GFS enacts its mission through two program tracks: a rigorous and practical film education program for high school students (FELLOWS) and early-career support for alumni and young professionals (THE ROSTER). GFS annually serves 5,000 individuals, 14-34 years of age. GFS Fellows Program immerses high school students in a curriculum that develops their artistic expression, executive function, technological expertise, and media-business savvy. The program is grounded in experiential learning and gives participants a well-rounded education in film and media, as well as nurtures their unique interests and strengths. Our curriculum, culture, and support structures are based on a core value of young peoples’ agency over their own narratives and a belief in their innate creative potential. GFS establishes an even playing field with its students, treating all as emerging artists, and emphasizing high expectations, accountability and trust. Our most recent study showed 98% of Fellows graduate high school; 92% matriculate into colleges; and 75% pursue creative careers.

Through its Roster member network, GFS paves the way for a successful education-to-industry transition, connecting NYC’s early-career creatives in the film, television and entertainment industries and providing professional development support. Roster creates employment opportunities for GFS alumni, so that media professions become accessible to more diverse visual storytellers, and media content – from feature films to commercials to games – includes the perspectives and experiences of people from backgrounds that are under-represented.