Paramount Opens Applications for 21st Writers Mentoring Program, Expanding Pathways via Nickelodeon Integration
The Writers Mentoring Program is an eight-month initiative that pairs early-career writers with a Paramount brand executive for one-on-one mentorship and creative feedback.
RMN Stars Talent Desk
New Delhi | April 5, 2026
LOS ANGELES – Paramount has officially opened applications for the latest cycle of its Writers Mentoring Program, marking the 21st year of the initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of television talent. The application window opened Wednesday, April 1, and will remain active through Friday, May 1.
In a significant update to the program’s structure, Paramount has introduced a new integration with Nickelodeon’s Writing Program. This expansion is designed to bolster pathways for writers focused on Kids and Family as well as Young Adult (YA) content across the company’s various brands, including the CBS Network, CBS Studios, Paramount Television Studios, and Nickelodeon.
“By expanding our program into a unified mentoring experience across the Paramount ecosystem, we’re expanding opportunities for our writers and fostering relationships that support long-term careers across our portfolio,” said Tiffany Smith-Anoa’i, executive vice president of content engagement, partnerships, and strategy for TV Media at CBS.
A Comprehensive Career Launchpad
The Writers Mentoring Program is an eight-month initiative that pairs early-career writers with a Paramount brand executive for one-on-one mentorship and creative feedback. Beyond individual coaching, participants attend small workshop-style sessions with a variety of industry power players, including:
- Showrunners and Executive Producers
- Agents and Managers
- Development and Current Executives
Writers following the Kids and Family and YA pathways will receive specialized exposure to the creative teams behind major Paramount franchises such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and School Spirits.
Proven Track Record of Success
To date, the program has produced 154 alumni, with more than 100 individuals successfully launching careers through staffing, representation, or advancement to other industry programs. Notably, 12 alumni have risen to the level of showrunner or upper-level writer.
Prominent graduates of the Paramount program include:
- Angela Kang (The Walking Dead)
- Lauren LeFranc (The Penguin)
- Rafe Judkins (The Wheel of Time)
- Aaron Rahsaan Thomas (S.W.A.T.)
The Nickelodeon Writing Program has also seen its alumni achieve major industry success, including Jessica Gao (She-Hulk: Attorney at Law) and Travis Braun (Pupstruction).
How to Apply
The program operates under Paramount’s unified Paramount One talent strategy, which aims to bridge the gap between emerging creators and the company’s creative hubs. Interested writers can find more information and submit their applications through the official portal at https://writersmentoringprogram.paramount.com.
