Vance Byrd Mentorship

In 2014, through our work at George Washington Preparatory High School in South Los Angeles, BAFTA mentors were introduced to Vance Byrd. Everyone who met Vance, even briefly, came away with the distinct impression that he was an extraordinary young man, with a unique voice and an abundance of promise. He found expression for his talent through the film program in his classroom and was encouraged and championed by his teacher Mr. McCane, the Washington Prep faculty, and mentors from BAFTA.

Vance began to focus on the technique of filmmaking, learning about the camera and editing. By the end of the year, he not only directed his short film, he became a leader among his peers, stressing the importance of education and commitment. He was engaged, forward-looking and was applying to college.

Vance was murdered in front of his home in late 2015, and his sudden and tragic loss was keenly felt by the teachers and students at Washington Prep, as well as by those of our mentors who had worked so closely with him. In response to this loss, we established the ‘High Flyers’ program, to engage students like Vance outside of school, and provide them with opportunities that are too often denied to young people in their communities.

In 2021 we expanded that program, naming it after the exceptional student who inspired it. Vance will continue to provide the motivation and focus of this program long after his passing.