Check out our Film/TV mentors for Unlock Her Potential FILM/TV APPLY NOW ALICE GU Director | Cinematographer | Photographer KELLY GOODE Senior TV Programming Executive RACHEL RAIMIST Director BAO NGUYEN Director | Producer | EAST Films LENNON PARHAM Actor, Writer & Director SOPHIA CHANG Storyteller | The Baddest Bitch in the Room BRUCE COHEN Producer | American Beauty MARCELLE KARP Editorial/Creative Director | Brand Strategist | Marketing Magnet W. KAMAU BELL Comedian | Host | Executive Producer DEMANE DAVIS Television Director | Producer | Filmmaker MICHELLE RAIMO KOUYATE Former President | Sony Pictures Animation KATHRYN TYUS-ADAIR Former SVP Original Programming | Starz NAHNATCHKA KHAN Showrunner | Writer | Director VIEW ALL MENTORS

2026 MENTORS APPLY NOW FREE MARKETING APPLICATION Filter by Industry FILM/TV MARKETING MUSIC SOCIAL MEDIA ALICE GU Director | Cinematographer | Photographer DEMANE DAVIS Television Director | Producer | Filmmaker KATHRYN TYUS-ADAIR Former SVP Original Programming | Starz MICHELLE RAIMO KOUYATE Former President | Sony Pictures Animation SOPHIA CHANG Storyteller | The Baddest Bitch in the Room YOUNG GURU Record Producer | Executive | Engineer ALIX TYLER Creative Director | Creative Strategist | Instagram + Facebook ILEANA DIEZ Brand Strategist | Creative Marketing KELLY GOODE Senior TV Programming Executive NAHNATCHKA KHAN Showrunner | Writer | Director SUNYA GANBOLD Head of Delivery, EVP | Razorfish BAO NGUYEN Director | Producer | EAST Films JOEY BADA$$ Rapper | Actor | Philanthropist | Pro Era Records, Badmind Records LENNON PARHAM Actor, Writer & Director OMAR FAJARDO VP, Creative Director | Razorfish THEO JONES VP, Brand Creative + Social Strategy | Razorfish BRUCE COHEN Producer | American Beauty JOHN MENEILLY Manager MARCELLE KARP Editorial/Creative Director | Brand Strategist | Marketing Magnet RACHEL RAIMIST Director TROY CARTER Founder & CEO | Q&A CRISTINA CHAVEZ VP of A&R | Universal Music Publishing Group JUST BLAZE Director of Music & Culture | Hip Hop Producer MELANIE GEE GVP, Client Partner | Razorfish RICARDO LATORRE VP, Group Experience Design Director | Razorfish W. KAMAU BELL Comedian | Host | Executive Producer

Check out our Social Media mentors for Unlock Her Potential SOCIAL MEDIA APPLY NOW ALIX TYLER Creative Director | Creative Strategist | Instagram + Facebook VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV KELLY GOODE Senior TV Programming Executive "As an Unlock Her Potential mentor, my goal is to offer a mentee personalized career guidance, encouragement, and wisdom. I hope to use my entertainment industry background and experience to help a mentee create a vision for her professional development and offer advice on how to realize that vision. My approach is to meet a mentee where she is, providing a space where she can get feedback both on daily concerns as well as bigger picture strategies." Kelly Goode most recently served as Senior Vice President & Team Leader, Current Programming, at Warner Bros. Television (WBTV), the entertainment industry’s largest provider of original scripted programming for streaming platforms, premium cable, and the broadcast networks. In this capacity, Goode was responsible for day-to-day programming activities on a number of scripted series and worked closely with many of the Studio’s most influential producers. In this role Goode oversaw series such as “Dr. Wolf” and “Superman & Lois,” from Berlanti Productions; “Bob♥Abishola,” “Bookie,” and “Young Sheldon,” from Chuck Lorre Productions; “Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin” from Roberto Aguirre Sacasa’s Muckle Man Productions and Alloy Entertainment; the upcoming “Just Cause,” starring and executive produced by Scarlett Johansson; and more. Prior to her promotion to SVP, Goode was Vice President, Current Programming, WBTV, from 2015–2020. During her tenure, Goode worked on series such as “Riverdale,” “Westworld,” “Batwoman,” “DC’s Legends of Tomorrow,” “DC’s Stargirl,” “The Flash,” “Gossip Girl,” “The Kominsky Method,” “Kung Fu,” “Legacies,” “Peacemaker,” “Shrill,” and “Titans,” among others. Before joining WBTV, Goode was Vice President, Original Programming, at ABC Family (now Freeform), overseeing the current programming department. She began her executive career at Columbia Pictures Television and then moved on to CBS Entertainment, first as an executive in the comedy development department and then as Vice President, CBS Productions. Later, Goode was named Senior Vice President, Programming, at Lifetime Television, as part of the team that launched the network’s first original scripted series. Goode has been involved in many professional and civic organizations, and is a board member of the “I Have A Dream” Foundation-Los Angeles. She also serves on the Reform Advisory Council at the Vera Institute for Justice, and the Advisory Council of the Hollywood Radio & Television Society (HRTS). Goode received her A.B. from Harvard College. VIEW ALL MENTORS

Check out our Music mentors for Unlock Her Potential MUSIC APPLY NOW CRISTINA CHAVEZ VP of A&R | Universal Music Publishing Group TROY CARTER Founder & CEO | Q&A ILEANA DIEZ Brand Strategist | Creative Marketing YOUNG GURU Record Producer | Executive | Engineer JOEY BADA$$ Rapper | Actor | Philanthropist | Pro Era Records, Badmind Records JOHN MENEILLY Manager JUST BLAZE Director of Music & Culture | Hip Hop Producer VIEW ALL MENTORS

