Walter Kaitz Foundation’s New Partnership With Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad Foundation

The Walter Kaitz Foundation announced a new partnership with the Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab last month. Spearheaded by Hillman Grad, the media company founded by Emmy award winning writer, producer, and creator, Lena Waithe, this program provides a six-month intensive development opportunity for a diverse range of actors, writers, and producers.

Renewed commitment to developing diverse talent

"Amplifying the voices of underrepresented artists and creating pathways for their success is foundational to the work we do at Hillman Grad. The generous support of the Walter Kaitz Foundation will allow us to further our mission of educating and nurturing emerging talent in Hollywood," said Justin Riley, Senior Vice President, Operations.

Moving forward

With this new collaboration, the Foundation has decided to sunset the Hollywood Creative Forum (HCF).

• HCF has been a powerful force for over a decade, offering educational and networking sessions to hundreds of creatives.
• While the HCF is concluding, this is a strategic move towards fostering new alliances that offer more comprehensive support and mentorship for those in the creative industry.
• HCF alumni are encouraged to continue their journey of growth and connection by joining the "Korgi Connect" online community. This platform, created by HCF co-founder DMA Anderson, is designed to support and facilitate the professional advancement of its members.

Continuing the success

"With HCF, the Kaitz Foundation and I created a one-of-a-kind space, at the time, for working professionals in entertainment to connect to advanced industry sessions, hirers specifically seeking them, and a diverse community of experienced writers, producers, directors and crew," said Anderson.

"In the 15 years that followed, we also created a global family. We need a space to continue building upon that wonderful bond and collectively thriving in this industry's steadily shifting landscape," Anderson continued.

Nilda Gumbs, Acting Director of the Kaitz Foundation, has emphasized this transition as the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The Foundation is eager to cultivate collaborations that provide opportunities for creative professionals to help forge successful careers. Gumbs also notes the importance of Korgi Connect platform as a valuable asset for the HCF community, ensuring a broader spectrum of opportunities and stronger outcomes for all involved.