Thousand Lanterns Initiative
Thousand Lanterns Initiative
A Micro-Mentorship Program to Empower the Future of Asian American Innovators in the Entertainment Industry.
A NEW STEP TOWARDS EXCELLENCE
A NEW STEP TOWARDS EXCELLENCE
The Thousand Lanterns Initiative is designed to elevate and empower emerging Asian American creatives across the entertainment industry. With our ambitious goal of connecting 1000 mentors and 1000 mentees, we’re determined to create a vibrant, supportive community where talent can flourish and inspiration is shared.
Our mission is to foster the growth of a diverse, inclusive creative landscape, and it starts with you.
Mentorship that Transforms
Actors Writers Directors Showrunners Cinematographers Costume Designers Set Designers Production Designers Hair and Makeup Artists
The Thousand Lanterns Initiative aims to create a supportive community that fosters growth, cultivates resilience, and celebrates the unique strengths and talents of Asian and Asian American individuals. We provide one-on-one mentorship, connecting mentees with experienced professionals in their respective fields who serve as guiding lanterns.
Why 1 Hour?
We believe that every hour of mentorship is a stepping stone towards a brighter future for Asian American creatives. By mentors and mentees committing to one single hour of mentorship, our mentors and mentees invest in their personal growth and contributes to a thriving ecosystem of support and empowerment.
Together, we can reach new heights and redefine the industry.
Apply TodayHow it Works
1. Sign up for the program.
To sign up for the program, simply fill out our application form and tell us a little bit about yourself and your career goals. We will match you with a mentor or mentee who has relevant experience and expertise.
2. Connect with your mentor or mentee.
Once you have been matched with a mentor or mentee, you will receive an email introduction to arrange your first Zoom call. During the call, you will have the opportunity to connect, share advice, and seek guidance on career development.
3. Commit to a Single Hour of mentorship.
By committing to a single 1-hour Zoom call with your mentor or mentee. Our goal is to match 1000 mentors with 1000 mentees, for a total of 1000 hours of shared knowledge and support. We believe that this is a meaningful way to give back to our community and make a positive impact on someone’s career journey. Remember, every small step counts, and even one hour can make a difference in someone’s life.
4. Keep in touch with your mentor or mentee.
We encourage all participants to keep in touch with their mentors or mentees after the program. You can continue to support each other and share advice as you navigate your careers in the film and television industry.
5. Share your experience.
We encourage all participants to keep in touch with their mentors or mentees after the program. You can continue to support each other and share advice as you navigate your careers in the film and television industry.
Get Involved
Join the Thousand Lanterns Initiative today and become a part of a growing community of Asian and Asian American professionals who are dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to give back or an aspiring leader seeking guidance, we invite you to embark on this journey with us.
Become a Mentor: Share your expertise, wisdom, and experience with the next generation of Asian and Asian American leaders. Inspire and empower them to achieve their dreams.
Become a Mentee: Find the guidance and support you need to navigate your career path, learn from experienced professionals, and unlock your full potential.
FAQ
Q: How much does it cost to participate in the program?
A: This program is free of charge.
Q: Who counts as "Asian American"?
A: Anyone who has heritage and ancestral linage from the East, West, North, South, and Central regions on continent of Asia and including islands in the pacific ocean.
Q: How long does the program last?
A: The program lasts for one hour sometime in 2023. This ia a one hour virtual video call with your mentor or mentee. You will set up an appropriate meeting time independent of Strong Asian Lead.
Q: What criteria do I need to have to participate in the program?
A: We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experience levels. However, we do recommend that you have some experience in the film and television industry, such as an IMDB Pro credit, a short, feature or pilot script, an acting reel or website, a directors reel, or portfolio site for cinematographers, set designers, and hair or makeup.
Q: How do I know if I am eligible to be a mentor?
A: We welcome mentors from all backgrounds and experience levels. However, we do recommend that you have at least five years of experience in the film and television industry.
Q: How do I know if I am eligible to be a mentee?
A: We welcome mentees from all backgrounds and experience levels to apply. However, we do recommend that you have some experience in the film and television industry, such as an IMDB Pro credit, a short, feature or pilot script, an acting reel or website, a directors reel, or portfolio site for cinematographers, set designers, and hair and makeup.
Q: Who does not get in?
A: This is a program set up for creatives within the film and television space. This is not ideal for those who want to purse a career in theatre, music, or art UNLESS you want to learn more about how to adapt your talent for the motion picture industry.
i.e. Theatre acting, movie composing/sync, book adaptations.
Q: How are mentors and mentees matched?
A: Mentors and mentees are matched based on their career goals, interests, and expertise.
Q: Can I choose my mentor or mentee?
A: We will match you with a mentor or mentee based on your application and our matching criteria.
Q: What happens after the program?
A: We encourage all participants to keep in touch with their mentors or mentees after the program. You can continue to support each other and share advice as you navigate your careers in the film and television industry.
Q: What if I have additional questions or feedback?
A: You can contact us at any time at our email address or social media channels listed on our website. We welcome all questions and feedback from our community.
Q: Can I be a Mentor and Mentee?
A: Yes. You may apply to be both.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: For our first round, we'll be closing the application on June 1st.
The Strong Asian Lead Promise
We are committed to making the Thousand Lanterns Initiative a transformative experience for all involved. By joining our program, you’re not only investing in your personal and professional growth but also helping to create a more diverse, inclusive, and creative entertainment industry. Together, we can change the narrative and forge a brighter future for Asian American talent.
Together, We Rise
Daniel Dae Kim, once said, “We rise not by stepping on others but by lifting each other up.”
The Thousand Lanterns Initiative Hours Mentorship Program. By cultivating an environment centered around mentorship, education, and community, we embolden the upcoming generation of Asian American creatives to unlock their potential and leave an indelible impact on the entertainment industry.
Contact Us
We would love to hear from you! If you have any questions about the Thousand Lanterns Initiative, please get in touch with us through our contact form or email us at info @ strongasianlead.com.
Let’s work together to light the way for the next generation of Asian and Asian American leaders.