Check out our Marketing mentors for Unlock Her Potential MARKETING FREE MARKETING APPLICATION For the first time ever, a third party is sponsoring a full cohort! Top digital marketing agency Razorfish, part of Publicis Groupe, is providing all of the Marketing mentors in 2026. Thanks to Razorfish's generosity, ALL applicants to these 5 Marketing mentors will be free. Please apply here for Marketing mentors only. MELANIE GEE GVP, Client Partner | Razorfish OMAR FAJARDO VP, Creative Director | Razorfish RICARDO LATORRE VP, Group Experience Design Director | Razorfish SUNYA GANBOLD Head of Delivery, EVP | Razorfish THEO JONES VP, Brand Creative + Social Strategy | Razorfish VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV W. KAMAU BELL Comedian | Host | Executive Producer "As someone who has navigated a unique path through my career, but has somehow managed to make some headway in this business in comedy, writing, producing, and directing, I can help you brainstorm ideas and come up with plans to get ahead in your chosen career" W. Kamau Bell is a stand-up comedian and the host and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning CNN docu-series UNITED SHADES OF AMERICA WITH W. KAMAU BELL. His latest stand-up comedy special, PRIVATE SCHOOL NEGRO, is available on Netflix. Kamau wrote a book with the easy-to-remember title, The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell: Tales of a 6' 4", African American, Heterosexual, Cisgender, Left-Leaning, Asthmatic, Black and Proud Blerd, Mama's Boy, Dad, and Stand-Up Comedian. He’s the ACLU Celebrity Ambassador for Racial Justice and serves on the advisory boards of Hollaback! and Donors Choose. VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV SOPHIA CHANG Storyteller | The Baddest Bitch in the Room "As a mentor, I will teach you to develop your negotiation skills, to have the hard conversations, to advocate for yourself, and find your true value. In short, I will set you on the path to becoming the Baddest Bitch In The Room." Sophia Chang is a screenwriter and author who is developing numerous TV properties, including a scripted series based on her Audible memoir “ The Baddest Bitch In The Room .” Her memoir will be released in print on 9/8/20. She was also the subject of an episode of the Hulu series “ Defining Moments .” Sophia created Unlock Her Potential, a program that provides mentorship for women of color. Sophia Chang is the music business matriarchitect who managed Ol’ Dirty Bastard (RIP), RZA, GZA, D’Angelo, Raphael Saadiq, Q Tip, and A Tribe Called Quest as well as working with Paul Simon. She did marketing at Atlantic, A&R at Jive, A&R Admin at Universal, as well as serving as General Manager of RZA’s Razor Sharp Records, Cinematic Music Group, and Joey Bada$$’ Pro Era Records. She trained with and managed a Shaolin Monk, who became her partner and father of her children. She produced runway shows for Vivienne Tam and "Project Runway All Stars," was an account executive at a digital agency, and did business development at a cannabis company. AUDIBLE - Prologue of Memoir HUFFPOST - Opinion Piece on AAPI Hate "I learned tangible skills around contract negotiation and communicating with my management, but more than that, it was being around a force like Sophia that left its deepest impression. I had access and support from someone who is a model of advocacy, community, impact, and badassery — and because of that became more of who I want to be in this industry/world." — Nancy "My mentorship with Sophia changed not only my career, but the way I operate in this world. In our time together she not only helped me develop hard skill sets in personal branding, pitching, and team management but she also gave me tools to cultivate my confidence, advocate for myself, and to dream big as hell." — Kausar VIEW ALL MENTORS

MUSIC JOHN MENEILLY Manager GRAMMY® Award-winning superstars have consistently entrusted John Meneilly as not only a manager, but also as a confidant and advisor. As Founder and C.E.O. of Left Right Management, he currently represents a dynamic and diverse roster of artists in addition to overseeing a team of managers based in New York, Nashville, and Los Angeles. His current clients range from Jelly Roll and Joey Bada$$ to Sara Bareilles and the Lil Peep Estate, among many others. The Long Island native initially spent nearly a decade in business management at Provident Financial, learning the ins and outs of the music industry. Upon leaving the company, he retained Roc-A-Fella Records as a client. The label eventually named him its GM, while he handled business management for JAY-Z. By 2000, his role evolved as he assumed management duties for JAY-Z. After 14 years with the rap icon, he embarked on his next chapter, building up a roster of his own. During 2023, he formally launched Left Right Management. In every lane, he remains an artist advocate and champion, first and foremost. VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV RACHEL RAIMIST Director "Are you a director or filmmaker seeking to develop your craft and career? Let’s build together. We’re living in a time of profound change in both the industry and the world. This makes the time you invest in yourself and the work we do together even more important. Together we can deepen your creativity, develop your voice, sharpen your skills and chart a clear path forward. My focus is on you—your talent, your goals and your growth. Whether you seek to map a long-term career plan, need to recut your reel or you want to learn how to pitch with confidence, I’m here to support your creativity and your journey. What I offer through this program: - Monthly one-on-one virtual meetings - Constructive feedback on your work (short films, short film scripts, reel, website) - Directing craft and industry advice - Workshop tutorials on digital tools for directors - Insight into navigating the industry What I don’t offer: On-set