News

Empowering the next generation: Disguise unveils inaugural frame:work grant recipients

frame:work Disguise grant new talent meetup

Disguise is proud to announce and celebrate the recipients of its inaugural grant initiative, selecting two students from this year’s frame:work New Talent List to receive dedicated support as they begin their careers in media and entertainment. 

This initiative reflects Disguise’s commitment to supporting underrepresented talent at a time when fresh perspectives and diverse voices are more important than ever. While the industry continues to evolve, breaking into media and entertainment can still present challenges – from limited access to networks to financial barriers. Through this initiative, Disguise is taking a meaningful step to help make entry into the industry more accessible for future talent.

We are  pleased to announce Loren Hawley as the UK grant recipient, alongside Lilliana Lopez, a US-based recipient, both recognised for their creativity, drive and future potential.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Loren said:
“I am truly honoured to be awarded this grant and was so excited to receive the news. This is such a unique opportunity and I would like to use it to explore integrated and immersive systems surrounding XR. I look forward to working with the team at Disguise and benefitting from the vast experience of their community.”

Lilliana added: 
“To me, the Disguise Acceleration Grant means endless opportunities and creativity. I am ecstatic and excited to learn! As someone who would like to work in immersive and live events, I am most excited to catch a glimpse of some industry professional workflows, and learn how I might design worlds that entertain as well as educate.”

In addition to the grant, both recipients will receive dedicated mentorship from members of the Disguise team, offering guidance and insight as they take their next steps. They will also gain paid, hands-on work experience with one of Disguise’s industry partners, tailored to their chosen area, providing valuable exposure to real projects, workflows and creative environments.

This combination of financial support, mentorship and practical experience is designed to give recipients a strong foundation as they begin to navigate a complex and fast-moving industry.

Supporting new talent is essential to the future of our industry. It’s a complex space with many different pathways, and not everyone has equal access to opportunities. