NextMuse Collective
NextMuse is the nonprofit arm of MuseWorks, dedicated to empowering the next generation of underrepresented youth in media, production, and digital arts. We provide young people with the tools, guidance, and exposure needed to explore their creativity, build confidence, and develop real-world skills in storytelling and production.
Next Creative Currency Cohort
starting in July 2026
Every young creative starts somewhere. For some it is a phone camera, a sketch pad, or a beat made in their bedroom. NextMuse meets youth ages 13 to 18 where they are and walks with them toward where they want to go. Through cohort programs, mentorship, and hands-on time in a real production environment, we help young people turn creative curiosity into confidence, and confidence into a future.
From Curiosity to Career
Our Pillars
Creative Access
1
We create pathways for youth to explore media, filmmaking, production, writing, photography, design, and more. Through workshops, studio access, and skill-building programs, we make creativity tangible and accessible.
Mentorship & Community
2
We connect young creatives with industry professionals, mentors, and peer support systems that foster confidence, growth, and long-term development.
Industry Exposure & Experience
3
Students gain hands-on experience in real production environments through MuseWorks Studio, shadowing opportunities, project-based learning, and real creative assignments that prepare them for future careers.
Equity & Representation
4
We champion diverse voices and ensure young people see themselves reflected in storytelling, leadership, and opportunities within creative industries.
Our Pillars
Creative Access
We create pathways for youth to explore media, filmmaking, production, writing, photography, design, and more. Through workshops, studio access, and skill-building programs, we make creativity tangible and accessible.
Mentorship & Community
We connect young creatives with industry professionals, mentors, and peer support systems that foster confidence, growth, and long-term development.
Industry Exposure & Experience
Students gain hands-on experience in real production environments through MuseWorks Studio, shadowing opportunities, project-based learning, and real creative assignments that prepare them for future careers.
Equity & Representation
We champion diverse voices and ensure young people see themselves reflected in storytelling, leadership, and opportunities within creative industries.
Our Team
President: Raashauna Payne
Secretary: Jasmine Newman
Program Development Chair:
Victoria Lartey
Community & Youth Advocacy Chair: Tyler R. Bellr:
Treasurer: Ashley Canizales
Governance & Compliance Chair: Tyler Thomas, Esq.
Join Our Team
Creative Currency is NextMuse’s signature digital media arts program that empowers youth through hands-on storytelling, mentorship, and real-world creative access.
We believe creativity is a powerful form of currency, building confidence, self-expression, and pathways to opportunity through media, arts, and production. The Creative Currency Cohort
Program Launch: March 2026
Application Deadline: February 14, 2026
Location: MuseWorks Studio, Los Angeles
Eligibility:Ages 12 - 18 interested in storytelling, creativity, and personal development
12 week program commitment
Apply early—spaces are limited, and priority will be given to students who submit before the deadline.
Current Donors
We are deeply grateful for the donors and supporters who believe in this initiative. Your generosity helps us create meaningful access to an industry we love, one that too often feels out of reach for young creatives.
We look forward to expanding our community of partners as we continue opening doors, building pathways, and ensuring every young storyteller has the opportunity to be seen, heard, and supported.
“This has been such a worthwhile investment in myself. I’d recommend it to anyone.”
— A Student from the Cohort