shadowing opportunities If you’re ready to invest in your growth and development as a director, I’m here to help guide that process with honesty, experience and good vibes." Dr. Rachel Raimist (she/her/ella) is a trailblazing television director and former tenured college professor whose work centers on smart women, messy families and wild teens. Her directing credits span drama, comedy, action, musicals, science fiction and fantasy. She has brought her distinctive voice to hit series including Elsbeth (CBS), Bel-Air (Peacock), The Spiderwick Chronicles (Roku), Sex/Life (Netflix) and Wu-Tang: An American Saga (Hulu), among others. She loves directing teens and wild animals. At the Directors Guild of America (DGA), Raimist made history as the first woman appointed Co-Chair of the Special Projects Committee and was named Co-Chair of the Disability Committee by DGA President Lesli Linka Glatter. She also serves as Alternate Co-Chair of the Women’s Steering Committee and formerly held the same role on the Latino Committee. A passionate advocate for equity and representation, Raimist co-founded the DGA’s annual Women’s Day and leads initiatives spotlighting groundbreaking, diverse directors. She continues to champion inclusive storytelling both on screen and behind the camera. When not behind the camera, she teaches directing for Sundance, African Creative Television, the Tyler Perry Dream Collective Director's Workshop, AFI's Directing Workshop for Women, Netflix, the Stowe Story Lab, the Latino Film Institute and top film schools around the world. https://www.rachelmakesmovies.com/ https://www.thepeoplesfilmschool.com/ https://www.instagram.com/docraimist VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV MICHELLE RAIMO KOUYATE Former President | Sony Pictures Animation "As a mentor I can help you understand the perspective of both the producer and studio buyer, how to put a project together and move it forward and how to advocate for yourself and know your true worth." Michelle Raimo Kouyate is a producer with over two decades of experience producing and developing for film and TV. Formerly President of Production at Sony Pictures Animation, she has the rare distinction of success in the live action and animation spheres, both as a producer and top-level executive at companies such as Nickelodeon, and Miramax Films. The films she has been involved with, which range from CHOCOLAT and SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK to PUSS IN BOOTS and HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 1 & 2, have grossed over $3 billion worldwide. Michelle currently has a deal with Sony Pictures Animation where she is producing a slate of movies and is running LENS: Sony Pictures Empowerment and Leadership for New Storytellers which seeks to develop filmmaking leadership from underrepresented communities in an effort to allow them to create the content that reflects their worlds and perspectives. She is deeply committed to creating space that includes more marginalized voices and viewpoints. She also serves on the board of A Place Called Home, which offers services to the youth of South Central Los Angeles. "My mentor's name is Michelle Raimo Kouyate and from our 1st call where I admitted to being nervous and she replied “don’t be” I instantly felt that I was in good hands. She is a role model for how to “wear” your success while creating a space for others to also be successful. When I explained to her that I wanted to move from being a “corporate creative” to a creative in my own right as a writer/producer I felt that she totally supported me and would be invaluable on my journey. On her advice I have taken classes which have already strengthened my ability to tell the stories that I want to tell with more clarity and confidence. It’s incredible what I have learned through her insights and our mutual passion for storytelling. I am amazed at how much I have grown in just 4 sessions and excited to meet myself at the end of this year. I am also grateful to her and Unlock Her Potential for giving me this awesome chance and opportunity." — Nicole VIEW ALL MENTORS

MARKETING RICARDO LATORRE VP, Group Experience Design Director | Razorfish APPLY FOR MARKETING MENTORS WITH THIS LINK "Sometimes, in life's journey, you just need someone to help guide your inner light in the right direction. It's not always easy to find clarity alone, but I'm here to listen and support you." Ricardo Latorre is a dynamic experience design executive with over 20 years of experience transforming brands through innovative digital solutions and creative leadership. As VP, Group Experience Design Director at Publicis Razorfish, he has inspired award-winning teams and crafted user-centric experiences for leading companies. Ricardo’s journey spans pivotal roles at Prophet, Spredfast, Chasse C, and CompassLearning, where his passion for team culture, creative direction, and digital innovation has driven impactful results. Fluent in English and Spanish, Ricardo thrives on building connections between people and technology to deliver meaningful, transformative experiences. For the first time ever, a third party is sponsoring a full cohort! Top digital marketing agency Razorfish, part of Publicis Groupe, is providing all of the Marketing mentors in 2026. Thanks to Razorfish's generosity, ALL applicants to these 5 Marketing mentors will be free. VIEW ALL MENTORS

