Building the Next Generation of Black Media Professionals
Apprenticeship & Fellowship Programs
At In the Wake Media, we're not just creating content—we're building infrastructure for collective liberation. Our apprenticeship and fellowship programs are designed to increase the pipeline of diverse talent in tech, media, and broadcast industries while centering the voices and experiences of communities that have been historically excluded.
In the Wake Apprenticeship Rotation Program
Overview
Our federally approved apprenticeship program is a 3-year, cohort-based initiative that provides hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world experience across four critical tracks in media and technology. We train 10 apprentices per cohort through 6-month corporate rotations, equipping participants with the technical and creative skills needed to excel in any industry.
Four Career Tracks
1. Digital Content Production Master the art of storytelling through video production, editing, post-production, and content strategy. Learn industry-standard tools and techniques while creating culturally resonant media.
2. Broadcast Engineering & Streaming Technology Gain expertise in live streaming infrastructure, broadcast systems, OTT platforms, and technical operations. Build the technical backbone of modern media distribution.
3. Multimedia Journalism Develop skills in investigative reporting, community journalism, documentary production, and ethical storytelling that centers marginalized voices and challenges dominant narratives.
4. Digital Media Marketing Learn content marketing, social media strategy, audience development, SEO, and campaign management specifically tailored to independent and community-owned media.
Who We Serve
Our program prioritizes BIPOC youth ages 18–24, with special focus on:
- Justice-involved individuals
- LGBTQ+ community members
- Disabled individuals
- Single parents
- Opportunity youth
- Those from rural and underserved communities
Program Structure
Duration: 18 months of intensive training and workplace experience
Format:
- 6-month corporate rotations with partner organizations
- Weekly cohort workshops and skill-building sessions
- Bi-weekly one-on-one check-ins with mentors
- Portfolio development and career coaching
- Conflict resolution and mental health support services
Outcomes:
- Industry-recognized credentials
- Professional portfolio
- Real-world work experience
- Job placement support
- Network of mentors and peers
- Pathway to worker-ownership
Our Commitment
- 80%+ completion rate through robust support services
- 70%+ job placement within 6 months of completion
- 90%+ credential attainment across all tracks
- Transition to full worker-owned cooperative model by 2030
Native Voices Storytelling Fellowship
Overview
In partnership with Native Public Media, the Native Voices Storytelling Fellowship trains and compensates 12–15 Indigenous producers to create authentic, culturally grounded content that centers Indigenous perspectives and supports media sovereignty.
Program Features
Training & Compensation Fellows receive professional training in documentary production, storytelling techniques, and broadcast journalism while being paid for their work—recognizing that Indigenous stories have value and Indigenous storytellers deserve compensation.
Content Distribution We distribute 20–30 pieces of fellow-produced content through:
- In the Wake TV streaming platform
- NPR and public radio networks
- Tribal radio stations
- Physical DVDs for communities with limited internet access
Cultural Sovereignty We honor tribal storytelling traditions and support Indigenous communities' right to tell their own stories, on their own terms, through their own voices.
Impact
The fellowship bridges the digital divide while amplifying Indigenous voices in mainstream and community media. We stand in solidarity with Native communities fighting for broadband access, cultural preservation, and self-determination.
Why It Matters
Digital Equity as Justice
We recognize that media access and representation are human rights. By training the next generation of BIPOC media professionals, we're building the infrastructure for collective economic power and cultural sovereignty.
Worker-Owned Future
Apprentices and fellows aren't just employees—they're future owners. We're building a cooperative model that rejects extractive corporate structures and centers community wealth-building.
Breaking Down Barriers
We provide:
- Stipends and living wage compensation
- Mental health and support services
- Flexible scheduling for caregivers and students
- Accessible training for disabled participants
- Culturally relevant curriculum and mentorship
Corporate Partnership Opportunities
We invite mission-aligned organizations to join our employer consortium and provide rotation opportunities for apprentices.
Partnership Tiers:
Foundation Partner - $8,000 per 6-month rotation
- Host one apprentice for 6-month rotation
- Access to trained, diverse talent pipeline
- Recognition in program materials
Growth Partner - $15,000 per 6-month rotation
- Host multiple apprentices across tracks
- Co-branded recruitment materials
- Priority access to graduating cohorts
Impact Partner - $25,000+ annually
- Year-round apprentice hosting
- Curriculum development collaboration
- Leadership role in employer consortium
- Equity stake consideration in cooperative model
Get Involved
For Prospective Apprentices & Fellows:
Ready to build your career in media and technology while contributing to collective liberation? We want to hear from you.
For Corporate Partners:
Interested in hosting apprentices, supporting Indigenous storytelling, or joining our employer consortium? Let's build together.
For Community Organizations:
Want to collaborate on digital equity initiatives or support workforce development in your community? We're here for it.
Contact: partnerships@inthewake.tv
Location: Newark, NJ
Website: www.inthewake.tv
In the Wake Media is a worker-owned cooperative committed to media justice, digital equity, and collective liberation. Every apprentice trained, every story told, every partnership built is a step toward a media landscape rooted in community ownership and cultural sovereignty.