Media matters. It shapes our culture — one film, one news clip, one story at a time. So if we’re ever going to create an equitable future, we need equitable representation in the media. We at BAYCAT work to change the storytellers, so they can change the world.
For 15 years, we've proven that representation matters. Because stories matter.
Over the next 15, we’ll show the world how much more beautiful it can be when everyone sees themselves in it.
Together, we are forging the future.
Will you join us?
The Industry Gap
40% of the US population are people of color. 12.6% of film directors are people of color.
Most young creatives and storytellers of color can't afford expensive schools or costly professional software.
50% of the US population are women. 11.5% of advertising creative directors are women.
The majority of young adults of color and women have no access to mentors and don’t know anyone in the industry.
Sources: Hollywood Diversity Report 2019 and The 3% Movement
The BAYCAT Solution
We created a pathway, from education to job placement, in the media and creative industry for women and people of color.
Our students have access to the latest technologies, mentorship, professional coaching, and networking opportunities to
build bridges between people of color, women, and the industry.
At BAYCAT Academy, we provide free digital media education to
low-income youth of color and young women, ages 11-17 afterschool and during the summer.
We train, mentor and employ diverse young adult interns, ages 18-25 through BAYCAT Studio, and then support job placements at major companies and organizations.
BAYCAT Studio is the Bay Area’s go-to storytellers for creating authentic media with a lasting social impact. As the professional arm of BAYCAT, we have produced meaningful, socially driven work for globally recognized clients like the Golden State Warriors, National Parks Service, Salesforce, Pixar, UCSF, and more.
From Bayview kid to Emmy® winner:
The story of Iman Rodney
AT 13
Iman joins BAYCAT Academy, our free program for youth 11 to 17 years old. He will come back every semester for the next four years.
AT 19
Iman drops out of college and works at Trader Joe's to help support his family.
BAYCAT Studio hires him part-time to work on a documentary, an opportunity for him to figure out whether his dream to be a filmmaker could become a reality.
AT 20
After his positive experience with BAYCAT Studio, Iman decides to give it a go and joins our paid Internship program for young adults ages 18-25.
AT 21
Iman is hired by the SF Giants’ broadcast team as an intern.
AT 23
The SF Giants offer him a full-time position as a videographer. His dream comes true, but it's only the beginning. He works hard and a year later, he’s promoted to cinematographer.
AT 25
Iman wins his first Emmy for “We Are Giants,” becoming the first BAYCAT graduate to do so. The following year, he’ll win not one, but two, Emmys.
As a 13-year-old, the thought of becoming a professional filmmaker seemed like a pipe dream to Iman. But the experience and opportunities he gained through BAYCAT Academy and BAYCAT Studio, prepared him to seize the opportunity of a lifetime.