The Native Professional Advancement Center is thrilled to unveil our newest venture: the Film Program. At its core, this initiative seeks to revolutionize the representation and participation of urban Native Americans in New Mexico's burgeoning film and media landscape. Our mission? To catalyze a vibrant network of collaboration, creativity, and support that opens the door for local talent to thrive in the film industry.
Program Goals
Envisioning the Future of Film
In partnership with industry unions like ITASE Local 480 and coordinating with Workforce of Central New Mexico, we're also exploring higher wage opportunities and apprenticeship programs to further enrich our community's involvement in film and media.
Systemic Change
We aim to significantly increase the number of Native indidviduals working in film and media, broadening horizons and skill sets to meet industry demands.
Creative Pathways
Opening new avenues for students and enthusiasts in digital arts, while building infrastructure to support Native filmmakers.
Correcting Representation
Addressing historical inaccuracies in the portrayal of Native Americans in film and advocating for authentic narratives.
Community Impact
Through film and media, we aspire to amplify civil, social, and environmental issues vital to Native Americans, inspiring positive community change.
Group Effort x NIYC Film & Media PA Training
The National Indian Youth Council in collaboration with Group Effort Initiative is providing a two-day high-quality, industry-aligned production assistant training experience that strengthens entry-level workforce readiness and supports the film, television, commercial, and digital media production ecosystem in New Mexico. National Indian Youth Council and Group Effort initiative operate at the intersection of education, industry, and workforce development, enabling rapid design and delivery of training programs aligned to employer and productions needs.
The training emphasizes applied learning, on-set etiquette, safety awareness, and real-world execution. Our program is structured to ensure participants can transition directly into PA and Locations PA roles, as well as entry-level positions within commercial and multi-media assignments, with the practical skills and professional expectations required in active production environments.
Locations & dates: (Training locations will be provided in your email confirmation.)
- Las Cruces, NM - July 10-11, 2026, Dona Ana Community College Creative Media Technology Bldg.
- Las Vegas, NM - July 17-18, 2026, NM Highlands University
- Santa Fe, NM - July 24-25, 2026, TBD
- Albuquerque, NM - July 31 - Aug. 1, 2026, Netflix Studios
This is more than just a program—it's a movement.
By integrating film and media with advocacy, we're returning to our roots, using these powerful tools to communicate, educate, and inspire. We invite you to be part of this exciting journey, whether by participating, supporting, or spreading the word. Together, we can create a legacy of empowerment, representation, and success in the film industry for Native Americans and beyond.