MUSIC JOEY BADA$$ Rapper | Actor | Philanthropist | Pro Era Records, Badmind Records Joey Bada$$ is a rapper and actor born and raised in Brooklyn. At 17 years old, he and his Pro Era crew took the rap world by storm with the release of his first mixtape, “1999,” which is now considered a classic. His two subsequent studio albums, “B4.DA.$$” and “All-Amerikkkan Badass,” helped elevate him to become one of the hottest names in music. His standout role in the hit TV show MR. ROBOT put his acting talents on display for the world for the first time and has led to multiple roles since. 2019 saw him expand his acting career with a role as Inspectah Deck in HULU’s WU-TANG: AN AMERICAN SAGA, as well as recurring appearances in BET sitcoms BOOMERANG and GROWN-ISH. He recently starred in the 2021 Academy Award-winning Netflix short film TWO DISTANT STRANGERS, where he played protagonist Carter James. He also appears as Unique in the upcoming STARZ original series POWER BOOK III: RAISING KANAN. WEBSITE INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK TWITTER SOUNDCLOUD SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV KATHRYN TYUS-ADAIR Former SVP Original Programming | Starz "Here to shed light on the role of a creative executive, working with talent as they create content for film, television and streaming. Bring your questions and curiosity. Excited to enlighten and support." Kathryn Tyus-Adair is Senior Vice President of Original Programming at Starz where she has recently championed, developed and overseen production of series: BMF, BLINDSPOTTING, RUN THE WORLD, THE SERPENT QUEEN, STEP UP and VIDA. She has also developed and served as a production executive on OUTLANDER, POWER and THE SPANISH PRINCESS. Before joining STARZ, Kathryn oversaw TV and film development and production for industry icons Robert Redford, Halle Berry and Don Cheadle. With Cheadle, she was a producer of the Bill Murray film ST. VINCENT, as well as an executive on Showtime’s HOUSE OF LIES and on the Sony Pictures Classics’ Irish film THE GUARD, starring Brendan Gleeson. Kathryn’s earlier television work included series development for SESAME STREET producers Children’s Television Workshop. She later championed acclaimed Showtime series SOUL FOOD and the films BARBERSHOP and MEN OF HONOR for writer/director George Tillman’s State Street Pictures. Prior to joining Starz, Kathryn segued to the buyer side of the business as a Drama Development executive for NBCUniversal’s UTV Studios, selling and developing series across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms. VIEW ALL MENTORS

MUSIC YOUNG GURU Record Producer | Executive | Engineer "I have a lifetime of experience that isn’t in a book. I can give a mentee real world experience that an help them navigate this new business with the wisdom of the old" Gimel “Young Guru” Keaton is a Grammy Award-winning record producer, executive, and engineer. Beginning his music career as a DJ in Washington D.C. in the mid-90s, Guru went on to become what the Wall Street Journal dubbed “the most influential man in hip-hop.” While he is most known for his work with Jay-Z – with whom he won a Grammy for Best Urban Contemporary Album for Everything is Love in 2019 – Guru has been a guiding force in the careers of the industry’s top recording artists. Over a decades’ long career Guru has made records with household names including Beyoncé, Rihanna, Ludacris, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, T.I., Mariah Carey and more. In 2015, Young Guru assumed the role of the Director of Operations at 9th Wonder’s record label It’s a Wonderful World Music Group. In 2022, Guru announced his new role as the Director of the Music Technology, Entrepreneurship, & Production program at the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment at Long Island University. Passionate about sharing his knowledge and love for music and record-producing, Guru also serves as a mentor for the program. In addition to offering invaluable career guidance, in 2022 Guru offered a full-tuition scholarship to one promising prospective student of the program. Always eager to impart his wealth of expertise on the new generation, Guru has lectured at New York University’s Clive Davis Institute of Music, Emory University, and the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music. VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV ALICE GU Director | Cinematographer | Photographer "I can help you hone and focus your ideas, find your artistic voice, help guide you to on your projects from conception to finishing, build pitches." Alice Gu is an award-winning director and director of photography. A Los Angeles native, Alice began her career as a director of photography, working with renowned directors Werner Herzog, Stacy Peralta, and Rory Kennedy, among others. Her commercial clients for print and live action include TBWA/ Chiat Day, Media Arts Lab, Deutsche, Edelman, Berlin Cameron, Cole & Weber, Pereira & O’Dell, Doremus, Publicis, Beats by Dre, Laird Hamilton, ESPN, FIFA, NFL, NHL, NBA, the WSL, and Apple. Take Every Wave: The Life of Laird Hamilton made its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in 2017, a documentary film directed by Academy Award-nominated director, Rory Kennedy, and lensed by Alice Gu. THE DONUT KING is Alice’s feature directorial debut and was slated to premiere in the canceled 2020 SXSW film festival. Despite the cancellation, the film won the Special Jury Prize for Excellence in Documentary Storytelling, as well as the Best Documentary awards from the Sun Valley Film Festival, Bentonville Film Festival, Urbanworld Film Festival and Best Emerging Director at the 43rd Asian American International Film Festival. A feature-length documentary about the rise and fall of a Cambodian refugee turned donut tycoon, “The Donut King” is executive produced by Academy Award-winners Ridley Scott and Freida Lee Mock. Alice’s follow-up feature, REALLY