What comes to mind when you think of superheroes? Truth? Justice? Laser vision? For me, I think of power--the power to fly, the power to break the sound barrier, but most importantly, the power to stand up for what you believe in. It was 1939 when author Bill Finger and artist Bob Kane published Detective Comics # 27 , “The Case of the Chemical Syndicate,”  showcasing a new take on what power means.  What was supposed to be just another issue in a mystery-solving series turned out to be revolutionary for comic books and pop culture. Detective Comics #27 changed the trajectory of the comic book world by introducing us to a seemingly powerless superhero, one who goes by many names: the World's Greatest Detective, the Caped Crusader, and even the Dark Knight. But, the name that's meant to strike fear in the hearts of evildoers everywhere is The Batman. September marked the tenth “Batman Day,” held yearly to commemorate the superhero’s impact around the world. Over almost nine decades, we have seen the masked vigilante portrayed in many forms of media by many talented actors. One of the most well-known and beloved actors was award-winning voice actor Kevin Conroy. After performing classic shows on and off Broadway for most of his career, Conroy debuted as the Dark Knight in 1992 with Bruce Timm and Eric Radomski’s Batman: The Animated Series . He continued to share his talents with the world for the next 30 years in various TV shows, movies, and video games.  To many Batman fans, including myself, Conroy didn't simply “play” Batman, he was Batman. He was the only version of the superhero that we knew. I remember hearing his voice in my brother’s video games, or during the Saturday morning reruns of The Animated Series  as a kid and it etched a permanent memory in my brain—if I heard that voice, I was hearing Batman himself.  When I got older and learned more about Conroy’s career I began to appreciate his performances even more. He used his experience of dramatic Shakespearean plays to help bring this noir and true version of The Batman to life, and he is the reason I love this character so much. Fans were devastated to learn about Conroy’s passing in 2022, but we take comfort in the fact that his legacy will live on in his timeless performances as our favorite vigilante. Another one of my favorite portrayals of the caped crusader was The Batman  (2004) created by Michael Goguen and Duane Capizzi. This version of Batman's origins was the cartoon I looked forward to the most every week. It made him more personable and relatable and showed kids (and adults) that even Batman makes mistakes. Watching Bruce try to juggle his duties as the dark knight, be a foster parent to newly-adopted Dick Grayson, and help his best friend Ethan, who was accidentally turned into Clayface, taught me that even though it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, it’s okay to take a step back and show up the best way you can.  We see Bruce’s gentler approach to dealing with his villains; he shows compassion and understanding to those sent to Arkham Asylum. It emphasizes rehabilitation instead of punishment, understanding that everyone is fighting a battle of one sort or another and one should always lead with kindness.  That approach is a key factor in why this is one of my favorite portrayals of Batman’s famed rival, the Clown Prince of Gotham himself, the Joker. Not only is his design edgy yet comical but the character writing, paired with the voice talents of Kevin Michael Richardson, added a very particular depth to a character with such mysterious origins. He wasn’t just an agent of chaos who did things with no rhyme or reason; he was meticulous and intentional with his schemes and some might even argue that he sought justice. This thought-provoking adaptation is criminally underrated and I will always recommend it to anyone who wants to expand their Batman knowledge. Bruce Timm made his return to the franchise with the newest addition to Batman’s animated adaptations,  Batman: Caped Crusader  (2024), which is currently streaming on Prime Video. Staying true to his iconic noir-style animation, Timm keeps things modern and fresh with his choice of adversaries from the Dark Knight’s Rouge Gallery. Appearances from well-known villains like the Penguin, Catwoman, Harley Quinn, and Two-Face were accompanied by less talked about villains such as Onomatopoeia, Gentleman Ghost, Firebug, and Nocturna.  I loved seeing how Batman handled the variety of personas he encountered and having a new villain in every episode was a refreshing approach that showcased the versatility of the vigilante’s crime-fighting techniques. This adaptation takes a different approach to the dynamic between Alfred and Bruce, where Bruce constantly gives Alfred the cold shoulder or dismisses any helpful advice from the retired intelligence agent.  While Timm is undoubtedly planting the seeds for future character growth, this change feels off because Bruce has never seen Alfred as the help. He is much more than a butler; he is a friend. Bruce wouldn't be Batman without Alfred by his side. I would love to see a more positive take be made in future projects. The Caped Crusader  wasn't the only premiere Batman fans had to look forward to in 2024. Matt Reeves’ standalone Gotham universe, starting with 2022’s The Batman , is expanding with a limited series following the rise of underworld boss Oswald Cobblepot, AKA The Penguin.  Reeves found his caped crusader in award-winning actor Robert Pattinson, who used his natural brooding abilities to bring the struggles of Batman’s early years to the big screen. And while we still have the rest of the trilogy to look forward to, the audience is now pivoting its focus onto one of the more prominent members of Gotham’s underbelly, the Penguin, played by Colin Farrell in four hours’ worth of makeup and prosthetics.  In anticipation of the series’ Batman Day weekend premiere, a special showing of The Batman  was released in early September, accompanied by a Bat Signal popcorn bucket and a sneak preview of the first episode of The Penguin . Unfortunately, I couldn't get tickets or the popcorn bucket but I did see the movie three times when it was first released so I have full confidence that Matt Reeves can capture the complexity of Oswald Copplepot in the same manner he did Bruce Wayne. This highly anticipated limited series had a 93% score on Rotten Tomatoes before its premiere. Fans across the country are tuning into the newest episode every Sunday on Max. For 85 years, Bruce Wayne has shown us how to be the best version of ourselves. Whether it be stopping the League of Assassins or simply saving someone’s grandmother from losing her purse, Batman teaches us that helping people is no small feat.  There are countless directions that writers, producers, and directors can take this character in because of what he stands for and represents. I, for one, am extremely excited to see what other projects come from this franchise.  It’s difficult for me to put into words what Batman and his story mean to me, but I feel a specific connection to his vulnerability and his burning desire to act against injustice, just as his parents did and just as his children will do after him. Batman’s superpower is that he still suits up every night to protect the city he loves, the city his family helped build, knowing that he’s a regular human being under all that armor. I think there’s something beautiful in that. You don’t need laser vision or super speed to help change the world, you just need to be willing to get up when life knocks you down. Batman is a billionaire playboy dressed up in a bat suit with a utility belt and he is still one of the greatest, most influential, and relatable superheroes of our lifetime and I will defend him until my lungs give out.

