Our Impact
Redefining Representation
Since our founding in 2011, we have created spaces where historically marginalized voices can be heard, supported, and celebrated. From filmmaking workshops to workforce training, our programs empower participants to reclaim their narratives, challenge industry norms, and foster meaningful representation in film and television.
With deep community roots and a strong commitment to equity, we continue expanding our reach, supporting storytellers, and setting the stage for powerful transformations.
By the Numbers
Since 2011, Justice for My Sister has served over 12,000 youth and adults through workshops, screenings, and trainings across Los Angeles County and beyond. In the last decade, we have:
Produced 75+ original short films
Graduated 120+ certified Production Assistants and Supported 40+ BIPOC-led productions through our PA Sponsorship Award
Mentored 86 fellows in our BIPOC Sci-Fi Screenwriting Lab to complete pilot scripts
Delivered 1,800+ hours of hands-on workforce training
Our 2023-2024 Annual Report
Our 2023–2024 Annual Report highlights a year defined by collaboration, innovation, and meaningful community engagement. Through the support of our partners, funders, students, and leadership, we've continued to deepen our commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering a more inclusive media landscape.
We invite you to explore our past annual reports to learn more about the growth, resilience, and achievements of our community through the years.
WHO WE SERVE
Our students are at the very heart of Justice for My Sister. Every workshop, training, and production we organize is designed around their stories, aspirations, and lived experiences. Our commitment to fostering inclusive media spaces means recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by the communities we serve.
OUR STUDENTS:
76% identify as women
6% identify as nonbinary
50% are current or former foster youth
50% have experienced being undocumented
65% have faced racial discrimination
32% report having experienced gender-based violence
Meet Cassie
Meet one of our alumni, Cassie. She joined JFMS as a student where she wrote and directed her first award-winning short "Tienes Hambre?". She continues to be a filmmaker and community organizer, dedicated to uplifting other POC and LGBTQ+ voices to tell their personal stories.
Meet jasmine
Jasmine produced “I will not break or fold” while in our Nuevas Novelas program in 2018, capturing her perspective and highlighting critical community issues. Her work demonstrates the power of storytelling to engage, educate, and inspire audiences around important themes.
What our students are saying:
"I loved the support and encouragement I felt when joining every class. When talking about these topics that are usually hard to talk about with other people, I loved seeing the passion everyone had. I definitely learned a lot from being part of this summer intensive and was always truly interested in what we learned every day. I love the work this summer intensive does and believe the information shared here is very valuable for everyone to learn. Thank you for this opportunity of being able to join Nuevas Novelas and for all the support and encouragement received by each and every one of the mentors!"
— Nuevas Novelas 2020 Participant
"I want to say that this was such a pivotal learning experience for me. This lab gave me so many tools for being a screenwriter, but more importantly, made me feel like it was possible. Kimberly and Hilda also modeled real mentorship, and because of them, I know I won't fail. I'm also grateful for having a supportive community grounded in progressive values modeled for me, and to know I have this group of fellows as part of my community as I embark on this work. This experience has made me feel like I can do so much, and has honestly given me a new lease on my passions. The pandemic would have been a really hard time for me, but this fellowship is a big reason I've gotten through. Thank you, so much, from the bottom of my heart."
— BIPOC Sci Fi Lab 2020 Participant
"The lab is doing such crucial work at a time when the world needs it. The encouragement of stories from BIPOC and connecting them to working professionals in the industry while providing structure and a blueprint is unparalleled and I'm so grateful! I will sing JFMS' praise for years to come! "
— BIPOC Sci Fi Lab 2020 Participant
