When MPTF says it’s “taking care of our own,” that includes all generations in the entertainment industry. Our award-winning and innovative mentorship program Passing the Torch 
joins retired industry professionals with a focus on young people from underrepresented communities, which can “leverage a lifetime of workplace knowledge of retirees to increase awareness of a wide range of career opportunities by mentoring students who might not have access to that information” says Fredda Johnson, MPTF’s Director of Engagement. “The program increases the health and well-being of program participants, reduce ageism across the spectrum, empower students who will benefit from having a mentor who can offer judgement-fee guidance, and strengthen the overall community through supportive intergenerational connections.”
In an industry where knowledge is often passed informally, Passing the Torch formalizes mentorship to ensure that students—many of whom may only be aware of high-visibility roles like actor or director—can discover the vast range of essential behind-the-scenes jobs that bring film and television projects to life. From camera operators and costumers to editors and production coordinators, these roles are often overlooked yet offer stable, union-backed careers that form the backbone of the entertainment industry.
The program launched with a pilot panel at SoLa Studios Film Production Program that trains and inspires the next generation of entertainment leaders from South Los Angeles, where industry veterans like retired first assistant director John Poer and production coordinator and IATSE Local 871 member Lois Walker shared candid insights with high school students. The experience earned positive responses from the students. One student summed it up best: “They kept it real with us and left out no details.” 100% of students surveyed afterward said they saw the value in being mentored by a retiree. Since then, the program has expanded to include in-class mentors; 1:1 mentorship; script to screen and capstone project mentors; and mentor workshops with students from the Roybal Film & Television Magnet High School, Grant High School, Venice Arts, and more thanks to financial support from The Eisner Foundation and partnerships with EIF (The Entertainment Industry Foundation) and MENTOR California.
Beyond professional advice, the mentors—members of IATSE, industry guilds and retiree groups —offer a judgment-free space for students to ask questions, build confidence, and better understand how to navigate the industry, which enriches students’ educational and career pathways, and shows students what it means to build a life and a legacy in the film and television industry. As mentor Lois Walker noted, “To be able to pass the torch to the future generation is so rewarding.”
The benefits go both ways. In an industry that too often “ages out” its professionals, Passing the Torch offers mentors renewed purpose and a chance to remain relevant and deeply connected to the work they love. As mentor Darlene Brumfield, a Hair & Makeup Artist and Local 706 member shared, “It fills my heart… Mentoring is becoming my passion.” Passing The Torch has been transformative, especially powerful for students who identify with mentors and see themselves represented in the industry for the first time.
“Thank you to the mentors that made me feel more sure on what I want to do. I’ve been so scared not knowing how to accomplish my goals, but they made me realize it doesn’t matter how I get there. What matters is learning about everything and pushing through and asking questions.” -Roybal Student
Through its thoughtful, hands-on approach, Passing the Torch is an innovative solution for young people to gain real-world insight, confidence, and guidance from those who’ve spent decades in the industry. Bridges are built between generations as they discover common interests and break down stereotypes about age, ability, and belonging – nurturing a future generation of professionals while honoring the legacy and expertise of seasoned industry veterans
Passing The Torch has been recognized by both Generations United and the National Council on Aging for intergenerational innovation. Click here for more info and to view/download the Passing the Torch one-sheet >