The funky sounds from Kool & The Gang have been bumping through the radio since I was born. I remember riding down the highway of I-20 in Atlanta, Georgia, with my father, Dale Porter, singing his heart out: “Hollywood Swinging.” It's been sixty years since the band was founded by Ohio native brothers Robert “Kool” and Ronald Bell, and it's still kicking. The group known for hit songs like “ Get Down on It ” and “ Ladies Night ” symbolizes an era in music that can never be duplicated. Solidifying their place in music history, the band will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in late October. For Robert Bell, the hour-long journey from his hometown, Youngstown, to Cleveland, Ohio, was a “groovy” ride he will never forget. Dig this walk back down memory lane. SP: Reflecting on Kool & the Gang’s journey, how did each stage of the band’s evolution contribute to the unique sound and identity of the group?   RB: Well, I think it goes back to when we started. We started as the Jazziacs. We listened to people like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Freddie Hubbard. Now the Soul Town Band, we were backing up different groups that were trying to be like Motown. We couldn't use Kool & the Flames because of James Brown & The Famous Flames. We didn't want to have any problems with the Godfather, so we said, “well, let's just change our name.”   SP: Are there any behind-the-scenes stories or experiences from the making of the group’s most iconic tracks like “Get Down on It,” “ Jungle Boogie ,” or “ Hollywood Swinging ”?    RB: The record company came to us and said, "Listen, you guys have been having some territorial hits, like maybe in Connecticut and Virginia" There was this big record called “Soul MaKossa" by Mango Dibango, and they wanted us to work with that producer because that was this huge record. So, we met with the producer, and it wasn't happening. So, we told the record company, “Okay, we're going into the studio and cut some tracks.” And that's when we went to downtown New York. Eight o'clock in the morning when we finished, we had “Jungle Boogie,” “Hollywood Swinging” and “Funky Stuff.” Needless to say, no more problems from the record company. Dick Griffey (record producer and music promoter) of the group Shalamar, sold our records. He said, "You guys are doing great on the tour." But he said, "I think you guys need a lead singer." That's when we brought JT Taylor into the group. I was out hanging in New York, my wife and I, at the Regine's at Studio 54, every weekend they had the ladiese night.   I went back to the guy, JT, and I said, "I got a great idea for a title.” They said, "What?" I said, "Ladies Night." Frankie Crocker (American DJ) in New York broke that record. “Ladies Night" became one of our biggest records, even to the point where we had won two American Music Awards. My brother was listening to the song. He said, "The tag of that song is another song." And he said, "This is your night tonight. Come on, let's all celebrate." I brought us to the studio, which was the track that became “Celebration.” The rest is history.  SP: Absolutely. And speaking of awards, y'all about to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which is a huge accomplishment. And I want to know, how do you think your brother Ronald Bell would've felt about the induction, and what was your reaction to it?   RB:  Well, it's been great because I've called them the Magnificent Seven. All six of my members have passed. I'm the last one of the original members, and we all wanted to get into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I think they're looking down on us right now, and we are getting ready to finally do it. It's been over 60 years and here we come.    SP: Kool & the Gang has been sampled 1900 times, specifically in hip-hop. How do you feel about your band being a blueprint in a genre that many may find controversial?   RB: Questlove (American drummer and record producer) told me.  I said, "What Quest, I need to put somebody on a sample patrol." That means that we're the most sampled band in the world because hip-hop is dominant. I mean, we were [also] sampled by Madonna, Janet Jackson, various writers and producers have sampled our music.   SP: What do you want the group's legacy to be years from now? RB: Well, our story, how we survived, and the fact that we're still here. I lost six of my guys, but I'm on tour with what I call the Magnificent 10. That's a blessing. SP: Your brother, Ronald, is also responsible for helping to discover one of the most legendary rap groups, The Fugees. How did that come about? RB:  We feel very good about that. The Fugees came to our camp. Lauren and Pras and Wyclef and all of them. We all were in the studio in Jersey called The House of Music. We discovered Color Me Badd. We came into Oklahoma, and the guys came up and said, "Oh, we're doing good in school, we're cool, but we're going to sing something for you." And they sang, so we sent them to New York, and we produced the album for them. We discovered Pink also, my brother and my cousin. And here's one more for you who grew up with us, Teddy Riley. SP: What would you tell a young artist who wants to have a long-standing career such as yourself and the band?  RB: I would first say they have to be serious about it. They should try to be as original as they possibly can. In other words, only the strong survive. Don't give up. Keep on moving the groove.  SP: Lastly, with y'all induction coming up in October. Describe Kool & the Gang in a few words. RB: We are going to keep the funk alive.  NOTE: Kool & The Gang will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Saturday, Oct.19 at 7 p.m. at the Rocket Mortgage Field House in Cleveland, Ohio. Purchase your tickets, HERE.

Before Wattpad, fanfiction.net , or Archive of Our Own, 11-year-old Jake Black wrote “Star Trek” fanfiction–by hand, and sent it to Bob Greenberger, the editor of Star Trek  comics. To young Jake’s delight, Greenberger replied, gave him feedback, and advised, “If you want to write, write every day.” Black has done just that and it has served him well. Today, he is an award-winning writer who has worked for some of the biggest brands in pop culture and entertainment, including Star Trek, WWE, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Supergirl, Smallville, Umbrella Academy, Adventure Time, Steven Universe, and many, many more. Black’s 20-year writing career extends to all forms of media, including digital/social media, TV, books, comic books, print, trading cards, etc.  “I’ve done TV, I’ve done comic books, I’ve done books, I’ve done magazine articles, I’ve done random things like trading cards… I just write ,” he explained in a recent Leadership Talk hosted by FUTURE NOW CEO and Founder, Peggy Kim.  Currently, he works at Paramount as a writer and producer of long and short-form digital creative content supporting the various shows and brands across Paramount+, Showtime, CBS Studios, and Pluto TV, including writing special features for the new and old “Star Trek” series.  Black’s origin story is an unconventional one. “I was originally a theater kid,” he shared, which “taught me how to tell stories.” He worked as a stage manager doing summer stock in his native Utah before a “nuclear breakup” with a girlfriend spurred him to get out of town for a while. He was driving when he heard a radio ad promoting a new Superman show called Smallville .   In that moment, he declared, “I’m going to go work on Smallville .” He had grown up loving Superman and superheroes of all shapes and sizes. It was a no brainer. But how? Black tracked down the production company, found a phone number, made cold calls, and hoped someone would give him a chance. The same can-do spirit that inspired him as an 11-year-old to write to the editor of Star Trek  comics was alive and well. Soon, Black was on a plane to Los Angeles to work as an intern on the iconic Warner Brothers lot. When they asked what he wanted to do, the answer was simple. “Write,” he said. One day, executive producers Alfred Gough and Miles Millar gathered the interns and production assistants into their office and gave them the chance to pitch episodes. Black, buzzing with ideas, returned the next day with a dozen pitches. “None of them were good,” he laughed, but “it showed initiative.” The producers invited him to sit in the writers’ room and observe. “I would just sit there, and… they would give me advice on storytelling.” Soon, Black got to do more and started writing for the Smallville -affiliated websites. “They were newspapers, like the town newspaper, and it would tease stuff that’s coming in the show and talk about… the fallout from the previous episodes, that sort of thing,” he explained, “and that just blossomed into this career.” The website even won the Promax Award—now the Global Entertainment Marketing Award—for best use of the website, a notable industry honor. This led to other opportunities like writing for Smallville  comics. Once his internship ended, Black continued in that role and eventually produced and wrote DVD features for the show. His connections kept growing, and soon, Black was writing for DC Comics and animation, including shows for Cartoon Network and Fox.  