A Word From The President

 Melessa Sargent..8.21.13.

 

“The greatest personal limitation is to be found not in the things you want to do and can’t, but in the things you’ve never considered doing.”

— Richard Bandler

 

 

Dear Members, Speakers, Guests, and Friends,

It is an honor to continue serving as President of the Scriptwriters Network (SWN). Over the years, we’ve grown tremendously in our mission to educate and empower writers across all media — from film and television to digital platforms, comics, novels, and video games.

 

 

Expanding Opportunities for Writers

Ms. Sargent presenting at a live SWN event

Under my leadership, SWN helps writers:

  • Craft the perfect script that gets noticed

  • Navigate careers in TV, film, and new media

  • Access top-tier industry professionals who give back through teaching and mentorship

Our Members Only section offers exclusive resources for annual members, including:

  • Videos, audio, and notes from past events

  • Worksheets and educational documents from our speakers

  • Discounts from SWN partners

We have also partnered with several TV networks’ Diversity Programs, connecting our members to exciting industry opportunities.

 

 

Achievements and Recognition

Under my leadership, SWN and I have received numerous awards and honors reflecting our dedication to writers and education:

  • Great Nonprofits Top-Rated Non-Profit Award (2013, 2018)

  • Los Angeles Award for Education (2014–2017)

  • Los Angeles Business Hall of Fame Award – Education (2018–2024)

  • Best of Glendale Award – Non-Profit (2019–2020)

  • Best of Glendale Business Hall of Fame Award – Non-Profit (2021–2024)

  • Official Commendation – Belize Film Commission (2018, 2019)

  • Lux Life Magazine – Global Hospitality Award (2019)

  • Innovation & Excellence Award (2020)

  • …and several additional honors and media features to date

 

Beyond SWN, I serve as Program Advisor for the Women in Leadership 2022 Program at UC Santa Barbara and am listed in the 2022 Marquis Who’s Who of Top Executives.

Program Advisor — UC Santa Barbara Women in Leadership

 

Marquis Who’s Who of Top Executives – 2022, recognizing Melessa Y. Sargent

 

These recognitions reflect SWN’s and my continued commitment to helping writers succeed, while our focus remains on empowering creatives to thrive in their careers.

 

 

Our Speakers and Mentors

SWN brings in top industry professionals to guide writers through the art, craft, and business of scriptwriting. Some of our notable past speakers include:

  • Jen Grisanti – Story & Career Consultant / NBC Diversity Program Instructor

  • Karen Kirkland – Literary Agent, Abrams Artists Agency

  • Eric Haywood – Co-Executive Producer, Empire

  • Keto Shimizu – Co-Executive Producer, Legends of Tomorrow & Arrow

  • Dayna Lynne North – Co-Executive Producer, Insecure

  • Steven L. Sears – Producer, Xena: Warrior Princess

  • Micho Rutare – Development Executive, Sharknados

  • Sherley Ibarra – Nickelodeon Director of Talent Development & Outreach

…and many more incredible industry professionals!

View the full list of past speakers and their works here.

 

 

Script Submission Programs

SWN operates programs that help writers refine their craft and connect with the industry:

These programs also teach the critical skill of reading and analyzing scripts, one of the best ways to improve your own writing.

 

Ms. Sargent teaching the Script Analysis Readers Class

 

 

Exciting Programs Ahead

We are thrilled to introduce our 2026 Education Series, featuring masterclasses and workshops designed for writers at every stage, from concept to career. Topics cover story development, industry navigation, and the business of writing.

 

Virtual masterclass with Ms. Sargent

Ms. Sargent leading an in-person SWN workshop

 

 

How You Can Get Involved

  • Attend Events: Networking is crucial — you never know who you may meet or collaborate with

  • Become a Member: Gain exclusive access to resources and workshops

  • Volunteer or Mentor: Support emerging writers while expanding your professional network

  • Donate or Sponsor: Help us continue offering high-quality programs and opportunities for writers at all levels

 

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I invite you to join us in growing the Scriptwriters Network, learning from industry experts, and taking your writing to the next level.

 

 

Scriptwriters Network is proud to be recognized with Candid’s 2026 Gold Seal of Transparency, reflecting our ongoing commitment to serving writers with integrity and openness.

 

 

Thank you for your continued support of SWN.

We look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event or masterclass.

 

With humility and thanks,

Melessa Y. Sargent
President & CEO, Scriptwriters Network Foundation, Inc.