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A new community-driven film training initiative will launch in Leimert Park this April, offering affordable, professional-led instruction designed to open pathways into the film industry for South Los Angeles residents.
The Film Labs, hosted at KAOS Network located at 4343 Leimert Blvd., in Los Angeles, are monthly sessions led by working filmmakers, each focused on a different area of filmmaking—from screenwriting to production. The program is part of the Graduate School of Black Cinematic Arts, a new institution scheduled to open in 2030.
The first Film Lab will take place on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., focusing on screenwriting. Admission is $15, with future labs ranging from $10–$30 to ensure accessibility for the community.
“Our goal is to create a real pipeline into the film industry rooted in Leimert Park and South LA,” said Dr. Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran, founder and board chair. “These labs are not just classes—they are entry points into professional filmmaking.”
Participants will have opportunities to contribute to a professional film project as part of the program.
The initiative brings together notable film and cultural leaders, including acclaimed filmmaker Charles Burnett, who serves on the advisory board; filmmaker and professor Jonathan Burnett, vice chair of the Board of Regents; and Ben Caldwell of KAOS Network, a key cultural leader in Leimert Park and partner in the Film Labs.
The Film Labs are designed as both a training ground and a community resource, strengthening creative infrastructure in one of Los Angeles’ most historically significant cultural districts.
For more information, visit https://www.blackcinematicarts-edu.org.
Share this post #Ben Caldwell #Charles Burnett #Dr. Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran #film industry #Film Labs #Graduate School of Black Cinematic Arts #Jonathan Burnett #Kaos Network #Leimert Park
FILM LABS
presented by
Graduate School of Black
Cinematic Arts
&
Kaos Network
GSBCA Film Labs Launching in Leimert Park
The Graduate School of Black Cinematic Arts (GSBCA), in partnership with Ben Caldwell and Kaos Network, is launching a new series of monthly Film Labs in Leimert Park.
Designed as a community outreach initiative leading up to GSBCA’s campus opening in 2030, these labs are open to all South Los Angeles residents. Each session will be led by experienced, working filmmakers and focus on a core area of the craft.
Film Labs are intentionally accessible, with registration ranging from $10–$30 depending on equipment needs. Participants will also have opportunities to contribute to professional film projects, creating real pathways into the industry.
First Session
Saturday, April 18 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Focus: Screenwriting
Led by Jordan Mitchell
Screenwriter and GSBCA Founding Board of Regents member
Jordan Mitchell is a Los Angeles–based television and film writer with credits on the Emmy-nominated Raven’s Home (Disney Channel) and the iCarly reboot (Paramount+). A graduate of Loyola Marymount University’s MFA Screenwriting program, Jordan has developed original projects for talent including Cedric the Entertainer and Gabrielle Union. His work spans comedy, drama, and family entertainment, often blending heartfelt storytelling with sharp social insight. In addition to his industry work, Jordan mentors emerging writers through his sitcom writing program, guiding new voices from concept to completed pilot.
Register
Email us at info@blackcinematicarts-edu.com.
State that you are registering for Film Lab #1.
Name
Email
Fee: $15 cash - payable at the venue
Upcoming Topics Include:
Screenwriting, Producing, Directing, Independent Filmmaking, Cinematography, Lighting & Sound, Acting, and Fundraising
Double Good Pop Up Store
Thank you, Popcorn-lovers!
Thank you, Top Sellers!
Jahleeka Morris-Jones
Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran
Jonathan Burnett
Thank you,
100% Donors!
You outdistanced us all!
SCHWAB CHARITABLE GRANT
$1000
Thank you, Larry and Bea Blanc,
for your gracious support!