Today, in addition to his work at Paramount, Black teaches classes at the University of Connecticut and takes freelance writing gigs. One day he might be lecturing students about writing for marketing, and the next, he’s pitching a “Rick and Morty” comic about an alien planet worshiping Rick as a god. The varied nature of Black’s career and the forms of storytelling he has engaged in throughout have kept him active and versatile. “If you learn how to tell a story,” he explained, “you can write no matter what the format is because ultimately that’s what we do.  We tell stories.” He recalled what Smallville  writer Michael Green (who has gone on to write films such as Logan  and Blade Runner 2049 ) once told him. “We just sit around and say, ‘What would Clark Kent do?’” That approach not only works for Smallville, but for every story. Swap out “Clark Kent” for any number of things—what would Spock do? What would this WWE character do? What would Ronald McDonald do? By putting himself in the mind of the character, Black can write for whomever or whatever he wishes, even brands. “A brand is a character,” he explained. “A brand is the voice….If you view the brand as a living being with its voice, that’s how you’re going to be effective.”  Black also shared some advice from comic book writer Mark Waid, who once told him, “You need two of three skills to be really successful in life… if you have two of the three, you’re going to succeed. First one, you need to be the most brilliant creator that has ever lived. Second one, you need to be a joy to work with. And the third one is you need to be fast and never miss a deadline.”  “I am not the most brilliant creator that’s ever lived,” Black said with a laugh, “but people like to work with me… and I’m fast and reliable.” As he put it, “Life’s too short to be a jerk,” and in an industry built on networking, it pays to be nice.  Even when others might behave badly, Black leans into empathy. “We’re all in this together and we’re ultimately on the same team.”  “[Empathy is] a strength that can build relationships. And, ultimately, this business is about relationships.”  Sharing some final thoughts, Black acknowledged that the media industry might seem like Fort Knox–formidable and impenetrable, but there are always holes in the fence. “Find that hole in the fence,” he said. “Learn what your skills are. Where can I improve? What can I offer? And then find somewhere to offer it.”  “Find those opportunities to network,” he added, and “participate in activities and situations where professionals are available, and then don’t be scared to ask them the question, ‘What should I do?’” You never know the opportunities that will present themselves.

I came in not knowing what to expect but left with new friends  - all very talented, knowledge about the industry, and advice that I'll remember for a lifetime. I've left with new perspectives and confidence  in my journey and the many options I can take to get there. - Y. Serville, Temple University It was a very insightful, encouraging, and fruitful experience . Many relationships and opportunities have blossomed as a result, and my foot is in doors I have never imagined possible . From start to end, I have reached milestones of insight and curiosity. It was truly a remarkable experience . - B. Zumba, University of Wisconsin-Madison It was my first big conference  and I have to say it's been so insanely rewarding . The panels were insightful with a wide variety of discussion topics. The mentoring sessions were invaluable, and the media tours were such a special treat as well! I also met many eager and passionate peers with whom I had mutually supportive conversations with. I feel welcomed and better equipped  now as I enter the industry. I feel so lucky to have experienced it all. - C. Hsu, Pace University I had the honor and privilege to attend the FNMEC for the second year in a row, and it was just as empowering  as the last- if not more so! - C. Augustin, Babson College Because of this conference, I was able to finally feel comfortable in my career and fully believe that I will make it far. It has truly changed the course of my life . - C. Ruiz, Temple University I met so many generous industry professionals and forged invaluable new connections  with other uprising professionals. I will never forget these days, and the connections and lessons formed from them will be invaluable to my career moving forward. We are the future! - G. Lopez, Ringling College of Art and Design It was a truly inspiring  experience receiving mentorshi p from industry professionals and networking with creative peers that share the passion for the industry. I was able to network, learn, and grow as a professional. Thank you for the unforgettable opportunity! The conference was a life-changing experience  to me. - L. Lee, University of California, Berkeley Thank you for creating a space for diverse future leaders in media and entertainment. I'm so grateful to have found such a wonderful organization like Future Now. I loved getting a behind-the-scenes look into the different aspects of radio and was impressed by the organization‘s level of collaboration . - V. Feliciano, University of Miami Attending this conference has completely changed my perspective and has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities  in the media and entertainment industry. I have made meaningful connections with leaders in the media and entertainment industry, and have come to understand the industry itself better. I am much more confident in my future and what lies ahead, now that I have had exposure to an industry I knew I wanted to work in yet was unfamiliar with. - C. Cantada, Pepperdine University It truly was a memorable success. Thank you so much again for orchestrating a phenomenal conference . - S. Gorman, University of Connecticut I am privileged to have been able to listen in to these leaders through keynotes, conversations, and panel discussions. I aim to bring everything that I have learned from this conference forward with me to improve my professional, technical, and personal growth . As a student trying to establish myself in the US, the last 3 days at this conference have been invaluable to establishing my network and strengthening my core values . - O. Baker, Denison University I not only had the time of my life , I’ve grown as a person and leader . Please follow Future Now and choose to grow at next year’s conference. 100/10 experience , would go again!! - I. Williams, Temple University Thank you for creating FUTURE NOW. It is very inspiring and encouraging to speak with and learn directly from the professionals who found and elevated their careers through FUTURE NOW. At the end of each day of the conference, I felt more and more enlightened . I am very grateful for this opportunity. I am very eager to return and contribute  because I also want to tell incoming alumni that I have my dream career because of FUTURE NOW. - B. Zumba, University of Wisconsin-Madison I gained insightful perspectives from mentors dedicated to supporting the next generation of media professionals. I also had the pleasure of meeting many impressive peers  throughout the conference, and I look forward to staying in touch with them. A heartfelt thank you to Margaret Kim and the FUTURE NOW team for putting together such an outstanding event . Your passion and dedication made this experience truly unforgettable. - O. Dabinett, Williams College I could not have anticipated the plethora of knowledge and industry insights I gained during this incredible experience . - M. Hinrichs-Morrow, Washington University in St. Louis I went in feeling as if I had to compete to stand out but I left the Conference feeling supported by a newfound support group . You created a safe space where I never felt overlooked or overshadowed and for that, I say thank you. - E. Baltazar, Fordham University As a first-generation student , this is an invaluable opportunity  for me to immerse myself in the entertainment industry, connect with existing leaders and professionals, and expand my network . - S. Lee, University of Wisconsin-Madison It was a remarkable experience  getting to connect with other like-minded, young creatives and learn from established industry professionals. I'm beyond inspired to strive for higher and excited to make the most of the connections I made. - A. Otchere, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor This conference provided invaluable insights into the professional day-to-day setting of the media industry , which I had not previously been exposed to. This experience has helped reshape my academic focus for the upcoming Fall semester, and I now have a better idea of what potential opportunities can come. This was my first-ever networking event , and I am grateful that FutureNOW was there to help me learn and ease into the environment in such an uplifting way . - D. Feliciano Riegel, Ivy Tech Community College It