A New Door Opens for Aspiring Storytellers

In a move to make the entertainment world more welcoming, Group Effort Initiative and WME are joining forces for the upcoming NXT Industry Sessions. This free online program kicks off on October 27 and runs until November 21. It's all about giving people a peek into the entertainment industry, with chances to learn, connect, and ask questions. The program is packed with case studies, quizzes, and even a handy guide to industry terms. Plus, there are live Q&A sessions where participants can chat directly with industry bigwigs. While the full list of speakers is still under wraps, one name has been confirmed: Ryan Reynolds, co-founder of Group Effort Initiative. Sumi Parekh, the executive director of Group Effort Initiative, shared the mission behind the program. "We're all about opening doors for those who haven't had the usual access to this industry, " they said. "NXT is an extension of that mission, and we're thrilled to partner with WME to help the next generation of storytellers see themselves in this business and build real careers. " Hilary Fennessy, vice president of WME's impact, inclusion, and advocacy team, also expressed pride in the program. "We're proud of how far NXT has come, " they said. "It's become a vital resource for aspiring professionals looking to pursue meaningful careers at WME and beyond. We're grateful to have a longtime partner in GEI who shares our commitment to making the entertainment industry more accessible and representative of the next generation. " The entertainment industry can be tough to break into, but initiatives like NXT are working to level the playing field. By providing free access to industry insights and networking opportunities, they're helping to create a more diverse and inclusive entertainment world.