GOOD REJECTS, premiered at the 2022 SXSW Film Festival. The film was produced by Academy-Award winning producers David Dinerstein and Robert Fyvolent. A loving look inside the magic of music, the film features prominent musicians such as Jackson Browne, Jeff Tweedy of Wilco, Aaron Dessner of The National, and Phoebe Bridgers, among others. Alice was recently selected as a 2022 fellow of the prestigious Concordia Studios Fellowship, which was founded by Academy Award winner Davis Guggenheim. While developing several documentaries, Alice is also transitioning into the narrative space, developing a feature project with Scott Free Productions. WEBSITE LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM "My mentoring experience with Alice has been amazing this year. Alice has introduced me to books, funding opportunities, and educational resources in our time together, as well as personal growth resources which also pour back into my career. I am honored to be able to work with her, especially considering I am a fan of her work, and I’m so grateful to the UP community and her as a person for the ways in which I have grown during this 2023 session." — Allyson VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV BRUCE COHEN Producer | American Beauty "Embarking on a career in film and television or already on that journey and wanting some help with next steps? Through consulation and advice, both practical and inspirational, I can help you craft a game plan." Bruce Cohen is an Oscar and Tony-winning, Emmy-nominated producer of film, television, theater, and live events. He received the 2023 National Medal of Arts from President Biden, for whom he served as co-chair of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, along with Lady Gaga. He won an Academy Award for Best Picture for AMERICAN BEAUTY and earned additional Best Picture nominations for MILK and SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK. His recent film and television projects as a producer are EX-HUSBANDS, BLINK TWICE, THE GREAT LILLIAN HALL, and RUSTIN. He was Emmy-nominated for producing the 83RD ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS, and as a career producer, he is a member of Producers United. He produced both the feature film and Broadway musical versions of BIG FISH, won the Tony for Best Play for co-producing THE INHERITANCE, was Tony nominated for co-producing SLAVE PLAY and as a co-producer of GYPSY starring Audra McDonald, now on Broadway. He lives in New York City with his husband and daughter. VIEW ALL MENTORS

MARKETING OMAR FAJARDO VP, Creative Director | Razorfish APPLY FOR MARKETING MENTORS WITH THIS LINK "I can help you figure out how to navigate the creative industry without losing your voice, your values, or your sanity. I’m here to help you find clarity in the chaos, build confidence in your ideas, and approach every challenge with a fresh perspective. Thinking about a career in advertising or the creative world? I’ve been there—and I know it’s not always easy to see how you fit, especially if you’re coming from an underrepresented background. I can help you think beyond the brief, ask better questions, and tell your story in a way that feel true to you—whether that's in a portfolio, a pitch, or a client meeting. From career growth and creative leadership to simply figuring out how to be heard in a loud room, I'm here to help you move forward with purpose. My goal is to make sure you don't just survive this industry—you shape it." Omar Fajardo is a VP Creative Director with two decades of experience in advertising. Influenced by his training in art and design, Omar sees every challenge as an exercise in perspective. He starts every project the same way: by asking, “What is the bigger objective we’re really solving?” As a creative leader, he helps teams reframe the problem, challenge assumptions, and make space for unexpected solutions. His career has taken him across the globe—literally all seven continents—fueling a deep appreciation for different cultures, perspectives, and the ever-evolving landscape of pop culture and technology. He leads with empathy and curiosity, creating space for new voices and championing inclusive storytelling. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Omar brings his full self to the work and encourages others to do the same. His leadership has guided award-winning campaigns for brands like Citibank, GE Money, Sprint, Samsung, Dove, Burger King, Visit Orlando, and Holland America Line—spanning digital, TV, social, experiential, and out-of-home. Fluent in Spanish and fluent in ideas, Omar’s work has been recognized with Addy, Halo, and W3Awards, and featured in outlets like Architectural Digest Mexico, Art Basel, and Design Miami. He also helped shape the creative direction for speaker events featuring James Cameron, Vivienne Westwood, LeBron James, Malcolm Gladwell, and Steven Levitt. Beyond the day-to-day, he stays plugged into what’s next—continuously exploring diverse sources of inspiration, experimenting with emerging technologies, and blending the digital with the handmade. To him, creativity and learning is a muscle and a mindset. His north star? That life happens FOR you, not to you—and every project is a chance to turn that belief into something real. For the first time ever, a third party is sponsoring a full cohort! Top digital marketing agency Razorfish, part of Publicis Groupe, is providing all of the Marketing mentors in 2026. Thanks to Razorfish's generosity, ALL applicants to these 5 Marketing mentors will be free. VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV NAHNATCHKA KHAN Showrunner | Writer | Director Showrunner, writer, and