was an unforgettable experience . - K. Khan, DeVry University I fully believe in FUTURE NOW and its mission . - M. Kirk, Ringling College of Art and Design I was able to get behind-the-scenes access  to the industry’s leading companies and professionals. From visiting the offices of powerhouses in the film industry , such as Warner Bros and Paramount Pictures, to being on the set of Good Morning America, and engaging with our esteemed speakers and mentors. This experience gave me invaluable insights into a fascinating industry and I hope to learn more in the future! - C. Murdick, University of Michigan I gained such valuable insight about my career in media from industry leaders and my peers alike. Thank you to Margaret Kim for working tirelessly to create a space like this which fosters diversity  in the future of media business. A wonderful week of networking  and learning the ins and outs of the media business  from top industry professionals. I truly had the most wonderful time and was able to learn so much just by being here. - M. Vance, Howard University This was my second year attending, and I truly gained even more invaluable insights and experience . From the volunteers to the speakers and mentors, everyone made this conference an absolute dream . - C. de la Masa, University of Wisconsin-Madison What an amazing experience ! Could not be more grateful to be part of the FUTURE NOW Media Foundation, Inc. community for 2 years running. I would highly encourage every student who is interested in the media & entertainment industry to start following Future Now and plan to attend the conference next year. - D. Galvez-Cepeda, Williams College I found it eye-opening and a great way to segment from college life to the real world . I was able to network, learn, and grow as a professional. I am beyond grateful for the remarkable experience and all the precious connections  I was able to make. - N. Protopsalti, Ringling College of Art and Design This conference gave me a spark that I will continue chasing , whether it be through journalism, filmmaking, or the corporate space. - E. Jing, Williams College I listened in on insightful panels. I also had interesting group conversations during the speed mentoring sessions and Networking Reception. I am happy to say I was able to gain a lot of knowledge ; and some more direction  for the future of the entertainment industry. - J. Gerken, Ithaca College I was able to connect  with various employers and network  with many throughout the media and entertainment industry! I had a great time learning about the business  and what’s in store for the future! - J. Boothe, University of Connecticut-Stamford I visited the FNMEC for the second time, it was an incredible experience ! I had the amazing opportunity to meet my fellows and learn from the insights of top-tier professionals about the latest trends in the entertainment industry. One of the highlights was the media tour at the Paramount office. - Z. Aheyeva, Pace University I am leaving this conference with so much inspiration and warmth  from the students and industry leaders you have invited. By cultivating a supportive industry community , you have further fueled my passion within media and entertainment. - C. Xie, Ringling College of Art and Design The advice and expertise of each mentor, panel member, and keynote speaker provided invaluable insight into the multifaceted media world. A quote from the conference that sufficiently summarizes my gratitude for FUTURE NOW and the unfathomable opportunities it presents young adults like myself was said by Margaret Kim herself, “Your network is your net worth, and I feel wealthy.” - C. Sabogal, Fairfield University Thank you for providing me the motivation and confidence  that I will surely require to achieve my dream career within my lifetime. - J. Aguilar, Maryland Institute College of Art As someone who didn't know much about the media and entertainment industry, it was life-changing ! - L. Polina, Agnes Scott College I learned from top industry executives and formed valuable relationships  with future leaders. The conference provided me with insights that will be crucial as I navigate my professional journey. - D. Dixon, Long Island University Working with everyone on the team made me able to see how diligently everyone works  to make the annual conference possible. - H. Kirk, Ringling College of Art and Design

Every year for the past eight years, FUTURE NOW’s Founder and CEO, Margaret “Peggy” Kim, has hosted the FUTURE NOW Media & Entertainment Conference for aspiring professionals to meet and learn from current leaders in the industry. I had the honor of attending the conference as a volunteer, working directly with Peggy, the board members, and all the amazing guests and panelists. It was nothing short of spectacular.  The conference consists of three days: a networking event on day one for everyone to get acquainted; a jam-packed schedule of keynotes, hot topic panels, mentoring sessions, and networking on day two; and, on day three, the opportunity for attendees to go on media tours to visit different companies where they can get a feel for the environment and meet current employees. Paramount hosted this year’s networking event in their Times Square headquarters, and it was the perfect opportunity for students and volunteers like myself to meet our peers and industry leaders in a warm and inviting atmosphere.  As a FUTURE NOW alumna and volunteer, Asca Akiyama reflects on overcoming her initial fear of networking, “FUTURE NOW has taught me that networking isn't just about promoting yourself for future job opportunities. Initially, what made networking daunting for me was its transactional nature. But, volunteering for FUTURE NOW has shifted my approach to one centered on service—giving rather than taking—which makes the experience more human and fulfilling.” Networking can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Asca further explains the benefits of taking a more genuine, human approach, “My standout moment from this year's conference was reconnecting with the attendees and speakers I had the pleasure of meeting last year. Despite only having met them through brief introductions or passing conversations, many of the returning participants remembered me by name, which truly underscores the impact of the conference.”  Whether you meet briefly in a passing conversation or virtual meetings, a genuine approach to making connections can make them more meaningful and less stressful. Prioritize enjoying their time in the moment instead of what might come from this conversation in the future. Day two was hosted in the DotDash Meredith Events Center in New York City and was busy from start to finish. The panels included a variety of topics about the content, business, and technology sides of the industry, exposing students to the breadth of opportunities and roles they might consider.  FUTURE NOW volunteers were tapped as panel moderators, trained and mentored by Peggy, and for a few, it was their first time working the stage as public speakers.  Lawrence Djan, a FUTURE NOW marketing volunteer and graduate of the University of Cincinnati, had the opportunity to interview NFL Super Bowl champ David Tyree for a keynote conversation. Lawrence called the experience “surreal," saying “The conference provided me with a glimpse into the exciting future possible in the media and entertainment space. I hope to one day return as a speaker to share my advice and story with the younger generation.”  Some volunteers, like Anna Harrison, have had the honor of putting a few conference experiences under their belts. Anna, a volunteer editor of THE NOW newsletter, highlights the importance of building peer relationships.  She reflects, “While I moderated a (great) panel and had other volunteer duties, most of my time was spent at the check-in desk, where I was able to get to know other FUTURE NOW volunteers. While I was initially disappointed that I wouldn’t be able to see other panels, that feeling soon evaporated as I got to know everyone whose faces I had only seen over Google Meet. I realized that, while talking with senior professionals in the media industry is invaluable, getting to know your peers is just as worthwhile, and as I chatted with Asca, Kleeyah, Gio, Ciatta, Lawrence, and the other members of the team, I learned just as much as I would have from the panels.”  Anna continues, “The people you sat next to and went to lunch with will be future leaders alongside yourself, so get to know each other and lift each other up. I’m eternally grateful for FUTURE NOW, not only for giving me access to such an amazing conference but for introducing me to like-minded students who have since become fast friends and colleagues.” In the afternoon, we broke for lunch and had our speed mentoring sessions, the biggest opportunity to make personal connections with current industry leaders.  