Italian
Starz takes the lead with third writers’ intensive
Starz, in collaboration with NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) and the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP), has unveiled the eager participants for the third season of the Starz Take the Lead Writers’ Intensive. This year’s initiative kicks off on October 14, featuring a diverse group of budding writers ready to make their mark on the television industry.
A power-packed lineup
This year’s cohort includes writers Alyssa Katalyna, Eric De La Rosa, Justin Omori, and Nneka Samuel. These individuals are set to embark on a series of strategic sessions, meticulously designed by Starz, to impart knowledge and foster connections with industry veterans.
Alyssa Katalyna
Known for her eccentric storytelling style, Alyssa Katalyna stands out in the crowd. A Latina filmmaker, she gained recognition with her award-winning podcast “Jack and Lou: A Gangster Love Story,” featuring Lisa Kudrow. Katalyna’s accolades include the George Lucas Scholarship at USC, the NALIP Emerging Content Creators Inclusion Initiative Scholarship, and the 2023 R&D Innovation Grant for her production, ChikaBOOM!.
Eric De La Rosa
Eric J. De La Rosa, a queer Latinx writer hailing from the University of Texas, has made a substantial impact while working with renowned companies like The Jim Henson Company and Dreamworks. De La Rosa’s knack for creating captivating television pilots has earned him spots as a finalist in several prestigious contests, including the Shore Scripts TV Pilot Contest and the Final Draft Big Break.
Justin Omori
Having developed a passion for storytelling in Hawaii, Justin Omori moved to Los Angeles to further hone his craft. As a Writers’ Assistant on ambitious projects like “The Fall of the House of Usher,” Omori has quickly made a name for himself. His short film “Inheritance” premiered at the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival and exemplifies his dynamic storytelling ability.
Nneka Samuel
Award-winning writer Nneka Samuel brings untold stories to the forefront. With recent work on Showtime’s “Flatbush Misdemeanors” and development of a comedy series with AwesomenessTV, Samuel’s contributions to the industry are varied and significant. Her writing has also been recognized by the Austin Film Festival and the Hollywood Black Film Festival, affirming her status as a powerful voice in modern television.
Industry connections and career development
The Starz Take the Lead Writers’ Intensive bridges the gap between emerging talent and industry insiders. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with prominent figures such as Kathryn Busby (Starz’s president of original programming), Rebecca Cutter (showrunner/executive producer), Tara Roy (Starz director of original programming), and others from leading entities such as ABC Hulu, 20th Television, and Point Grey Pictures.
These mentors will offer invaluable insights and guidance, helping the participants navigate the complex world of television production and storytelling. The collaboration between Starz, NALIP, and NFMLA stands as a testament to the industry’s commitment to nurturing new voices and promoting diversity within the creative community.
Redefining representation
Diana Luna, Executive Director of NALIP, and Larry Laboe, Co-Founder and Executive Director of NFMLA, emphasized the initiative’s role in advancing representation within the premium cable landscape. They highlighted that the program serves as a unifying force, contributing significantly to the narrowing of the representation gap in the entertainment industry.
This collaborative effort reflects a shared vision of elevating new talent and ensuring that diverse stories get the platform they deserve. Through their dedication, Starz, NALIP, and NFMLA demonstrate their leadership and innovation in fostering an inclusive and dynamic television environment.
Key industry trends
The demand for diverse and authentic storytelling in television has shaped industry trends over the past decade. With an increasing focus on inclusivity, initiatives like the Starz Take the Lead Writers’ Intensive are crucial. They enable underrepresented groups to access opportunities, ensuring that the television industry continues to evolve and reflect a broader array of experiences and perspectives.
Moreover, the involvement of well-established industry figures as mentors enhances the credibility and impact of such programs. Mentorship not only aids in the professional growth of emerging writers but also enriches the creative landscape with fresh, unique viewpoints.
Final thoughts
The third season of the Starz Take the Lead Writers’ Intensive stands as a beacon of progress in an ever-evolving industry. By empowering new voices and promoting diversity and inclusion, Starz, alongside NFMLA and NALIP, sets a precedent for what true leadership in the television space looks like.
Emerging writers like Alyssa Katalyna, Eric De La Rosa, Justin Omori, and Nneka Samuel represent the future of storytelling. Their participation in this intensive program not only underscores their potential but also signifies the positive direction in which the industry is moving.
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