The Native American Media Alliance (NAMA) announced applications are open for the 8th Annual Native American TV Writers Lab.
The Native American TV Writers Lab is an online multi-week intensive scriptwriters program that prepares Native writers for careers at major television networks.
Sponsored by between NAMA, A+E Networks, US Bank and One Small Planet, the lab is accepting 10 fellows and will take place from April-May 2023.
Lab alumni include Shelley Dennis (Choctaw), story editor on ABC’s The Conners; John Timothy (Muskogee Creek), story editor on CBS’s Ghosts; and Kris Crenwelge (Choctaw), staff writer on CBS’s True Lies.
Each selected fellow will complete an original pilot during the multi-week program and receive feedback from peers and an experienced writing instructor.
In addition, scripts will be read by NAMA network and studio partners and will be added to the Native Writes database.
As well, fellows will meet with executive and literary agents from NAMA industry partners.
The lab will culminate in a pitch workshop during the 17th Annual LA SKINS FEST — a Native American film festival held in Los Angeles — in Nov. 2023. Each Native writer will pitch his or her scripts to creative executives from numerous production entities. Past executives have come from Bad Robot, Netflix, Amazon, A+E Networks and Warner Bros.
Season writers who can write at least one half-hour comedy or one-hour drama television script within five weeks are encouraged to apply.
Make A Donation Here
Each selected participant is expected to complete at least one script by the end of the five-week, which will then be read by network executives.
Apply here.
More Stories Like This
Traverse City to Host Screening of Anishinaabemowin Star Wars AdaptationThe North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame Announces 2025 Inductees
New Film Captures Sault Tribe’s Mission to Protect Great Lakes Whitefish
Anchorage Mayor Backs Eklutna Gaming Project Despite State Opposition
Native Identity, Lakota Family Ties Drive PBS Documentary 'Without Arrows'
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Our mission draws from the warrior spirit that has sustained Indigenous peoples for generations — the same spirit that drives us to stand guard over tribal rights through relentless investigation and fearless reporting.
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