Amid my volunteer duties, I was able to sit at the mentoring table of Sowon Sawyer, Vice President of Editorial Programming at Paramount+ and FUTURE NOW board member, and Anjelica Rosa, experienced Program Strategist and Content Acquisitions Specialist with Serial Maven Studios and co-leader of the FUTURE NOW  marketing committee. The insight of these seasoned industry professionals opened my eyes to things like incorporating current social media trends into marketing and programming and the existence and roles of content acquisition teams at TV networks and what they do.  On the third day, attendees went on media tours at different companies. I was lucky to visit MSG Networks and Warner Bros Discovery at Hudson Yards. One of my peers on the MSG Networks tour was  Renee Thomas, a film major at The City University of New York. Renee gratefully expresses, “The common sentiment throughout the conference was reiterating how eye-opening the entire experience was and I feel the same. The opportunity to meet with like-minded young people, to speak with industry professionals sometimes feels like a rarity. At the end of the day, the only thing you can ask for is the opportunity to prove yourself and the FUTURE NOW conference provides that chance to all of us.” Toward the end of the tour at MSG Networks, our host and Vice President of Content Strategy & Original Programming , Talaya Gaines, offered everyone refreshments and a chance to mingle in a more casual setting. I met Damiane Gaskin, a student at the University of Connecticut and fellow comic book connoisseur, who shares, “For my first time, it was amazing! I loved meeting so many people; I’m so excited for what the future holds for me and the organization.” We talked about FUTURE NOW and it was great to share my personal experience with him and other potential volunteers and answer questions about the Mentoring Program, yet another incredible opportunity for alums to connect with industry professionals and get the guidance and support they need.  The tour at Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) meant a lot to me because WBD is responsible for a lot of my favorite programs and movies, such as the various Looney Tunes programs that I enjoyed as a child, and the animated and live-action adaptations of comic book characters like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.  It was an amazing full-circle experience to see where all the marketing, editing, and movie magic happens. Each tour guide provided detailed information about their roles and how their jobs directly impact what consumers see. The 2024 FUTURE NOW Media and Entertainment Conference was an incredible opportunity that I and many others will not soon forget. For me as a volunteer, from learning the delicate balance of networking and creating connections to helping set up the location for the speed mentoring sessions, the knowledge, and experience I gained from these three days will be valuable for the rest of my career.  However, the most gratifying thing was meeting my fellow volunteers, the board members, and our phenomenal CEO in person for the first time. They have believed in and supported my career goals for the past year without having met me in person until then, and they all mean a great deal to me. It was wonderful to work with and get to know them beyond a computer screen for a few days and I’m counting down the hours until we meet again at next year's conference.

From Oscar-winning actors, directors, and writers, to chart-topping musicians, world-class athletes, and brands, United Talent Agency (UTA) represents some of the biggest players in the entertainment industry. In addition to representing clients like Issa Rae, Ali Wong, Bad Bunny, Kevin Hart, and Greta Gerwig, UTA has also expanded into content production and strategic advising, reflecting their drive to stay at the forefront of the industry's evolution. With that eye to the future, UTA brought on Lindsay Wagner in January 2022 as its first-ever Chief Diversity Officer to craft a comprehensive strategy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) that permeates every aspect of UTA's operations. Wagner’s day-to-day responsibilities range from supporting agents in their client relationships to shaping inclusive talent-sourcing processes. But beyond policy-making, Wagner’s position centers around understanding how each person within the company can uniquely contribute to the DE&I mission and engage leaders across the industry for meaningful partnerships. It’s a dynamic role, and in a conversation with Peggy Kim, FUTURE NOW Founder and CEO, Wagner told attendees that “no two days have ever felt the same.” But despite the ever-changing day-to-day reality of Wagner’s job, at the heart of her role lies a single question: “How are we using our influence, our scale, our power to make sure that we are continuing to do good alongside all communities here in entertainment?” Underlying her passion for DEI is her commitment to social justice. Earlier in her PR / Communications career, Wagner was reluctant to own the title of “activist” and feared retribution from her colleagues, but the deaths of Eric Garner in 2014 and Walter Scott in 2015 turned the tide for her. It was during the holiday season that the news went out about the non-indictment of the officer in the Eric Garner chokehold case," Wagner recalled. “I had tears streaming down my face, and I said, ‘That’s it. That’s enough.’” Now, Wagner proudly introduces herself as “an activist and organizer.” In 2016, Wagner was working at a public relations agency in New York. In her free time, she joined protests and volunteered with the Justice League NYC, “an intergenerational and community-led movement that believes in and embodies the principles of Kingian nonviolence.” Dr. Martin Luther King’s teachings on love and change are the inspiration for her grassroots activism.  She shared, “Whatever you can do to champion others to your cause has to start with empathy, love, and some common ground.” It was at Justice League NYC that Wagner identified her strengths and began leveraging the skills she gained through her years in PR. “I realized this is what I’m really good at. I’m great with media…with storytelling, with words, writing, and executive visibility.” Then, when she became involved with March2Justice, a march from NYC to DC calling for criminal justice reform, Wagner realized that she didn’t just want to volunteer. She wanted this to be her new career path. “That changed my life. It changed my perspective forever,” she revealed. “I came back from that thinking, ‘I can’t just continue doing luxury lifestyle PR. I can’t not help in some way to make the world a better place.’” Wagner decided to pivot her career to the DEI field, combining her passion for justice with her media savvy. Entertainment seemed like the perfect place for Wagner’s newfound purpose, as few things in our culture have the power to shape minds as stories do. “What ultimately led me to entertainment,” Wagner explained, “was when I was thinking about my mission and purpose, the impact and influence that entertainment has on generations, the way people see themselves, and refer to themselves, and the storytelling that gets passed on through that. You are now at the heart of cultural influence.” But, as Wagner knows, diversity goes beyond onscreen representation. She envisions UTA’s impact as reaching into the heart of people and culture. She is dedicated to advancing DEI across the industry, ensuring that her work is not just an internal initiative but a broader commitment to positive change. An initiative that Wagner holds close to her heart is the Find Your People Program, an educational program for aspiring filmmakers made possible through UTA’s partnership with Issa Rae’s management and production company, ColorCreative. “[This program] really helps champion people from underrepresented communities into the industry,” Wagner gushed. The training program provides resources, mentorship, and guidance in the seven main disciplines of filmmaking, and culminates with a short film pitching competition for possible funding. The 2023 cohort included 28 aspiring writers, directors, producers, editors, cinematographers, costume designers, and production designers. When asked what her favorite part of the job is, Wagner responded without hesitation. “For me, it’s really about working with a variety of people. I love people.” And, she is passionate about understanding their stories and strives to be the voice for the voiceless. “Doing this work, you have to be… the person in the room that says what others are thinking but haven’t quite said,” she explained. In this way, Wagner identifies herself as a "good troublemaker," echoing the late John Lewis, and emphasizes the importance of courage and empowerment in her work. “Feeling empowered to be courageous and helping other people find that courage is a huge part of my job and something that I really look forward to every day.” Wagner got her first career break through a conversation with a customer while working part-time as a bartender. Her outgoing nature and ability to connect with people led to an offer for an internship. With every opportunity, she continued to build relationships, eventually landing a job