, and scholarships, are available to eligible students, supporting the pursuit of artistic education in a collaborative and innovative environment.

The Cinémathèque Française is a non-profit cinema organization based in France that has one of the world's largest libraries of film records and related artefacts. The archive, which is based in Paris, hosts daily screenings of films from around the world.

Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) is a nonprofit pediatric care facility established in 1901, recognized for its exceptional clinical services. It has earned the distinction of being the best children's hospital on the West Coast and ranks among the top five in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. CHLA is dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare to children and is home to The Saban Research Institute, one of the largest and most productive pediatric research centers in the United States. Through its commitment to clinical excellence and research, CHLA plays a vital role in advancing pediatric medicine and improving health outcomes for children.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting press freedom globally and defending the rights of journalists to report without fear of retaliation. Established in 1981 by U.S. correspondents, CPJ advocates for journalists who face attacks, imprisonment, violence, and censorship. The organization takes action in response to threats against journalists, ensuring the free flow of news and commentary. Its inaugural advocacy campaign in 1982 highlighted the plight of three British journalists arrested in Argentina during the Falklands War, with a notable letter from Honorary Chairman Walter Cronkite aiding in their release. Annually, CPJ hosts the International Press Freedom Awards to honor journalists who demonstrate extraordinary courage under duress. Through its initiatives, CPJ aims to raise awareness of the challenges facing journalists and to foster a safer environment for press professionals worldwide.

Los Angeles City College (LACC) is a highly accessible community college, conveniently located near many Los Angeles neighborhoods. Academics are comprehensive and include professional and academic degree programs as well as highly respected performing arts programs. LACC is located between Koreatown and Hollywood, close to downtown Los Angeles. It is also within blocks of the subway and the 101 freeway. At LACC, you can get an occupational degree in fields like: * Computer Technology * Dental Technology * Nursing * Radiologic Technology Students who wish to transfer may choose to get an associate’s in an academic subject like: * English * Foreign Languages * History * Psychology LACC has also garnered an excellent reputation for its Theatre Arts department. The LACC theatre academy offers a two-year intensive program, which has trained numerous professional film and stage actors. Since it is competitive, applicants must audition and interview for admissions. The school also has a respected film department, where students may learn the basics of filmmaking before transferring to such prestigious film schools as UCLA and USC. College life includes student theatre performances and opportunities to participate in student clubs and associations. LACC has an open admissions policy, which means that applicants to most programs need only have a high school diploma or GED. Certain departments, like nursing, have additional admissions requirements. LACC offers federal financial aid, including grants and loans. They also offer a grant to students from non-traditional backgrounds. Financial aid advisors can assist aid applicants with the FAFSA and the financial aid process.

IndieCollect is a film preservation organization founded by Sandra Schulberg in 2010.

The Actors' Gang is a theatre-based education & training platform that deals in theatre services.

Founded in 1984, American Cinematheque is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating cinema as an art form. Based in Los Angeles, it presents diverse film programming and hosts live events at historic theaters like the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood and the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles (BBBSLA) is a youth empowerment organization whose mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

Santa Monica College (SMC) in Santa Monica, California, is a community college with a national reputation for quality academics, high transfer rates and great creative arts programs. SMC's more than 80 programs of study encompass such academic majors as: * Business * Design Technology * Modern Languages * Psychology * Theatre Arts Students may also pursue a professional program in fields like Nursing and Cosmetology or undertake an ESL study program. Many SMC students transfer to such schools as UCLA and other universities within the UC system. SMC's student life is vibrant and affords many creative arts opportunities. Students may perform with SMC's well-known theatre company, work at the student-run radio station or exhibit their visual art at one of the student galleries. SMC has an open admissions policy, which means that anyone may register by simply filling out an admissions application. Certain degree programs have additional admissions requirements. California residents pay a substantially reduced tuition. Financial aid is also available to students who meet income and other eligibility requirements. To obtain such aid sources as grants and loans, applicants must submit a FAFSA.

NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) is a community organization that works to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons as well as eliminate race-based discrimination. NAACP was founded in 1909 and is based in Baltimore, Maryland.

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is a comprehensive public university situated on a 322-acre campus. It is recognized for its distinguished faculty, successful alumni, and a diverse student body, all of which contribute to a vibrant learning environment. CSULB emphasizes the creation of educational opportunities and fosters creativity among its students. The institution is committed to preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate and succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape. CSULB's reputation for academic excellence makes it a significant contributor to higher education in California.

National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) is a women-led civil rights organization dedicated to eliminating hate, discrimination, and racism toward the Latinx community.

At Film Independent they mission is to champion the cause of independent film and support a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation and uniqueness of vision. Film Independent helps filmmakers make their movies, builds an audience for their projects and works to diversify the film industry. Film Independent’s Board of Directors, filmmakers, staff, and constituents, is comprised of an inclusive community of individuals across ability, age, ethnicity, gender, race and sexual orientation. Anyone passionate about film can become a member, whether you are a filmmaker, industry professional or a film lover. Film Independent produces the Spirit Awards, the annual celebration honoring artist-driven films and recognizing the finest achievements of American independent filmmakers. Film Independent also produces the Los Angeles Film Festival, showcasing the best of American and international cinema and the Film Independent at LACMA Film Series, a year-round, weekly program that offers unique cinematic experiences for the Los Angeles creative community and the general public. With over 250 annual screenings and events, Film Independent provides access to a network of like-minded artists who are driving creativity in the film industry. Film Independent’s Artist Development program offers free Labs for selected writers, directors, producers and documentary filmmakers and presents year-round networking opportunities. Project Involve is Film Independent’s signature program dedicated to fostering the careers of talented filmmakers from communities traditionally underrepresented in the film industry.

