Creative Career cohort

Applications for the 2026 Creative Career Cohort (CCC) opens Monday, November 3rd 2025!

Group of 10 BIPOC students posing in front of a white background
CCC 2026 Cohort

The Creative Career Cohort (CCC) is a 17-week career-connected affinity learning program for BIPOC students aged 15-19 (sophomores - seniors) interested in creative career fields.

The program takes place in the YIF Seattle office where students are provided with arts education, technical photography skills and work on real commercial projects, a supportive community, and a $1,400 stipend for participating.

We combine professional teaching artists, corporate partners, and nonprofit arts staff to showcase career opportunities, provide access to industry professionals, and to expand the professional network for each participant. Students participate in mock interviews and develop a portfolio.

Program graduates are eligible for hire with YIF photography and professional projects.

Who's Eligible?

  • Any youth who identifies as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color)
  • Currently in their sophomore - senior year
  • Can commit to 17 weeks of in-person classes @ Youth in Focus Office (every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 - 7:00 PM / TBD)
  • Priority given to those who do not have access to arts education through school or extra curricular activities
Apply Here!

Timeline for the Creative Career Cohort:

  • Session One: January 20th - February 26th
    Camera and Digital Editing Fundamentals
  • Session Two: March 3rd - April 9th
    Honing Artistic Vision
  • Session Three: April 21st - June 4th
    Portfolio and Job Readiness

Timeline for the Application Process:

  • Application deadline: Sunday, November 30th, 2026 @ 11:59PM
  • Applications will be reviewed December 2nd & you will be notified of your application status
  • 25 applications will be chosen to interview for 10 positions
  • Interviews will take place between December 3rd-12th
  • Application status will be shared on December 17th
  • Final class roster will be confirmed on January 10th
  • The program starts January 20th
Apply Here!
A group of 10 BIPOC students standing by on railing in a park with their cameras pointed at the photographer