Applications are open for the 2021 class of Hollywood Professional Association’s Young Entertainment Professionals program. For five years, the YEP program has connected ambitious and talented creative, technical, project management and administrative professionals between the ages of 21 and 32 with mentors and educational offerings that accelerate their professional development. Applications are due Monday, October 12, and applicants will be notified of their status in mid-November. The 2021 YEP class will begin in January 2021.
Since its inception in 2015, the YEP program has nurtured the critically important pipeline of young professionals ascending into industry leadership positions. Every year, the number of applications has increased, and YEP alumni continue to move into influential roles in the industry and maintain their relationship with the program and HPA.
“We continue to be inspired by the young professionals who apply for and become YEPS,” said Kari Grubin, who co-created the YEP program with fellow WIP Chair and HPA board member Loren Nielsen.
“The application process shows us that there are a number of exciting candidates who have long term goals for their careers, and we strongly believe that YEP is the place for them to get guidance and connection.” Nielsen noted, “It’s an understatement to say that this is an unusual time. To help these accomplished young people build their networks, peer groups and knowledge is completely thrilling. We look forward to seeing the class of 2021 take shape.”
The YEP program comprises two distinct phases. Phase 1 will run for five months (January through May), beginning with the YEP orientation day. Attendance at the YEP orientation is mandatory along with participation in at least one other major event, for example, the HPA Tech Retreat. YEPs are also expected to attend at least four virtual events or casual meet-ups during the full year program.
Phase 2 of the YEP program will begin in May. In addition to receiving free or reduced fee access to YEP and other HPA community events, YEPs will be evaluated by the Mentorship Committee for pairing with an industry leader based on each individual’s participation and overall commitment to the program. At the end of the second phase, YEPs will be evaluated by the Mentorship Committee for eligibility to receive the certificate of completion.
During the course of the Young Entertainment Professionals program, each YEP will receive access to the following:
SMPTE Virtual Technical Conference pass – November 9-12
YEP Orientation Program
Annual Membership in HPA
Annual Membership in SMPTE
Entrance to the HPA Awards
YEP Roundtable Mentor Event
HPA Tech Retreat Conference Pass
Periodic in-person or virtual YEP events, which could include coffee meet-ups, vendor field trips, virtual office hours, online mentor Q&A sessions
Access to HPA’s virtual event series and members-only content library
Discounted or free admission throughout the year to HPA NET, Women in Post, and YEP events
Digital Certificate of Completion (based on Mentorship Committee Review)
Upon successful completion of the YEP program, graduates will receive formal recognition as an HPA Class of 2021 Young Entertainment Professional at a culmination event.
Grubin concluded, “HPA is a place where those who participate make connections that last a lifetime. Becoming a YEP puts you in a great position to do just that, and if you are able to invest in your YEP experience, it will be an invaluable asset as you build your career. We encourage you to apply.”
To be considered for the YEP program, applicants need to complete an online application and present one letter of recommendation.
Hollywood Professional Association www.hpaonline.com