TAKE ONE FILM MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
SYE COHORT (Summer Youth Employment Program)
Application Deadline May 20th, 2026
The Take One Youth Film Mentorship Program, powered by The Philadelphia Film Factory (Philm Factory) in partnership with We Embrace Fatherhood, provides Philadelphia youth, particularly those from underrepresented communities, with paid workforce development opportunities, hands-on film training, and mentorship in the film, media, and entertainment industry.
Youth participants are paired with industry professionals and mentors who provide real-world guidance, instruction, and exposure throughout the filmmaking process. Participants collaborate to develop and produce an original film from concept to completion.
The Take One SYE Cohort is supported through a workforce development partnership with the Urban Affairs Coalition’s Spark Youth Engagement Program, an initiative of the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYE), funded by the U.S. Department of Labor under the Road to Employment Through Career Awareness and Exposure initiative.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Ages: 14–21
Participants gain hands-on experience in a professional film production environment while exploring multiple departments, including:
- Camera Department
- Talent Department
- Assistant Directing
- Art Department
- Directing
- Screenwriting
- Editing
- Media Production & Content Creation
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
Filmmaking combines creativity with essential workforce development skills. Participants will build:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Communication and collaboration
- Leadership and teamwork
- Planning, budgeting, and organization
- Public speaking and presentation skills
- Adaptability and decision-making under production pressure
Because film production requires coordination across multiple roles and departments, participants learn how to collaborate in real time while contributing to a shared creative goal.
With a strong focus on youth violence prevention and mental health awareness, the program equips participants with creative education, career training, and personal development designed to support safer, healthier, and more promising futures. By offering positive alternatives and professional exposure, the program empowers youth with tangible skills and industry guidance while supporting both creative and personal growth.
WHO WE ARE
Philm Factory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing local independent filmmakers, residents, and youth with educational and economic opportunities to gain real-world experience in film and media production.
Through structured programs including training initiatives, workshops, community events, creative projects, live performances, film festivals, and field experiences, Philm Factory cultivates a diverse community of emerging filmmakers and creative professionals across both above-the-line and below-the-line roles.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE & LOCATIONS
Participants receive foundational training in key film departments and learn the fundamentals of filmmaking.
JUNE 27th 2026 – Mandatory Orientation
Participant required (Guardian required if under 18)
Group: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Via email you will be given a time slot for your arrival
JUNE — Film Training Sessions (4 Days)
Mondays, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
June 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2026
Location:
The Provident Building – Public Health Management Corporation
4601 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19139
The campus is accessible via public transportation, including multiple bus routes and the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line (46th Street Station), which is within walking distance.
JULY — INTERNSHIP PHASE (6 Weeks)
Participants transition into pre-production and production, actively developing and filming original projects.
Schedule:
Tuesdays & Thursdays — 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Tuesdays:
June 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28
Thursdays:
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Location:
3.0 University Place
4101 Market Street, Suite 200
Philadelphia, PA 19104
AUGUST — Professional Development & Industry Exposure (5 Sessions)
Participants engage in career readiness and industry exposure opportunities throughout the city.
Includes guest speakers, site visits, industry partnerships, and virtual sessions (schedule varies based on availability).
Schedule:
5 professional development sessions
Approximately 2 hours each, once per week
STIPEND – $500
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a $500 stipend in recognition of their participation and commitment.
RED CARPET SCREENING & AWARD CEREMONY
The Red Carpet Screening will take place in the fall, traditionally hosted at the Academy of Natural Sciences, featuring a red carpet premiere and an awards ceremony celebrating the films created by program participants.
LEARN ABOUT OUR DEPARTMENTS
