The Hollywood Reporter's Women in Entertainment Mentorship Program Marks 15 Years of Making a Difference

On Tuesday evening in Hancock Park, industry leaders and rising talent gathered for a night of conversation and celebration, honoring the 15th anniversary of The Hollywood Reporters Women in Entertainment Mentorship Program. In collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles and the Entertainment Industry Foundation, the initiative connects female executives in entertainment with young women from underserved Los Angeles high schools.

The event, hosted at a private residence, was filled with energy as mentors reunited with former mentees, exchanging stories about career growth and life changes. Paola Franco, a participant in 201314 and now part of Netflixs original drama series development team, reflected on the support she received at a pivotal age. She recalled entering the program at 16, unsure of her path, and finding clarity through the guidance of former Amazon Studios head Jennifer Salke, who was then president of entertainment at NBC and ultimately became a defining figure in her professional life.

Franco noted how seeing Salke at work reshaped her future, showing her that a career in entertainment was possible. Salke, who later officiated Francos wedding, offered access, encouragement and a firsthand view into the world Franco would ultimately enter.

Katherine Haro, part of the 201819 cohort, shared similar gratitude toward her mentor Dee Dee Myers, who at the time served as executive vice president of worldwide corporate communications at Warner Bros. Haro said that Myers instilled confidence and self-advocacy, lessons she carries into every decision she makes.

During the celebration, the newest mentees and the 2025 graduating class were honored, highlighting the programs ongoing impact. Lauren Plichta, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles, emphasized the programs strength not only introducing young women to Hollywood, but also revealing the wide range of careers within the entertainment world. Many participants, she said, arrive uncertain of their professional interests but leave with direction, connections and meaningful opportunities.

The mentorship experience goes far beyond conversation. Haro reflected on visits to major studios and time spent inside real working environments moments that solidified her interest in the industry. Franco shared similar memories, describing a year spent closely shadowing Salke at table reads, meetings, set visits and calls, gaining an intimate look at how projects are developed and approved.

Mentors often express that they benefit just as deeply. Producer and BBBSLA board member Jane Cha Cutler described guiding her mentee through the college application process a journey that led to a full scholarship at UC Berkeley. She spoke of museum visits, meals and office tours, emphasizing that the most meaningful part is simply offering time and attention.

As the gathering showed, many mentor-mentee relationships continue long after the program ends. Row K Entertainment president and outgoing BBBSLA Board Chair Megan Colligan affirmed that the community built through this initiative is designed to last, promising continued support for each participant long into the future.

Analysis: The Lasting Impact of Mentorship in Hollywood

The 15th anniversary celebration of The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Mentorship Program demonstrates the tangible benefits of structured guidance for young women entering the entertainment industry. By connecting female executives with students from underserved Los Angeles high schools, the program has consistently created pathways for professional growth.

Former mentees like Paola Franco and Katherine Haro highlight the program’s long-term influence. Their experiences illustrate how mentorship provides more than advice—it offers real-world exposure, confidence building, and access to networks that might otherwise remain out of reach.

Mentors also gain from the relationship, as seen in Jane Cha Cutler’s reflections on guiding a mentee to a full scholarship. These interactions underscore a reciprocal dynamic that strengthens both professional and personal development on both sides.

Looking forward, the program’s ongoing engagement with new and graduating cohorts ensures that its impact extends beyond a single event. By fostering lasting connections and offering practical insight into entertainment careers, it continues to shape the next generation of industry leaders.

Sources:

• The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Mentorship Program Celebrates 15 Years of Impact