California State University, Fullerton, established in 1957, is a prominent university located in Fullerton, California. It functions as an intellectual and cultural hub for Southern California, playing a crucial role in workforce and economic development. The university is recognized for its commitment to fostering student success through innovative educational approaches and high-impact co-curricular experiences, including collaborative research initiatives between faculty and students. Cal State Fullerton aims to be a national model in higher education, emphasizing the importance of academic excellence and community engagement.

Founded in 1947, California State University, Los Angeles is a comprehensive public university dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good. It offers nationally recognized programs across various fields, serving over 28,000 students and boasting more than 245,000 alumni.

Los Angeles Valley College, in Valley Glen, CA is an ideal place for those living in or around the San Fernando Valley who are unemployed and looking for a new, in-demand career or seeking a four-year education. With over 140 associate degree and certificate programs, L.A. Valley College’s fields of study lead to promising careers in Pharmacy Tech, Business, Home Health, Nursing, Fire Technology, Respiratory Therapy and Computer Science among others. Attuned to the needs of Los Angeles County, L.A. Valley College also offers a unique and exciting job training program through its groundbreaking Job Training Institute. Through this division, students as well as local residents may attend career clubs, or enroll in an internship program to improve job skills and opportunities. Also available to students is career counseling, which is organized into one-on-one meetings with a professional career counselor. Students who wish to transfer to a four-year school also have much to choose from at Valley. Associate’s degrees in General Studies, as well as such academic areas as Art, Engineering, English, Foreign Languages, Humanities, Jewish Studies, Psychology and many others may all be found at Valley as well. Though tuition is lower for in-state residents, eligible students may also receive partial or full financial aid through such sources as Pell grants, state grants, loans and scholarships.

California State University, Dominguez Hills is a community of learners and educators who collaborate to improve the lives of individuals and communities. They are dedicated to providing their students with an affordable, and transformative education while also serving as a valuable resource for talent, knowledge, skills, and leadership in their communities. CSU Dominguez Hills is committed to connecting students to opportunities that will help them thrive today and tomorrow by providing a diverse and welcoming environment, strong academic programmes, dedicated faculty mentors, supportive staff, and appealing campus amenities.

For those in Southern California who want to pursue a degree in a medical field, Cerritos College is the place to be. Located in Norwalk between Los Angeles and Anaheim, Cerritos College is the only two-year school in Los Angeles County that offers pre-study programs to prepare you for one of many advanced medical degrees. Pre-physical therapy, pre-chiropractic, pre-veterinary and pre-pharmacy tech are some of the pre-study academics offered at Cerritos College. These programs allow you to start the process towards an advanced medical degree without incurring the expense. Each of these specific programs is organized to help you transfer to a university program with ease. Each department provides a list of the pre-study courses you will need to take at Cerritos before transferring. They also provide links on their website to all of the universities that offer your program. In addition to these pre-study programs, Cerritos College offers a number of other associate's degrees and certificates in business, computers, arts and sciences, among others. Cerritos College supports its students, regardless of their major, with options to make college life simple, such as career services, tutoring, learning resources, and transfer counseling. Cerritos College financial aid is available to those who qualify for tuition assistance based on need, academic merit and other factors.

The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) is a non-profit organization that unites investigative journalists from over 70 countries to conduct collaborative inquiries into cross-border crime, corruption, and the accountability of power. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., ICIJ facilitates the production of in-depth multimedia reports that uphold high standards of fairness and accuracy. The organization comprises a network of more than 190 journalists who work together to share insights, methodologies, and best practices in investigative journalism. ICIJ members actively participate in global conferences and events, where they disseminate their findings and discuss the tools and lessons learned during their investigations, thereby fostering a better understanding of collaborative journalism practices worldwide.

The Latino Film Institute (LFI) showcases, strengthens, and celebrates the richness of Latino lives by providing a pipeline, platform, and launching pad from our community into the entertainment industry.

Los Angeles Press Club involves the public in recognizing journalists, which encourages them. Through the sponsorship of events, the Club offers a venue for journalists to congregate, network, and learn from one another. It represents all journalists working for publications like newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and the Internet.

Exceptional Minds is a school and professional studio that prepares individuals with autism for careers in animation and visual effects, a unique nonprofit organization now serving a population that is underrepresented in the workforce.

InsideClimate News is a Pulitzer prize-winning, non-profit, non-partisan news organization that covers clean energy, carbon energy, nuclear energy and environmental science—plus the territory in between where law, policy and public opinion are shaped. Their mission is to produce clear, objective stories that give the public and decision-makers the information they need to navigate the heat and emotion of climate and energy debates. They have grown from a founding staff of two to a mature virtual newsroom of ten full time professional journalists and a growing network of contributors. They are aiming to double in size and come to full scale in the next two years. Climate and energy are defining issues of their time, yet most media outlets are now hard-pressed to devote sufficient resources to environmental and investigative reporting. Their goal is to fill this growing national deficiency and contribute to the accurate public understanding so crucial to the proper functioning of democracy.