director Nahnatchka Khan has become one of the most sought-after creators in film and television, known for some of the most innovative works in comedy including "Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23", "Fresh Off the Boat", and "Young Rock". Khan is the founder of her film and TV production company, Fierce Baby, which focuses on amplifying new voices and perspectives in both comedy and drama. In 2019, Khan made her feature directorial debut with the Netflix comedy “Always Be My Maybe", starring Ali Wong and Randall Park. The film premiered to rave reviews and Netflix announced it was viewed by 32 million households in its first four weeks on the service. In 2023, Khan journeyed into the horror category with her feature “Totally Killer,” a time-travel slasher-comedy with Blumhouse for Amazon, which starred Kiernan Shipka, Olivia Holt, Julie Bowen and Randall Park. The film released for streaming on Prime Video to rave reviews. Most recently, Khan served as writer, director and executive producer on Peacock series Laid, which is based on the Australian television series of the same name by Marieke Hardy and Kirsty Fisher. The series from Universal Television stars Academy Award Nominee Stephanie Hsu. VIEW ALL MENTORS

MUSIC TROY CARTER Founder & CEO | Q&A Troy Carter is the founder and CEO of Q&A, a technology and media company focused on powering the business of music via distribution, services, and data analytics. Formerly, Troy was the founder and CEO of Atom Factory, where he rose to prominence, nurturing the careers of global superstars, including Lady Gaga and John Legend. He most recently served at Spotify as its Global Head of Creator Services, overseeing the company’s growth strategy for artists and record labels. In 2017, Troy was also named Entertainment Advisor to the Prince Estate. His interest in the intersection of technology and culture resulted in the formation of AF Square Investments. Early investments include Uber, Lyft, Dropbox, Spotify, Warby Parker, theSkimm, Blavity, Gimlet Media, Thrive Market, PlayVs, and FazeClan. Troy currently serves as a trustee for The Aspen Institute, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and CalArts. VIEW ALL MENTORS

MUSIC CRISTINA CHAVEZ VP of A&R | Universal Music Publishing Group Transparency encourages creativity. As a respected music executive and trusted partner, Cristina Chavez has catalyzed the success and evolution of various GRAMMY® Award-winning multiplatinum producers and songwriters, ranging from Needlz and Bongo to Drew “Chiller” Gavin. Guiding careers as VP, A&R at UMPG, she consistently empowers talent to flourish and thrive at the highest level by leading with confidence and clarity. “I’m always transparent with my clients, first and foremost,” she exclaims. “They definitely know what’s on my mind. I’m very dependable as well. If I say I’m going to do something, I always get it done—and I make sure it happens in a positive way.” Growing up in The Bay Area, she immediately gravitated towards music during her childhood. Studying favorite artists, she obsessed over Toni Braxton’s voice and Babyface’s lyricism. While attending California State University Chico, she also split her time between internships at 106 KMEL and BET, grinding towards an eventual career in music. She turned the internship at BET into her first formal job as Talent Coordinator at 106 & Park in New York. She powered BET’s influential Music Matters brand, booking the likes of Kendrick Lamar, H.E.R., J. Cole, Big Sean, Miguel, Jazmine Sullivan, and more for gigs, appearances, and interviews at gestational phases of their respective careers. Not to mention, she oversaw the Music Matters presence at SXSW, A3C, and MegaFest, working with superstars such as Pharrell, Meek Mill, and T.I. 2016 saw her accept an executive position at ASCAP where she orchestrated initiatives with Women Behind The Music and She Is The Music, hosted panels, and secured talent a la Tierra Whack, Rico Nasty and many more for high-profile activations. In 2020, she joined the team at Hallwood Media as Senior Vice President of A&R and Management at Hallwood Media. Under her watch, Chiller wrote The Game’s internet-breaking 2022 epic “Eazy” [feat. Kanye West], while she also shepherded and ignited projects for Needlz [Cardi B, Drake, Bruno Mars] and Dimitri McDowell [Wiz Khalifa, Ty Dolla $ign]. Independently, she notably manages Bongo whose robust credits include Jazmine Sullivan’s “Girl Like Me” [feat. H.E.R.], Big Sean’s “Stay Down,” Cordae’s “Bad Idea” [feat. Chance the Rapper], G Herbo’s “Man Now,” Ty Dolla $ign’s “Ex” [feat. YG], and many more. At the same time, she sets an example for the next generation through her diligence and commitment. “I want to let young executives, especially girls, know you achieve every dream you have, if you put your mind to it,” she states. “It really is my life. I’m trying to contribute to the culture of music in some capacity. Whether it’s a song that speaks for the youth or putting a writer and producer together to make a connection around a great song, I want to add to this incredible world.” Beyond her role as a manager and executive, she has notably featured on panels for Joining Forces, a day-long summit hosted by Women In Music, ASCAP EXPO, and more. Thus far, her career has been chronicled by Variety and many more. VIEW ALL MENTORS

