PROGRAMS
CREATIVE ARTS
WORKSHOPS
Our workshops provide youth with hands-on learning experiences in media arts.
Programs focus on skill development, creativity, and confidence in a supportive environment.
WHY CHOOSE US
WHY OUR WORKSHOPS MATTER
Students learn foundational skills in film, cinematography, photography, and music production using real equipment.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE
Youth ages 13–18
Open to all skill levels
No prior experience required
Parent/guardian registration required
WHAT WE OFFER
Hands-on instruction with real equipment
Experienced instructors and mentors
Safe, supportive learning spaces
Focus on confidence and creative growth
Community-centered programming
SPRING 2026 CREATIVE ARTS WORKSHOPS
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Youth (Ages 13–18)
Film & Cinematography
Photography
Music Production
Acting & Creative Expression
Location:
Ivory / Baker Recreation Center
1920 Stroud Park Ct
Charlotte, NC 28206
Dates:
Every Saturday
February 14 – March 29, 2026
Time:
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Cost:
Free
MEET THE
SPRING 2026 INSTRUCTORS
➡
TAYLOR
Marketing Coordinator / UNC Intern
A third-year Communication Studies student at UNCC with a concentration in media and technology. She's passionate about everything related to the communications and media field, from broadcast journalism to social media marketing. Through coursework and personal experience, she's been honing her craft of writing, both creative and journalistic, and working with digital media.
JUSTIN
Cinematography Instructor
A Charlotte‑based creative professional with over 25 years of experience in video production, photography, and collaborative camera work across unscripted, narrative, and live entertainment projects. His work has been seen on HGTV, Food Network, ABC, NBC, Bravo, TLC, OWN, Lifetime, and Netflix, to name a few. He is originally from NJ, and earned his BFA in Film & TV from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. He has also earned his certificate in directing multi-camera television from the BBC in London, England. In his free time Justin serves on the board of an animal welfare foundation and loves to travel with his wife while photographing the world!
NAOMI
Cinematography Intern
A junior at UNC Charlotte studying Theatre with a concentration in Directing, Dramaturgy, and Dramatic Writing and Communication Studies with a concentration in Media & Technology and a minor in Film Production. I'm very passionate about filmmaking, cinematography, photography, and editing. I have experience in dance, acting, and writing. Through coursework and personal experience, I'm building my craft in video production and cinematic storytelling.
MILAN
Content Producer & Video Editing Coach
The founder of MilanX Productions, a Charlotte-based creative agency specializing in social media marketing and commercial video production. Beginning her entrepreneurial journey at 14, she is passionate about extending her creative gift to the next generation—using storytelling as a vessel to empower young creators and future leaders.
NAOMI
Cinematography Intern
A junior at UNC Charlotte studying Theatre with a concentration in Directing, Dramaturgy, and Dramatic Writing and Communication Studies with a concentration in Media & Technology and a minor in Film Production. I'm very passionate about filmmaking, cinematography, photography, and editing. I have experience in dance, acting, and writing. Through coursework and personal experience, I'm building my craft in video production and cinematic storytelling.
MILAN
Content Producer & Video Editing Coach
The founder of MilanX Productions, a Charlotte-based creative agency specializing in social media marketing and commercial video production. Beginning her entrepreneurial journey at 14, she is passionate about extending her creative gift to the next generation—using storytelling as a vessel to empower young creators and future leaders.
LAUREN
Photography Instructor
Passion for visual storytelling and highlighting distinct narratives drives her professional and personal pursuits. She is a passionate Visual Storyteller, Photographer, Filmmaker, and Media Educator who depicts stories authentically. Lauren has over a decade of media experience, having studied and worked in broadcast, film production, and nonprofit and educational arenas.
GABRIELLE
Acting Instructor
A recent graduate of New York University and Northwest School of the Arts alumni. She has been acting since the age of 6 with work in various productions like the Golden Globe nominee Nickel Boys. A performer with a passion for storytelling that resonates, she brings a fresh perspective and disciplined craft to every project.
LAUREN
Photography Instructor
Passion for visual storytelling and highlighting distinct narratives drives her professional and personal pursuits. She is a passionate Visual Storyteller, Photographer, Filmmaker, and Media Educator who depicts stories authentically. Lauren has over a decade of media experience, having studied and worked in broadcast, film production, and nonprofit and educational arenas.
GABRIELLE
Acting Instructor
A recent graduate of New York University and Northwest School of the Arts alumni. She has been acting since the age of 6 with work in various productions like the Golden Globe nominee Nickel Boys. A performer with a passion for storytelling that resonates, she brings a fresh perspective and disciplined craft to every project.
WHAT STUDENTS
WILL EXPERIENCE
MEDIA ARTS TRAINING
Students learn foundational skills in film, cinematography, photography, and music production using real equipment.
INDUSTRY MENTORSHIP
Youth receive guidance from working creatives who model discipline, professionalism, and creative careers.
CONFIDENCE BUILDING
Workshops strengthen communication, teamwork, and self-expression in a supportive environment.
PROGRAM SHOWCASE
Students share their work with families and the community through presentations and creative showcases.
MEDIA ARTS TRAINING
Students learn foundational skills in film, cinematography, photography, and music production using real equipment.
INDUSTRY MENTORSHIP
Youth receive guidance from working creatives who model discipline, professionalism, and creative careers.
CONFIDENCE BUILDING
Workshops strengthen communication, teamwork, and self-expression in a supportive environment.
PROGRAM SHOWCASE
Students share their work with families and the community through presentations and creative showcases.
CREATIVE ARTS SHOWCASE
WHAT OUR PARENTS ARE SAYING...
Just gratitude. We never would have been able to afford to provide Evie with such great arts instruction in
such a positive environment. Thank you so much.
Since being in your program and learning about things he is interested in, Kaleb has opened up. He is more
vocal, his communication and confidence have increased, and I believe that interests in film, photography, and podcasting have increased. He has suggested creating his own podcast to a mechanic who works on aircraft’s. Thank you for this opportunity and flexibility with transportation.
The ability to learn from different aspects of the arts and to actually create a film was so exciting and fun
after everything from the fun field trips to the photography and every UNO game.