CENTER FOR CREATIVE WORKFORCE EQUITy FAQ

This page answers Frequently Asked Questions about our the programs of our Center for Creative Workforce Equity. You’ll find a direct link to the FAQ for the subject you are interested in, below.

Pre-Apprenticeship FAQ | Job Placements FAQ | Other Programs FAQ

Venice Arts’ PRE-APPRENTICESHIP Program

The following answers frequently asked questions about our Editing and Digital Storytelling Pre-Apprenticeship programs. If your question is not asked and answered, please reach out via email, here.

  • Our Pre-Apprenticeship programs are specifically designed for LA County’s low-income young people, ages 18-24, who are interested, and near-ready to work in the creative sectors. After you graduate from the program, you are required to work with our recruiter to get placed in a job.

    Priority is given to those who are BIPOC, LGBTQIA, and/or have been foster, unhoused, or justice-involved youth.

  • Pre-Apprenticeship programs occur in the spring and fall of each year. Please consider subscribing to our eNews, below, or following us on social media to receive timely updates. You can also check here for more information!

    Master Classes are designed for alumni of both our Center for Creative Workforce Equity and our Media Arts Education & Mentoring programs, and are offered each summer.

  • In-person at our Center in Venice: 13445 Beach Ave, Venice, CA 90292

  • The Digital Storytelling Pre-Apprenticeship runs for eight weeks. Students commit to 182 hours, at minimum of training. Days and times may vary, but are generally Tuesday–Friday, 10 am - 5 pm (weeks 1 and 8), and Tuesday- Thursday, 10 am - 5 pm (weeks 2-7). Please see the session application for details.

    In addition to classroom hours, students must complete projects outside of class; participate in Creative Conversations, or its equivalent; and work with our Counselor and/or Job Recruiter to actively search for work.

  • All programs are free-of-charge.

  • If you are not interested in an apprenticeship or job, this program is not for you.

    Participation in the job placement component of the program is required to receive a graduation stipend.

  • Participants in our Pre-Apprenticeship programs receive a stipend for successful participation including an active job search.

  • The stipend varies. Please send an email to our Program Director, AJ Amiri for specific information.

    Please note that stipends are only provided for successful completion of the program, which includes the educational component, working with our recruiter, and a job search.

  • Unfortunately, No.

  • As long as you are under 25 when you complete the program, you will be able to apply.

  • You many not attend the same program twice. However, Digital Storytelling Graduates may apply to the Editing Pre-Apprenticeship. Everyone is welcome to participate in other leaning opportunities and events.

  • No! This program is for young people with the intent to work in the creative sector after graduation from the pre-apprenticeship. While formal education is not required, we will ask you to submit creative work, tell us about your relevant past experience, and discuss your readiness for relevant work

  • The program is designed for all levels and all students graduate with at least foundational knowledge and skill in editing and/or multimedia production. Those who already have a background in these areas will develop and deepen their knowledge and skills. Past participants positively review their experience, post-completion, regardless of skill level at entry.

  • Venice Arts’ Pre-Apprenticeship Certification. You can also sit for the Adobe Premiere Pro Certification.

  • Job search is a requirement after you graduate; you will meet with our recruiter and we will match you to work opportunities, as well as support you in preparing for these. While our goal is apprenticeship or job placement, this is not guaranteed. We help as necessary, however, we cannot grantee a job.

  • No! While enrolled in our Pre-Apprenticeship programs, you will have access to Venice Arts’ equipment and software to complete class-related projects.

  • Yes! Pre-Apprenticeship students may receive help to offset the cost of transportation. Please be sure to indicate that you need help when you apply. Please note that we do not help with transportation for those living in the local area, or for those electing to take ride share vehicles (Uber, Lyft).

Job Placements FAQ

  • All successful graduates of the following programs are eligible for internships:

    • Digital Storytelling Pre-Apprenticeship
    • Editing Pre-Apprenticeship
    • Graduates of our Advanced Studies Programs

    Participants in other programs may be considered on a case by case basis.

  • You are selected based on our assessment of such things as your knowledge, skill, and workplace readiness, and your ability to commit to the full placement. If Venice Arts’ staff think that you are not yet ready to apply for a placement, our Creative Career Counselor will work with you to build the skills necessary for the future.

    You must also be responsive to our recruiter, or other staff when they reach out about work opportunities or career development updates.

    1. Each Company determines whether or not they will hire a candidate from Venice Arts.

    2. Most companies ask to interview at least three candidates for each open position.

    3. A strong resume, cover letter, and portfolio are highly recommended:

      Tailored Résumé and/or Application: Be responsive to the specific internship or job opportunity, highlighting relevant experience and expressing genuine interest in the company's projects or mission.

      Clear and Engaging Content: Keep your cover letter concise yet compelling, showcasing your passion for film and any relevant skills or projects.

      Visual Portfolio: Create a visually appealing portfolio showcasing rele ant work, including projects you've worked on, any short films or clips you've directed, shot or edited, and examples of your other talents. Don’t forget to emphasize your proficiency with business skills and software.

      Cover Letter: Some employers will request a cover letter. This is a great opportunity to highlight how your experience and interest relates to what they are looking for.

      Be sure to have our staff review your résumé, cover letter, and/or portfolio before you apply.

  • You will be paid either through the employer or a Venice Arts partner, such as GEI, JVS, or an AJCC.

    1. If a Venice Arts partner is paying for the placement (“subsidized placement”), the number of hours will be capped. You will be told the number of internship hours available before you apply.

    2. Some employers will extend internship hours, or offer a new internship paid by the company, or hire you.

  • Payroll details will be included in each position description.

  • The wage will be included with each position description.

  • Yes. You must live in LA County. However, If you are going to school outside of the County, but LA remains your primary home, you may qualify for placement.

  • If you are placed on an internship, you may be placed in others depending on circumstances and availability.

  • You will receive an email from Venice Arts. Make sure our emails do not go to your spam folder. A staff member may also contact you directly for a position for which you are especially suited.

    You may also search for placements yourself via online job boards and studio websites. If you find something, please let us know. If we have a contact at the company we may be able to help assure that your résumé is at least reviewed.

    Contact Ajani@venice-arts.org or David@venice-arts.org for further information.

Other Programs FAQ

We couldn’t do it without our partners: The Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and the American Rescue Plan Act; the Golden Globes Foundation,; NBCUniversal Creative Impact Lab; Sony Pictures Entertainment.; and the W.M. Keck Foundation. Special thanks, as well, to our many creative sector partners who provide both learning and work experiences to our participants!