SOCIAL MEDIA ALIX TYLER Creative Director | Creative Strategist | Instagram + Facebook “What can I do to stay inspired and brainstorm more effectively? How can I create a personal brand that will propel my career forward? How do you stand in front of a room full of people with confidence? And does a Creative Director actually get to be creative??” These are just some of the questions I can help you unpack. My process is a combination of inspiration and tangible, go-to tips and tricks. I’ll show you how to exercise your creative muscle, help you “own the room” when you present, and together we’ll hone in on your goals and build strategies to help set you on the path to success!" Alix Tyler is an award-winning Creative Director and Creative Strategist at Instagram + Facebook, where she is seated at the table with CMOs, VPs and ECDs for some of the biggest fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands in the world—including Gap, Sephora, Vans and Kate Spade. Alix and her team live at the intersection of creativity and technology where she partners with brands to inspire, educate and guide as they build creative campaigns that connect with the over 2 billion monthly active users on the platform. Before Instagram, Alix spent over a decade in advertising as a Creative Director/copywriter where she created campaigns for Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, Gwen Stefani, Fergie…and some very sexy chips and salsa for Frito-Lay. With nearly 20 years of industry experience under her belt, Alix specializes in creative problem solving and is known for creating work that is both strategic and visually inspiring. Alix is also a skilled and engaging public speaker—something which has helped her throughout her career. She has co-hosted a Facebook Watch show with Queer Eye's Tan France, spoke at notable design conference C2 Montréal, hosted a fireside chat with celebrity photographer Alexi Lubomirski, shared Instagram best practices with fashion legends Inez + Vinood and Mario Testino, guest lectured at Stanford University, and even ran an Instagram Story School for the entire Vans Pro Skateboard Team. A graduate of Harvard University with a degree in anthropology, Alix is also a vintage lover, music video director, photographer and confirmed maximalist. She is a big believer that you should move through life with confidence but never take yourself too seriously. She is not afraid to admit she is a self-proclaimed Instagram addict. And no, she can’t get you verified. ALEXANDRATYLER.COM LINKEDIN VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV LENNON PARHAM Actor, Writer & Director "I will be a sounding board, a cheerleader, and brainstorm collaborator for the direction you would like to head in your career. I can help you set goals and get specific about where it is you’d like to go. My expertise is in entertainment, specifically being a writer-actor-director mostly in the comedy world. Can’t wait to get started!" Lennon Parham is an actor, writer and director based in Los Angeles. As an actor, she just completed filming on “Holland, Michigan” a thriller directed by Mimi Cave and starring Nicole Kidman and Matthew Macfadyen. And the new season of Minx (a comedy set in the world of 70’s erotic magazines) airs late this summer on STARZ. She directed two episodes of HBO’s acclaimed series “Somebody Somewhere” which just aired. Prior to that, she was a series regular on FOX's BLESS THIS MESS, for which she also directed two episodes. She co-created and starred in her own ½ hour USA series, PLAYING HOUSE, for 3 critically acclaimed seasons, also directing a HOOSIERS-inspired episode in Season 3. From TV, you may recognize her as Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ incompetent Senior Advisor, “Karen Collins” on HBO’s VEEP. Additionally, Lennon has made a number of memorable appearances on television including CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, Netflix’s LADY DYNAMITE, AMC’s MAD MEN, ABC’s SCHOOLED, NBC’s PARKS AND RECREATION and more recently BETTER THINGS. On the feature side, she also had flashy supporting roles in THE HOUSE, HORRIBLE BOSSES 2, CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC and OTHER PEOPLE. She has written a comedy feature for UNIVERSAL and is currently writing another with her long-time collaborator Jessica St. Clair. She is a proud alumnus of the Upright Citizen’s Brigade Theater and the University of Evansville. VIEW ALL MENTORS

FILM/TV MARCELLE KARP Editorial/Creative Director | Brand Strategist | Marketing Magnet "I was never mentored at any point during my career. I had to navigate everything on my own and I made A LOT of mistakes. As a mentor I will guide you towards your potential and help you avoid burning bridges as I did. I will share whatever I possess in my skill set to help further you in your career path. My mentorship is a marriage of my experience, my wisdom and my devotion to my mentee." I have built my career understanding the power of the female brain on fire, the girl who is at the front, the woman juggling and struggling. Are you a writer? I'll show you how to find your voice, nurture it, unleash it. Are you interested in being a Creative Director? I'll unpack what that entails, guide you through corporate shenanigans, bolster your LinkedIn profile. Are you contemplating your next move? Oh my, let's get started. I can help you with any of those things. Here's some part of what I reign at: being your cheerleader. And here is a short list of some of what makes me right for you, how I tap into my voice, how I am always searching for more: I've had to tell Tyler Perry not to sing Millie Jackson's "Phuck You Symphony" in my on-air spot, I've had the great pleasure to produce a monthly stand-up show and I co-founded one of the pioneering zines of Third Wave Feminism, BUST. I've worked at SiriusXM/Pandora, BET, Madison Square Garden, the NFL, HBO, Lifetime, and so many other brands, as a Creative Director. I published my