The Second Annual MediaMKRS Summit will bring together 150 industry leaders, employers, union officials, educators, and policymakers to discuss the future of the media sector and how to build an inclusive workforce in film and television.

Additional information on speakers and the Summit can be found here.

🎟 Ticketing - SOLD OUT

General Admission: $100

Important Details:

All tickets include full-day access to summit sessions and networking opportunities
Seating for all sessions is available on a first-come, first-served basis
Registration is non-refundable but fully transferable up to 24 hours before the event

Need help? Questions about registration? Contact Emily Freire, Events Coordinator, at emilyfreire@reelworks.org.

🌟 Summit Co-Chairs

🎤 Programming Schedule

9:00 AM | Doors Open & Check-In

10:00 AM - 10:15 AM | Open Remarks

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM | Reimagining Production: Studios as Drivers of Regional Innovation

As the media and entertainment industry continues to transform, the development of state-of-the-art studio campuses and shifting tax incentive programs in NY/NJ continue to reshape both the creative and economic landscape. This panel brings together leaders in studio development, investment, and production to discuss the future of the Film/TV industry and how these developments will impact the NY/NJ region.

Moderator: Jonathon Yormak - East End Studios
Panelists:
Robert Halmi - Great Point Studios
Rohan Juneja - Managing Director, Media Services, Jefferies
Tommy O’Donnell - Local 817
Santiago Quiñones - New York Film/TV Production Industry Council

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM | Next-Gen Workforce: The Impact of Early Talent Investment

As the industry evolves, being competitive means thinking differently about talent development. This panel brings together leaders from education, social responsibility and inclusion, and organizational development to discuss the transformative value of investing in young talent. Panelists will explore how mentorship, industry exposure, and inclusive hiring strategies not only empower the next generation but also drive innovation in their organizations.

Moderator: Pamala Buzick Kim - Maven Label
Panelists:
Meeckel Beecher - Shutterstock
Jarret Kleppél - NBCUniversal
Kevin Lopez - Motion Picture Technical High School
Jason Rosario - BBDO

12:15 PM - 12:30 PM | Break

12:30 PM - 1:00 PM | The Making of PUMA x WAL's Harlem Renaissance Capsule Collection

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the creation of PUMA x WAL’s Neo-Renaissance campaign, a collaboration that celebrates the Harlem Renaissance through cultural storytelling. This panel will delve into how the partnership between PUMA, Paramount's Content for Change, and Reel Works came together to design a unique and impactful collection. Hear from the creative minds involved as they explore the process, the power of community partnerships, and the role of empowering rising talent in shaping iconic cultural moments.

Moderator: Melissa Potter - Paramount
Panelists:
Dayo Harewood - Paramount
Aunika Constantine - Reel Works Alumni

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Investing in Impact: Why These Programs Matter

Join us for an inspiring Alumni Spotlight panel featuring graduates of our program who are making waves across the media and entertainment industry, from New York and Los Angeles to Toronto. Hear how their experiences in the program shaped their career journeys and gain valuable insights from their advice to industry leaders dedicated to supporting and investing in the next generation.

Moderator: Bree Frank - Hue You Know
Panelists:
Alexa James-Cardenas - IATSE Local 705 (LA-based alumni)
Alicia Rosado - Panavision (RFMI alumni)
Alondra Jiminez - A+E (RFMI alumni)
Jjay Krishnan - SPIN VFX (Toronto-based alumni)

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Collaborative Impact: Strategic Partnerships Driving Workforce Innovation

How innovative collaborations between studios, unions, and CBOs create groundbreaking workforce opportunities in the media industry. Featuring insights from partnerships like HBO’s The Gilded Age and IATSE Local 600 Loader Training– panelists will share strategies and best practices for fostering inclusivity while addressing the evolving needs of the industry.

Moderator: John Gibson - Motion Picture Association
Panelists:
Euan Lampitt - Warner Bros. Discovery
Katie Irish - Local USA 829
Erica Kay - Executive Producer
Sarah May Guenther - Local 600

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM | Networking Reception

🤝 Sponsorship Packages

Support the next generation of filmmakers and media creatives! We offer a variety of sponsorship packages to fit your budget. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities here.

If you are interested in sponsoring the MediaMKRS Summit, contact us at Development@reelworks.org.

🚉 Nearby Transportation

Subway: A/C/E lines at 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal Station, 1/2/3 lines to Times Sq-42 St Station, N/R/W at 49 St, or B/D/F/M at 47-50 Sts-Rockerfeller Ctr. All are just a short walk from the venue.
Bus: Several buses, including the M42, M7, and M104 stop nearby.
Parking: Limited street parking is available, but public transportation is recommended due to the busy area.

🎥 Recording Notice

Please be aware that by attending this event, you are entering an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. Your entry and presence at the event constitute your consent to be photographed, filmed, and/or recorded. You also agree to the release, publication, exhibition, or reproduction of any media you are featured in for promotional purposes related to Reel Works and its initiatives. This includes, but is not limited to, use on websites, social media, news, and advertising.

♿ Accessibility

Reel Works is committed to accessibility and inclusivity for all audience members. We are continuing to work toward expanding our accessibility efforts in order to provide a comfortable and enjoyable theater experience for everyone.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding accessibility or mobility, please contact us by emailing Development@reelworks.org

More about Reel Works: Reel Works is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that mentors, inspires, and empowers underserved NYC youth to share their stories through filmmaking, creating a springboard to successful careers in media and beyond.

More about MediaMKRS: MediaMKRS by Reel Works educates and empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to succeed in the media industry. Our program offers comprehensive training, hands-on work experiences, networking opportunities, and unparalleled access to industry professionals needed for a thriving career.

Please note that attendees to this event will be signed up for the Reel Works newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time.

MediaMKRS Summit 2025

The Second Annual MediaMKRS Summit will bring together 200 industry leaders, employers, union officials, educators, and policymakers to discuss the future of the media sector and how to build an equitable workforce in film and television.