FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

July 13, 2021

Media Contact:

Amy Malone, Girl in Charge 323-972-4081 Direct

amy@gicpublicrelations.net

Statement from Women of Color Unite (WOCU): The Evolution of #StartWith8

With great excitement and anticipation, the co-creators and developers of the mentorship program #StartWith8 will be expanding its reach globally. Unfortunately, we will not be moving forward with some of the original team. The vision of the program will continue to live and thrive with Women of Color Unite (WOCU) founder, Cheryl L. Bedford, and her organization.

As we move into a new phase of growth and expansion for #StartWith8, we do so with Program Director, Manon De Reeper, at the helm. From the launch in July 2020, Ms. De Reeper has spearheaded the program with her small team, resulting in almost 1,000 Women of Color being matched and working in the entertainment industry with established industry mentors. This incredible pairing has resulted in: (A) the development of professional relationships and friendships; (B) personalized career referrals; and (C) one-on-one advice and discussions focused on creating sustainable avenues of success in the entertainment and media industries.

As #StartWith8 expands to the UK, Canada, and beyond, we look forward to continuing the cycle of success the program experienced in Hollywood. We are grateful for the leaders, volunteers and visionaries who helped bring #StartWith8 to this point.

It’s now time for the evolution of the largest mentorship program for womxn of color in entertainment and media. We look forward to matching more mentees with mentors not only in Hollywood but across the world, making #StartWith8 an international movement!

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