Soundworks Workforce Development Program

Support for foster and systems-impacted youth

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Soundworks recognizes the significant challenges faced by foster and systems-impacted youth, including limited access to stable support systems and career opportunities. We aim to bridge the gap between these youth and tech and creative industries, providing essential skills and hands-on experience in video production, live sound, recording studio audio engineering, and lighting design. We strive to advance youth economic opportunities and foster their participation in the creative economy.
Tanisha Hall, the founder of WHAA, brings invaluable experience to our mission. As a DCFS foster parent for over 20 years, she deeply understands the needs of these youth. Additionally, with a 15-year career in the entertainment industry prior to founding WHAA, Tanisha leverages her extensive network and industry knowledge to create pathways for success. Her commitment to fostering talent and providing opportunities for underrepresented youth drives our holistic approach to workforce development.

The Soundworks Program is a comprehensive workforce development initiative designed to empower transitional-aged foster youth and systems-impacted youth (ages 18-24) in South LA. Through partnerships with White Hall Arts Academy (WHAA) and Tiny Room Studios, the program offers training in video production, live sound, recording studio audio engineering, and lighting design. Our holistic approach focuses on addressing three key issues: support for foster and systems-impacted youth, access to tech and creative industry employment, and youth economic advancement. By participating in this program, youth are equipped with the necessary technical skills, practical experience, and ongoing support that are essential in helping them to navigate and excel in the competitive landscape of the creative economy.
Soundworks leverages local cultural assets to create a comprehensive learning experience that enhances both technical and life skills while fostering social-emotional growth. By partnering with churches and local venues, we offer dynamic training grounds for participants. Each cohort of participants will engage in 3-hour sessions, twice weekly for 12 weeks. Through hands-on training with live events, theatrical productions, and community celebrations, youth will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration skills. These experiences prepare them for careers in sound engineering and equip them with valuable, transferable skills for various fields.

If the Soundworks program is successful, Los Angeles County will experience a transformative impact on multiple levels. Youth will have greater access to stable, rewarding careers in creative industries, breaking cycles of underemployment and exclusion. They will infuse our creative economy with fresh talent and perspectives, making it more inclusive and diverse. We will see reduced rates of recidivism among these youth, as they gain skills and confidence to pursue their ambitions.
Plus, the success stories from our program will inspire and mentor future generations, creating a powerful cycle of empowerment and opportunity. The positive ripple effects will be immense—enhancing social cohesion, reducing inequality, and contributing to a vibrant, thriving Los Angeles County where all residents feel they have the chance to succeed and contribute to the cultural and economic fabric of our great city.

Participants acquiring internships with high level entertainment companies will be a key measure of success for our program. We will work with industry partners to secure internship opportunities for participants therein providing real-world experience and professional networking opportunities. Success in securing and completing internships is a critical indicator of participants' readiness to transition into being a member of the creative industry workforce.