first YA novel GETTING OVER MAX COOPER in 2022. I got my Master's in Women and Gender Studies in 2023. And I'm just getting started. At my core, I'm a storyteller. I'd rather write than do most anything, and I know this: every woman has a story to tell. I'll mentor you to tap into yours. PRESS BLOG REEL "My marvelous mentor Marcelle expanded my perception of who I was by offering a safe space for me to explore my place in this chapter of my life. She told me, "Rejection is not the obstacle, it's lack of effort." This statement propelled me into my potential as a writer. Not only did Marcelle light the fire, but she also fanned the flame." — Janel "My experience with the Unlock Her Potential mentorship program has been nothing short of fantastic. I was selected to be a part of the program the first year and that’s when I met Marcelle Karp. During that year Marcelle encouraged and inspired me with her words of wisdom and kindness during our one-hour sessions. Her jovial spirit added a light-heartedness to our virtual meets which were during the pandemic. She always gave me a task to complete to help me stay on track to meet my goals, rather it was ways to expand my audience with my podcast or writing every day for 15 minutes, which eventually turned into one hour. As a writer, stand-up comic, and artist she was instrumental in helping me develop my level of discipline towards how I approach my creativity. I always left those meetings with my head held higher and a little bit more pep in my step. Thank you a million times to Marcelle for guiding and mentoring me, still!" — Rukeyah "I met my UHP mentor Marcelle Karp in 2021, the pivotal year I chose to break-up with my 10-year career as an academic mindfulness researcher. Determined to pursue a dream life as a creative professional, I pushed myself to land a new job as the Director of Communications at a Global Health NGO. I was ready to work with them to produce international video series about activist health workers in the pandemic, but found myself battling with severe nerves and impostor syndrome. Marcelle's mentorship helped me leap past my fears and step into the role to lead my team with confidence. She offered invaluable feedback as I successfully pitched, funded, produced, and launched the video series. Every conversation inspired me to tap deeper into my strengths, build new professional networks, and navigate the ups and downs of being a multidisciplinary creative leader. Since our year together, her advice has supported my capacity to take on new writing clients, travel internationally as a creative producer, and instill a work-life balance that aligns with my health and life goals. Meeting up with Sophia and Marcelle in New York after a year of Zooming in from California was an added layer of bliss to my mentorship experience. Now, as a UHP alumni, I aim to pay my blessings forward and open doors for other women of color within my industry. I'm honored to have been part of this mentorship cohort, and believe in growing this movement so more women of color can access lifechanging opportunities." — Sami VIEW ALL MENTORS

MUSIC ILEANA DIEZ Brand Strategist | Creative Marketing "As a mentor, it is my aim to create a trusting space where we can discuss how to build a brand, the creation of a marketing campaign that resonates with target audiences, as well as how to develop impactful strategies for projects both big and small. As an entrepreneur who has taken many turns in my career, I have a wealth of knowledge into how to make career pivots that build upon your experience and continue moving you forward to your professional goals." Named one of Billboard Magazine’s 2021 “40 Under 40,” Ileana V. Diez integrates creativity and innovation into all things that she does. Once described as a Swiss Army knife of marketing, Ileana is the founder of her own brand strategy and creative marketing consultancy, focused on creating authentic connections between brands and culture. Operating between Los Angeles, Paris, Mexico City, Singapore, and Miami, she blends her unique expertise in music, fashion, and media to deliver cross-industry campaigns. Ileana has partnered with brands like Golden Goose, Netflix, Spotify, PgLang, and Cartier, leveraging her deep understanding of culture to craft strategic partnerships that align marketing strategies with cultural trends and regional nuances, ensuring campaigns resonate and make audiences feel seen and heard. Previously Head of Marketing at Roc Nation, Ileana led campaigns for over 70 clients, focusing on developing IP, building business for clients, and with them. Her notable work includes Rihanna’s first return to music in over five years, the launch of Rihanna’s luxury fashion brand FENTY Maison (LVMH), and Mariah Carey’s career-defining 30th Anniversary campaign and Supreme brand partnership. Prior to Roc Nation, she played a key role in launching Shawn Mendes’ career and re-launching Nick Jonas’ solo career at Island Records. Born in Puerto Rico and raised as a third-culture kid, Ileana’s passions include empowering women of color in creative industries, exploring new communities, and enjoying good food and wine. "As a young creative starting her first big girl job out of college, Ileana’s mentorship provided me with fierce words of wisdom that couldn’t have come at a better time." —Priyanka P. "Ileana helped me feel certain that I'm doing all the right things for my career switch to music. She boosted my confidence and trust in myself to continue being independent, rather than go get a full time job (just for the sake of added security) that doesn't serve my health, lifestyle or passions." —Maaheem A. VIEW ALL MENTORS