Our Story
Prelude was co-founded by Abbi Jacobson and Mieka Tennant with a clear vision: to level the playing field for entry into the film and TV industry.
Through years of experience, Abbi and Mieka saw firsthand the unwritten rules of success and how access to networks, events, and insider knowledge often dictates opportunity. They understood what it takes to thrive, and more importantly, who often gets left behind, and how difficult it can be to gain the confidence to create.
Rooted in play, experimentation, and the belief that creativity flourishes before credentials, Prelude lives up to its name: a beginning, a spark, a moment of preparation for what’s next.
Prelude is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Our Impact
The film and TV industry presents a range of challenges, from securing project funding to building networks and economic viability. Many careers in this industry are often inaccessible to those without the necessary funds, resources, and connections, making it essential to address these disparities with a priority on underrepresented communities.
Prelude has responded to these systemic barriers by creating moments of access and opportunities that directly challenge the industry's exclusivity. Through targeted programming and strategic partnerships, Prelude opens doors for emerging storytellers.
Statistics
- 100%of our 2026 cohort identify as female-identifying and non-binary100%of our 2026 cohort identify as female-identifying and non-binary
- 90%of our 2026 cohort identify as BIPOC90%of our 2026 cohort identify as BIPOC
- 80%of our 2026 cohort identify as LGBTQIA+80%of our 2026 cohort identify as LGBTQIA+
Testimonial
“This is the opportunity that I have been wanting and waiting for. I have to remind myself that I deserve to be curious about this world and explore opportunistic pathways that can shape a life for me that I never thought I could achieve before.”
Team
- Abbi JacobsonFounder of Tender Pictures. Writer, Actor, Director
- Mieka TennantHead of Strategy and Impact at Tender Pictures
- Lisa EscuderoBrand and Program Advisor
- Jenna AllchinFacilitator
- Giovanna FischerFacilitator
- Davida KorenFacilitator
Advisory Board
- Jenna AllchinProducer ex. YouTube, Spotify, Vogue
- Paul BernonCo-Founder and Partner, Burn Later Productions; Peabody Award-winning producer
- Scotty CroweFilmmaker, and VP of Audio WABE
- Giovanna FischerChief Equity Officer, Los Angeles LGBT Center
- Erika FlynnHead of Partnerships, Letterboxd, ex. TED, Sundance Institute
- Abbi JacobsonFounder of Tender Pictures. Writer, Actor, Director
- Davida KorenLegislative Deputy, City of Los Angeles & Youth Advocate
- Candice LuEVP, Qvest.US
- Mieka TennantHead of Strategy and Impact at Tender Pictures
- Kim YutaniDirector of Programming, Sundance Film Festival
Partners
- A24 website

- Kodak website

- Final Draft website

- Master Class website

- The Criterion Collection website

- Motion Picture Association website

- Shot Deck website

- Community Partners website

- Los Angeles LGBT Center website

- Girls Write Now website

- Reparations Club website

- Inside Out Writers website

- Young Storytellers website

- Youth Cinema Project website