at a PR agency in New York City where she worked for 9 years. An effective communicator knows their audience, but for Wagner, it’s also about empathy. That’s what helped her get that internship, and it also informs how she leads her team today. Wagner learned early on the importance of authentic connections and the impact of showing up in critical relationship-building moments. Being a good colleague, asking questions, and delivering on promises are foundational elements in the relationship-focused entertainment industry, and are beneficial in any role. “When someone walks into my office, I can feel everything that they’re carrying with them,” she said of her leadership style. “Being a person who is very empathic and takes it all in, I tend to carry that with me. I’m able to really sit and listen to people, to understand and not necessarily respond, and really try to walk alongside them.” For those entering the workforce, Wagner recommends getting out there and talking to people. “This industry is hugely based on relationships. If you just sit in your office… without getting a chance to understand the people around you, then you’re not really building those relationships.” Wagner compared relationship building to money in a bank. “Think about the deposits you're making [into relationships] in parallel with the withdrawals. But make sure that the deposits you’re making are significant enough so when you are withdrawing, you have a lot to choose from in that bank.” Wagner added that a lesson she wished she had learned earlier was the strength and confidence that comes from being your authentic self. Despite the challenges of showing up entirely as oneself, she advocates for leaning into elements of your identity that drive you forward. Authenticity is not only crucial for maintaining mental wellness in the workplace but can be the force that guides your career in directions you find meaningful. “Truly understanding the business and becoming the best version of yourself to contribute to the success of the company is really vital to how you are able to continue to be your true authentic self,” she added. Just as Wagner brought her empathy-led approach and social justice passion to UTA, bringing your unique perspective to the table will help you become the best at what you do. As Wagner said, “We all have something unique to give.”

In her free time, Tolani Holmes, the SVP of Unscripted Development for MTV Entertainment, likes to text her friends, who just happen to be the wives of Staten Island’s most infamous mafia godfathers. This may seem like risky business to anyone who’s seen “The Sopranos,” but it’s just a regular Tuesday for Holmes. As a producer on VH1’s “Mob Wives,” Holmes spent five years getting to know the mob wives and considers them friends. “They’re like my family,” Holmes told FUTURE NOW CEO and Founder, Peggy Kim. But how did an English major from the University of Michigan end up rubbing elbows with the families of men whose crimes could fill novels? Put simply, hustle. Holmes by no means had her career mapped out in college, but, as she said, “I always knew I [loved] stories. I love reading. I love telling stories. I love reading stories. And so I always knew I wanted to be a storyteller in some capacity.” Like so many 90s kids, Holmes had grown up watching television, but didn’t know how the sausage got made, so to speak—she only knew the bright and shiny final product. “You don’t really think of the business side of it, where it's strategy and marketing and PR and all these other things,” she said. But she knew she had to start somewhere. So, Holmes worked to get on a set. Her first job was as a Production Assistant (PA) on a music video shoot. She was in awe of the scale and speed of things. “If you've never seen it in real life, there’s no way to know what it looks like, what it feels like, what you're supposed to be doing.” “I remember even being daunted by the way people were speaking—everything’s immediate [and] quick… It’s just a lot going on, a lot of moving parts. And it can be very intimidating, especially for someone like me… I was an English major, I’m kind of nerdy.” Still, she described the set as “fantastic.” It was there that everything fell into place for her. “You can see who the producers are, what the crew does…I remember so clearly being on that set and just something clicked and I finally understood: we’re making something, and it’s a business.” Being a PA is hard work, to put it lightly, and exhausting both physically and mentally, but Holmes was ALL IN. It was her energy on this music video set—her “hustle”—that got her the next job, and the next, and the next. “When you're a freelancer,” Holmes explained, “you have to… [get in with a] group of producers that can bring you to their next gig. That helped me get a gig, and then [I was] off and running, and then I got a job as an AP [associate producer] at a production company after that.” That company was Pie Town Productions, which created lifestyle shows for HGTV, Food Network, and others. Among their most well-known shows is Rachael Ray’s “$40 a Day,” where the famed cook traveled to other cities and endeavored to eat three meals a day for $40. “What I loved about Pie Town,” Holmes said, “was that it was so small that the owners of the company let us do a lot of different things.” There, she cut her teeth on everything from pitching to casting. “Anything they needed me to do, I would do,” she said. “There was a great foundation for everything…. Back then, essentially what I was doing was development, because they had a lot of smaller projects that needed to be worked on and strengthened, and because the team was so small, I was able to do that.” Her time at Pie Town prepared her for her current role at MTV, which she describes as “[bringing] ideas to life,” which “can include anything from…ideating around a concept, or trying to execute different franchises that we have and figuring out how we can make a spinoff.” In order to do her job effectively, Holmes explains, “That means viewership. You know, what are people watching? What are my competitors doing? How are other shows that I'm trying to pitch within doing?” she explained. “I need to know what dating shows are out there, how they’re performing, why they’re performing well, what’s working, what’s not working. There's a lot of research that goes into how we decide what is working and what’s not working. How we can tweak something that is working and make it even better? What [do] we remove or add in? Do we add a different host? Making a concept stronger, better—all of that is part of development.” Similarly, Holmes must keep an eye on her shows’ performance, which has become more complicated in the streaming era. “Streaming is also very different from how they measure linear because we measure streaming by the amount of people that signed up,” she said. So not only does Holmes need to anticipate how a show might perform on a linear channel, but if “we move it to streaming, how then will it push people to sign up for Paramount+?” Still, even if the metrics might look a bit different nowadays, “the job is the same in that…you’re trying to attract the most viewers and…that is timeless,” Holmes added. The other constant is that the industry is ever-evolving, and that’s why I say you always have to stay on your toes. Stay relevant, always educate [yourself]. I feel like I've been in this business for so long and I'm still learning.” For a show to have potential for success, you need to have a great concept, compelling characters that viewers can relate to or care about, and a hook. Holmes explained, “In the mafia culture, the women are in the background, forced to hold the family together when things go down,” but “Mob Wives” gave them a chance to shine on their own. “That was crazy,” Holmes laughed. “That was a crazy, beautiful, wonderful experience. We were trying to do something real…and it all just clicked.” But even if you find great characters, you still have to earn their trust, especially for a show like “Mob Wives.” “We were tapping into a world where you’re not supposed to talk about these things,” Holmes said, but her honesty during the filming process allowed the wives to open up to VH1’s camera crews, and the emotional catharsis on that show was real. “I try to be as transparent as possible—this is the story we’re trying to tell, this is why we’re trying to tell it,” Holmes said. “It’s collaborative.” Collaboration has always been key for Holmes. There’s no room for complacency, which Holmes knew even from the beginning. “I’m not just sitting here waiting for someone to tell me what to do. I’m going out and I’m trying to see what’s going on. I’m asking people, do they need anything? I’m following people that I think are doing something that I should know about. I guess I am a natural hustler,” Holmes admitted. “That's my go-to, even in my current job. So that never gets old.” Her number one advice for listeners? “You can’t wait. [I] cannot stress that enough. Do not wait. Nothing is going to fall into your lap.” So get out there and hustle!

If you stop random people on the street and ask them if they know who Goku is, more would answer “yes” than you would expect. Goku is the main character of the most popular anime in the world, Dragon Ball. But, who is the man behind the popular manga? It’s Akira Toriyama, the creator who has given us so much more than we realize. Born in 1955, Akira Toriyama started drawing at a young age and became particularly interested in manga when his friend’s brother showed him his collection, including the popular manga Astro Boy by Osamu Tezuka. After that, Toriyama started drawing small cartoon books about his daily life and took a job in advertising as a poster designer right out of high school. This job gave him the financial freedom to pursue his artistic passion. However, after three years of office life, where he found it difficult to rise early and often got scolded for dressing too casually, Toriyama quit. At age 23, with no money in his pocket and his parents on his case about becoming a productive member of society, he decided to enter into amateur manga competitions. Toriyama submitted his work to the magazine Weekly Shonen Jump in 1978. Shonen Jump’s editor at the time, Kazuhiko Torishima, thoroughly enjoyed Toriyama’s submission, but it was rejected for being a parody of Star Wars and not an original work. Still, Torishima saw Toriyama’s talent, and periodically sent him telegrams encouraging him to continue drawing. Later that year, the manga Wonder Island became Toriyama’s first official published work for Weekly Shonen Jump, and it kickstarted his long and storied career. After gaining some traction with his first female-led manga, Toriyama followed up with another female-led and first popular manga in 1980 called Dr. Slump, which turned Toriyama into a household name and earned him the Shogakukan Manga Award for best shonen manga series of the year. The shonen genre is typically targeted to adolescent boys who enjoy action and adventure, Dr. Slump’s popularity with a female protagonist further demonstrates Toriyama’s ability to draw anyone into his stories even if you think it’s not necessarily made for you. Dr. Slump’s success continued for four years with its continued publication in Weekly Shonen Jump as well as its anime adaptation in 1981. In addition to shattering glass ceilings in the male-led world of anime and manga, Dr. Slump served as inspiration for Shigeru Miyamoto, who would go on to design a little character named Mario in a game called Donkey Kong. When Dr. Slump ended several years later, Toriyama decided to make an adventure manga inspired by kung fu and martial arts movies, and in 1984, Dragon Boy, starring everyone’s favorite Saiyan Son Goku, hit the shelves. Initially, Toriyama didn’t want to make Dragon Boy too serious and didn’t intend for it to last very long. However, the readers’ positive reaction to Goku made Toriyama steer things in a more serious direction. By 1986, Dragon Boy evolved into Dragon Ball, which would spawn multiple spinoffs, card games, and movies, and go on to become one of the highest-grossing media franchises ever. Since then, Goku has captured the hearts of millions, including Eiichiro Oda, Tite Kubo, and Masashi Kishimoto, known as the creators of One Piece, Bleach, and Naruto, which have their own successful franchises (and, in the case of One Piece, a wildly popular live-action Netflix adaptation). Goku going “Super Saiyan,” considered one of the greatest transformations in anime history, even inspired Sonic the Hedgehog to go “Super Sonic.” Goku’s impact can also be felt in everything from Black Panther, where Michael B. Jordan’s (himself a self-professed anime superfan) outfit as Killmonger takes a cue from Dragon Ball, to the WWE’s Ronda Rousey and the songs and raps of Childish Gambino. Then, there are the regular people like me. I joined the Dragon Ball fandom after a lengthy lecture from my brother and his friend explaining all things Goku to me. What I didn’t realize at the time was that falling in love with Goku and his journey would make me fall in love with the entirety of anime and manga. The life lessons woven into the intricate storytelling provided a much-needed escape, and I’m sure many fans can agree that kind-hearted characters like Goku could make you believe that they’d be your friend if they were real. Sometimes all any of us needs is a friend in our corner. The impact and longevity of Dragon Ball showcase Toriyama’s dedication to his editors and publishers, his family and friends, and most importantly his readers and fans around the world. Last month, Akira Toriyama passed away from a subdural hematoma, and fans across the world came together in mourning. Governments publicly shared their condolences and acknowledged his impact on their citizens and many others. Some might not even realize this impact, or not know who to thank for a fond childhood memory of screaming “kamehameha!” with their friends. Maybe Toriyama himself wasn’t even aware of his impact, that his stories and their characters touched the hearts of millions. I like to think that he knew how important his work was even if he didn’t expect it to be. His light-hearted yet driven approach to fulfilling his dreams helped create a space for those who felt different or misunderstood. It helped lift people out of dark days and show them that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The creator of Naruto, Masashi Kishimoto, shared, “I honestly don’t know what to write in such a sudden situation. But I want to convey what I’ve always wanted to ask Toriyama-sensei, my thoughts. From early elementary school with Dr. Slump to later years with Dragon Ball, Sensei’s manga has always been with me.” One Piece creator Eiichiro Oda said in his tribute post, “It’s too early. The hole is too big. The thought of never seeing you again fills me with sadness. I’ve admired you so much since I was a child, and I even remember the day when you called me by name for the first time.” Oda even took a month-long break from One Piece to mourn his friend and beloved teacher. The anime/manga industry as well as fiction in its entirety will continue to be influenced by Akira Toriyama’s characters and their ability to draw the reader into the story, cheering them on to the very end. His legacy lives on through them and will continue to spread for generations to come. Mario Inspiration source: https://comicbook.com/anime/news/mario-dragon-ball-akira-toriyama-arale/ Sonic Inspiration source: https://www.kanzenshuu.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=43669#:~:text=As%20many%20fans%20know%2C%20Yuji,inspiration%20from%20King%20Kai's%20Planet. Other manga artists tribute quotes: Oda: https://comicbook.com/anime/news/dragon-ball-one-piece-creator-akira-toriyama-tribute/ Kishimoto: https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/anime/naruto-and-one-piece-manga-writers-pay-tribute-to-dragon-ball-creator-akira-toriyama-101709985170951.html

