Students at select area schools will gain valuable digital storytelling skills thanks to Mosaic Film Experience, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underrepresented youth through digital storytelling. The nonprofit recently received a $50,000 grant from Sony Electronics’ “Create Action” program; funding that will directly benefit students in West Michigan, supporting a new paid student video production project in collaboration with local schools and organizations.
The grant is part of Mosaic’s broader mission to inspire students to explore creative careers in digital media. By providing hands-on learning opportunities, the project will allow students to build technical skills and develop their own stories in a professional setting.
“We are deeply honored to receive this generous grant from Sony Electronics CREATE ACTION,” said Skot Welch, president and founder, Mosaic Film Experience. “This partnership enables us to continue leveling the playing field for underrepresented youth, equipping them with the critical thinking, collaboration, and creative skills for career preparedness while addressing educational inequalities and expanding access to media education.”
This initiative comes as Mosaic expands its Career Pathways program, which offers year-round workforce development opportunities for students in middle and high schools across the region. In 2024, the program was piloted with middle school students at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy, CA Frost, and Southwest Middle High School. Beginning in January 2025, the program will also include high school students from Ottawa Hills High School.
Through the Career Pathways program, students gain real-world experience in digital media, including video production, editing, and storytelling. These hands-on experiences are designed to prepare students for careers in creative industries, giving them the skills and confidence to pursue opportunities in an ever-evolving job market.
“The big differentiator for us is that we step back and listen,” said Welch. “We are actively engaged with students, teachers, corporate partners, and sponsors from the creative industries to evaluate our programming and develop something truly innovative.”
In addition to the Career Pathways program, Mosaic’s annual events like the Mosaic Mobile film competition offer students the chance to showcase their creativity by producing short films entirely on mobile devices. The competition encourages students to sharpen their technical skills while telling unique, personal stories, culminating in a screening and award ceremony to celebrate their achievements.
Mosaic Film Experience’s programs have been a vital resource for West Michigan students since 2012, connecting them directly with industry professionals and providing them with the tools to succeed in the creative economy. With the support of the Sony grant, Mosaic will continue to expand its reach, providing even more opportunities for students to explore careers in digital media and storytelling.
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