Dear Loop Lab Community,
I hope this message reaches you in good spirits and brimming with anticipation and excitement, much like the energy buzzing here at The Loop Lab. As we take a moment to look back on the recent happenings and achievements, I'm eager to unveil some of the extraordinary highlights that have unfolded within our community in the past few months.
I am proud to share the success of our recent Apprentice Showcase held on January 17th. Hosted by Lisa Simmons, founder of the Roxbury International Film Festival, this event showcased compelling short films addressing social issues in Cambridge. Co-sponsored by Audible, State Street Foundation, and The Brattle Foundation, the showcase fostered awareness and dialogue, reflecting our commitment to community engagement and collaboration.
Cohort 6 sits on stage during the audience Q&A after screening their final films at the Brattle Theatre
In February, we celebrated Black History Month with a second screening of the apprentice films at Google Cambridge, a significant milestone in our efforts to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities through media arts. The event spotlighted the four impactful short documentaries produced by our students during their time with The Loop Lab. These projects, crafted in partnership with Audible, offer diverse perspectives on issues facing youth in Cambridge.
Christopher Hope poses on the Google stage before the screening of apprentice films
Looking forward, we’ve secured the privilege of hosting an event in collaboration with YWCA Cambridge, to provide professional headshots to residents of their emergency family shelter and single-room occupancy (SRO) residence. This initiative, aimed at empowering individuals through high-quality photography, has received overwhelming support. We are honored to return to the YWCA for a second year all while continuing to play a role in providing more women with the opportunities for confidence and professional development.
I am also delighted to announce a new partnership between The Loop Lab and the National Alliance of Media Arts and Culture. This collaboration signifies great opportunities, apprenticeship training, and job placement pipelines aligned with our shared vision of creating sustainable pathways to creative careers. Together, we envision a future where quality, community-based support and industry opportunities are accessible to all.
As we continue to forge ahead, guided by our shared values and vision for change, I invite you to join us in celebrating these achievements and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead. Your unwavering support is integral to our mission, and we are deeply grateful for your continued belief in our work.
Loop Lab staff members, contractors, and alumni have fun during headshots taken by alum Abraham Lopez
Thank you for being an essential part of our community, and I look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you in the months to come.
With immense gratitude,
Christopher Hope
Executive Director, The Loop Lab