When you attend the FUTURE NOW Media and Entertainment Conference, you not only gain knowledge, professional connections, and lifelong friends, but you also become eligible to apply for FUTURE NOW’s Mentorship Program. Currently, in its fifth year, this 9-month-long formal one-on-one mentoring program is one of the greatest opportunities for students and recent graduates to go deeper and learn from today’s industry leaders and professionals. FUTURE NOW Mentors generously give their time and wisdom, provide valuable guidance and feedback, and often open their networks to their mentees. Meet Mentor Kennedy Medina, Director of Programming at Cartoon Network, and  Mentee Elijah Minter, FUTURE NOW alum and aspiring animator. Anna: Tell me a little bit about yourself, Elijah. Elijah: I’m Elijah Minter, I’m an artist and my interests are film and animation. After receiving my degree in film, I've been studying animation on my own with resources online and books, so I’m just working on creating. I went to LaGuardia Community College for my first two years, then I transferred for a bachelor’s in Film and TV at Lehman College. Anna: Kennedy, what do you do? Kennedy: So my role at the Cartoon Network is the program planning and content strategy director. What that means is that I oversee everything you see on the linear networks in terms of long-term programming. I also manage Boomerang and I also manage kids content that goes up on Max. Anna: How did you find out about FUTURE NOW? Elijah: If I recall correctly, I received an email telling me about the program, and since then, I’ve met a lot of mentors and a lot of peers, and I’ve been with it ever since. I’ve been to the online conferences. Kennedy: I used to work with a lady named Sowon Sawyer who recommended me to FUTURE NOW, and I volunteered [as a mentor for the Speed Mentoring Sessions] at last year’s conference and I thought that the conference was phenomenal. Ever since then, I’ve tried to help them in any way possible. Anna: What made you want to join the mentorship program? Elijah: I like learning a lot and working with others, so I thought of it as an opportunity to expand my leadership skills and learn about elevator pitches, acing interviews—just learning different skills that I will need in my lifetime that will help me step into my career. I thought FUTURE NOW would be a great opportunity. Kennedy: I always wanted to be a mentor, because one of the biggest factors when I was young and trying to come into the media and entertainment industry was that I never had a mentor—someone who could help guide me and show me the ins and outs of the industry and how to grow within it. It wasn’t until I started working and some of my managers took me under their wing and started teaching me all the things that you need to succeed in the workplace that I realized that mentoring is important. If it wasn’t for their help, I don’t think I would be where I am, so I always wanted to pay it forward. One of the ways I do that is by mentoring college kids. Your success is never guaranteed unless you pay it forward. Anna: Kennedy, how did you cultivate your mentors in the workplace? Kennedy: I’ll be honest, being a first generation, entering the workplace I really didn’t have an understanding on how to present yourself, how to speak in meetings, how to voice your opinion. I needed to stick my pride in my pocket and ask for help. If you don’t know what you don’t, the only way to figure it out is to ask the question, and I had no one else to rely on except my managers. You try to lean on your coworkers, but you need someone with that experience who’s been through the cauldron to help you and guide you in the direction that you wanna go. It always helps to have an ally in your corner because they will work on the things that you might not be strong on but also elevate those strengths that you already have. Anna: Could you describe a bit of the FUTURE NOW mentorship process, Elijah? Elijah: It’s straightforward as you know what you wanna join the program for. FUTURE NOW takes your interest and matches it with mentors who may have an idea of the things you’re trying to pursue. They closely match you with someone you know you can learn from [in] that field. After you sign up, you work with your mentor and determine the days and times you want to meet. It can be as many times as you like. I’ve been meeting with Kennedy three times a month, and we would set deadlines for things I have to get done, like reviewing my StrengthsFinder test and just working on my résumé to [get] it up to par where I can send it off to companies. We would outline the steps I would need to take to help me reach my goal, and that consisted of putting my résumé into play and sending it out to companies I may want to connect with. Anna: In your opinion, Kennedy, what is the first step to finding mentorship? Kennedy: Attend events like FUTURE NOW. There are a lot of great organizations giving back to the community, and these organizations have networks. Volunteer with them, and contribute your time. These organizations offer you exposure because you get exposed to professionals in so many different capacities, and [if] you’re volunteering, you get face time in a natural setting as opposed to trying to reach out all the time. Volunteer, and join these nonprofit organizations. These are easy ways for you to network and broaden your horizons. When you volunteer, you’re coming out of your comfort zone and you’re doing something that you don’t always get the chance to do. You develop new skill sets. You might do something that you never thought you’d do and enjoy and that might set you up on a career that you never expected. Anna: Kennedy, how does mentorship change and evolve in your career? Kennedy: I think as you are further in your career, what’s important is for you to create a network—a network of folks in all different types of industries and all levels of experience, and just learn from them in different capacities. It’s great when I am learning from colleagues in sports who have a different perspective on the business and they tackle issues with a completely different mindset, but it’s also interesting when you hear a counterpoint from a law firm and how they go about doing business. Having a broad network broadens your horizons because you learn different ways of accomplishing projects from different perspectives, and I think that gives you a lot of different ways to be successful. Being able to tackle it from so many different points of view is interesting and I think it makes you a more well-rounded flexible person that can be relied on when there’s a situation or issue that arises. Anna: How have you seen yourself grow over the program, Elijah? Elijah: I would measure my growth based on my organizational skills, and just looking at my résumé from before I entered the program and looking at it now, it looks a lot more professional and it really speaks to me as a person. Anna: Elijah, what lessons will you take going forward? What will stick with you? Elijah: Putting myself out there—the things that I learned that I have to do as a professional stepping into the industry. Taking those traits and characteristics that I’ve learned with me into whichever field I go or any projects I’m working on. [Kennedy and I] think almost alike, so it hasn’t been back-and-forth. It’s just been understanding. Anna: Would you recommend this to others who want to be in the media industry? Elijah: I would recommend the FUTURE NOW program to anyone who’s in college who’s not sure what they want to do but they’re passionate. I think FUTURE NOW’s mentorship program really does a good job of teaching mentees about how the industry works, how professionalism works, and the characteristics you need to present yourself. If people are thinking about joining the program, I would encourage them to take it very seriously, that way they get the best out of it. Anna: Lastly, Kennedy, how did you see Elijah grow over the program? Kennedy: For me, it was about empowering [Elijah] to put himself out there. You don’t make the shots you don't take. This is a brilliant kid who has a lot of talent, very creative, and I had to help him get out of his head and understand that you have to expose yourself. You need to be out there, you need to build awareness for people to see who you are, and all the great productions that you’re creating. I tried to encourage him in different ways—you’re creating all these animated shorts, submit them for awards, reach out to production companies, and let them know that even if they don’t have an internship, you’d love to volunteer in any capacity. And I think that when he finally started sending emails and reaching out and some folks started replying back to him, it was like, ‘Oh, wait a minute, there is an interest in what I’m offering.’ and I think that helped him take more initiative and be more proactive. I want to get him a lot of informational interviews with subject matter experts that can also provide the necessary steps for him to take and further his career and enter the industry, because let’s be honest, media and entertainment have evolved a lot over the last couple of years, especially with the advent of streaming. It’s one of the few industries that evolves very rapidly and you have to adapt. I wanna make sure I give him enough options to succeed and pivot however he needs.