Looking Back On The Inaugural MakeMake Residencies Program
MakeMake Residencies has officially wrapped, and our residents — Adiana Rivera, Jason Gaines, Anfernee Aguado, Mohammed Rahman, and Pilar Fitzgerald — have consistently impressed us with their dedication, curiosity, and talent.
Supported by the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, MakeMake Residencies opens pathways for diverse professionals working in the entertainment industry. To deepen their storytelling craft and build the skills they need to thrive, Residents collaborated directly with MakeMake’s artists and producers. They also attended a series of curated guest speaker events and internal studio talks, and worked with recruiting and career development consultancy Good Cheer to support Residents’ networking efforts in the industry.
While we will miss seeing the Residents in the day-to-day, we’re so proud of all they have accomplished and can’t wait to see what they do next! Before the residency wrapped, we had the chance to connect with each resident to hear about the relationships they formed at MakeMake and their goals for the future.
Adiana Rivera, Editorial Resident
Adiana worked as an Assistant Editor at Rock Paper Scissors and MakeMake Entertainment.
What was a meaningful relationship you developed during the program?
My mentors Ceylan Carhoglu and Michael Engelken both helped me navigate and get adjusted as an assistant editor. Also, everyone who I connected with at RPS New York offices — I could turn to anyone there and they would offer me nothing but support.
What’s next for you post-residency?
Having now worked on a feature length documentary, I learned crucial teamwork, storytelling and technical skills. It has made me a more curious and hungry storyteller. For the immediate future, I look to gain more experience and knowledge as an assistant editor with the goal of becoming a documentary editor and director.
Jason Gaines, Design & Visual Effects Resident
Jason worked as a VFX and animation artist at Elastic.
What was a meaningful relationship you developed during the program?
My mentorship with Lee Buckley, from being a Cinema4D encyclopedia to reassurance and validation, Lee has been there for me every step of this journey.
What’s next for you post-residency?
I've explored Unreal Engine's possibilities through tutorials and courses during my residency and am eager to learn more. Additionally, I have a continued enthusiasm for Cinema4D, especially in animation and title sequences, and I'm looking for opportunities to contribute my skills in this area. As a filmmaker and content creator, I'm dedicated to expanding my network and collaborating within the filmmaking and VFX community.
Anfernee Aguado, Production Resident
Anfernee worked as an Associate Producer at MakeMake Entertainment.
Was there a meaningful relationship you developed during the program?
I developed a meaningful relationship with my mentor Terry Leonard. He was always there to support me with any questions I had and to give me any advice about the industry.
What’s next for you post-residency?
As a young and passionate producer, my career goals are centered around crafting impactful stories and contributing to the dynamic world of filmmaking. I thrive in opportunities to collaborate with diverse and creative teams, and I recognize the importance of inclusive representation in our industry. Following the residency, I aspire to continue to build my portfolio and learn from experienced professionals to enhance my skills as a producer and filmmaker.
Mohammed Rahman, Editorial Resident
Moh worked as an Editor at Rock Paper Scissors and MakeMake Entertainment.
What was a meaningful relationship you developed during the program?
Definitely my mentor/supervisor Will Znidaric. His feedback on pacing in my cuts has helped me become a more thoughtful editor. He is patient, kind, and honest when there’s room to improve. I have immense respect for him and look forward to being his mentee for life!
What’s next for you post-residency?
Over the past few months, I've had the chance to work on main titles and pivotal scenes for a true crime docu-series. I have a knack for working on scenes with a lot of emotion and transitional moments that require editorial finesse. I’m looking for more opportunities to work with compelling material.
Pilar Fitzgerald, Sound Supervision Resident
Pilar worked as a Music Supervisor resident at Jax and Indestructible.
What was a particularly meaningful relationship you developed during the program?
I'm grateful for my relationship with the Music Team at Jax. Anny Colvin, Andrew Whyte, and Charlie Finley have all taught me so much, not just about the work, but about navigating the industry as a whole. They’ve all been so patient with me and so encouraging of my growth.
What’s next for you post-residency?
For my next move, I'm leaning into my love of the creative music search process and seeking creative sync roles. I love supporting musicians and songwriters and helping them expand their reach, especially through the film and television space, and I love it even more when those artists are independent or in the early stages of their careers.
