Sunwise Media Earns Industry Recognition with Harlem Globetrotters: Secrets of the City NAMIC Next Vision Award Nomination, as The Handy Foundation Drives Apprenticeship Access Through High-Profile Events April 26 – April 30
Media executive and changemaker Ri-Karlo Handy continues to build momentum across entertainment and workforce development through major updates from Sunwise Media, The Handy Foundation, and the growing Hollywood IQ platform, spanning award-winning content, career-building resources, and marquee industry events.
Sunwise Media celebrates Aspire TV’s recent Season 2 greenlight announcement of its breakout series, Harlem Globetrotters: Secrets of the City, offering an inside look at the global cultural influence and behind-the-scenes stories of the iconic Harlem Globetrotters.
The series is also generating global buzz following a viral moment filmed in Rome, where the Globetrotters met Pope Leo XIV and shared their signature basketball spin—an interaction that has captured worldwide attention and underscores the brand’s unique role as a cultural bridge. The production surrounding this moment also reflects Handy’s broader commitment to workforce development, with apprentices contributing on the ground to capture the lead-up and aftermath of the now widely shared exchange.
The series has also been honored with a prestigious NAMIC Vision Award nomination, recognizing its excellence in storytelling and commitment to authentic, inclusive representation.
With Season 2 underway, Sunwise Media continues to position itself at the intersection of culture, sports, and premium unscripted storytelling – amplifying global moments while creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation of talent.
The Rise of Hollywood IQ
Hollywood IQ, the podcast and Substack channel, is rapidly emerging as a go-to resource for entertainment industry creatives and content entrepreneurs looking to break in and level up.
More than a content platform, Hollywood IQ is a career-accelerating community led by Handy and supported by veteran Hollywood executives and producers who have built federally registered apprenticeship programs designed to open doors for the next generation of talent.
Through insider conversations, actionable insights, and real-world pathways, Hollywood IQ helps equip members with the tools, relationships, and access needed to grow sustainable careers in film, television, and digital media.
Handy Foundation’s Signature Events During National Apprenticeship Week
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, The Handy Foundation will host an exclusive screening of Michael in partnership with the California Film Commission on Wednesday, April 29 at AMC Universal CityWalk 19.
Moderated by Jasmine Sanders of the nationally syndicated DL Hughley Show, panelists will include industry leaders and rising talent. Highlighting real-world pathways into entertainment careers, the discussion is anchored by the success story of a Handy Foundation apprentice who worked on the film.
Up at the O2 – Showrunner/Executive Producer Ri-Karlo Handy oversees a shoot capturing The Globetrotters climbing the O2 approximately 52 meters high to see one of the best 360 views in London; Courtesy of Front Page Firm
The Handy Foundation will also host its Annual “Next Frame” Impact fundraiser event, convening top studios, executives, and changemakers to support its mission of expanding access and opportunity for underrepresented communities in entertainment.
The party will serve as both a celebration, honoring the contributions of key industry figures whose work has advanced the mission of the organization. It also serves as a strategic rallying point, fueling the continued growth of apprenticeship pathways and workforce development initiatives across Hollywood.
Together, these milestones underscore Handy’s growing influence at the intersection of storytelling and workforce development—proving that as global moments capture the world’s attention, he is simultaneously building the pipeline of talent behind them.
