Writing knowing a real opportunity now exists enabling me to share stories with you through film is like rocket fuel to my memories… SMP has walked a once marginalized community onto “active significant roles in the art of filmmaking”. It’s a beautiful picture seeing a once suffered group of people collectively creating meaningful films for the greater good of our society. Honor and commitment exist with those who live a meaningful life. SMP has given me the truth to a dream and I only hope to prevent from my lived experiences… Because while we walk this earth our human spirit will be the light that guides my footsteps!
I met Alonzo, the founder of SMP Rise, while I was working at a non-profit serving young adults experiencing homelessness. I had the pleasure to see first hand how he trains a crew in production. He was so mindful with the young adults he was working with. I haven’t seen this level of trauma informed support in a very long time. I could see the joy on the participants faces as they continued to master their production skills under Alonzo’s guidance. His dedication to working with all vulnerable populations made me want to volunteer for his organization. I was so grateful to support the organization as it premiered an 1st time writer/director short. To see all of the work SMP does come together was nothing short of Amazing.
SMP Rise is innovating the filmmaking sphere, putting creativity first and recognizing talent before bogging an idea down in metrics. Their personal investment in the people they work with is inspiring, and I'm thrilled to get to work with such encouraging mentors! They really prioritize a thorough and healthy learning environment. Where do you find that in the film industry? Seeing that gap and pouring their all into a solution has made a profound and successful program. It's above and beyond what I expected when I approached their project submissions, and from what I've seen and heard it's only going to get better from here.
My experience with SMP Rise has been amazing! I feel blessed to have found this gem of a program, which came highly recommended... They take a totally new approach to apprentice training: being paired with a mentor and coached as YOU create your own project from scratch, then executing and taking it to full production. SMP Rise has a roster of skilled industry professionals who guide you step by step through the process.
SMP Rise’s mission and execution has been one that I am extremely grateful and excited for! Giving pathways and opportunities to follow your dream is something we all need, but to incorporate industry professional mentors along with the ability to get paid for what you do makes SMP Rise stick out adobe the rest! Not only have I had the opportunity to keep pushing for my dreams and make a wage doing it, I’ve made connections and above all else, friends that genuine through the SMP Rise family.
smprise2021 02/06/2023
THANK YOU FOR THIS REVIEW! SMP Rise is honored to be part of your growth and your film community. We will grow and rise together. Keep RISING!
My experience as an apprentice with SMP RISE has been amazing! The access I’ve been afforded with the organization has been monumental to the development of my career. I’ve been learning so much about the ins and outs of production from script writing to on set production. SMP RISE is truly about breaking the glass ceiling and helping us rise to another level in our careers and ultimately in our lives. What makes this organization so exceptional is the ability to earn a great wage while we learn. It’s a very rare opportunity to be able to learn new skills while not having to sacrifice earning a living. I am so grateful to be a part of this organization and hope I’ve inspired you to contribute to the next project that will provide us with education as well as employment and community.
smprise2021 02/06/2023
Thanks Roki aka Roki Star! Your participation at SMP Rise has been incredible. We are so fortunate to have apprentices, like you, who bring so much passion to our mission. You are the reason we are here, you're the fuel that keeps us serving. Rise UP!