Where Opportunity Meets Action: Apprenticeship Week

Step into a week of connection, innovation, and real world opportunity. Explore a dynamic lineup of events, panels, and experiences designed to highlight pathways into today’s most in demand careers. Review the schedule to see what’s happening and where you can plug in.

Fundraiser: Handy Foundation to Auction Exclusive Michael Jackson Themed Framed Artwork

A distinguished, one-of-a-kind tribute to Michael Jackson painted by Shomari Smith, this original print captures the enduring legacy of an artist whose influence reshaped global culture.

Unveiled exclusively for this special screening, the artwork serves as a fitting centerpiece for an evening that celebrates excellence, innovation, and dedication. In alignment with Apprenticeship Week, it symbolizes the values of discipline, skill development, and the pursuit of mastery principles that defined Michael Jackson’s extraordinary career.

Available via auction as a special fundraising initiative on behalf of The Handy Foundation, bids are being accepted now through May 1, 2026 @ 8:00 PM PDT. This exceptional work not only honors an iconic figure but also invites reflection on the importance of nurturing talent and fostering the next generation of leaders and creators.

Submit Auction Bid Here: Exclusive Michael Jackson Framed Painting | One-of-a-Kind Artwork

RI-KARLO HANDY EXECUTIVE BIO

Handy has also led successful programming across networks including MTV, OWN, BET, and STARZ. A former senior executive at Blink49 Studios and Bounce TV, he is also the creator of the hit series Saints & Sinners. His work has earned a Daytime Emmy nomination and multiple industry honor.

Ri-Karlo Handy is a veteran producer, showrunner, and media executive with more than 25 years of experience shaping hit television and building pathways into the entertainment industry. As CEO of Sunwise Media and Founder & CEO of The Handy Foundation, he operates at the intersection of content creation and workforce development—driving both premium storytelling and scalable solutions to Hollywood’s talent ecosystem.

Handy currently serves as showrunner and executive producer of Harlem Globetrotters: Secrets of the City, which was recently nominated for a NAMIC Next Vision Award and renewed for a second season.

Through The Handy Foundation, Handy has built one of the industry’s leading apprenticeship programs, placing emerging talent on major productions in partnership with companies including Netflix, NBCUniversal, and Lionsgate—cementing his role as a driving force behind a more inclusive and future-ready entertainment industry.

Powering the Next Generation of Film & TV Talent

Ri-Karlo Handy in his element: one of the industry’s most sought-after voices on workforce and creative development, bringing clarity to the apprenticeship journey. From stages at NAB and UrbanWorld to rooms like this, he’s leading the conversation on how talent moves from access to opportunity.

California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom visits The Handy Foundation at IATSE Local 80 in Burbank, highlighting a key partnership creating real pathways into film and TV careers through apprenticeship.

At Hair Wars, The Handy Foundation’s Glam Squad—powered by NAACP and Netflix—brings apprenticeship to life with celebrity judges and program leaders creating real on-set opportunity.

Handy Foundation apprentices help power the @Laboratory construction kickoff in the Crenshaw corridor, advancing pathways for creators from impacted communities.

Recent Honors & Accolades

Ri-Karlo receives the Rockstar Award at ADCOLOR, honoring his impact and innovation in advancing culture, creativity, and representation within the industry.

Ri-Karlo is honored with the Cause + Action Award at NAPTE Honors, celebrating his work in turning purpose into practice and creating real pathways for change.

On stage at the NCTA annual Walter Kaitz Foundation fundraiser, Ri-Karlo is recognized with the Changemaker Award for his leadership in reshaping access and building more inclusive pathways to careers across television and film.

Founded by veteran production executive Ri-Karlo Handy, the Handy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on workforce development in the television, film, and media sectors. By implementing high-quality training programs and forming strategic partnerships, the foundation empowers underrepresented individuals and promotes inclusion in production roles. For more information about the Handy Foundation and its initiatives, please visit handyfoundation.com.

ABOUT SUNWISE MEDIA

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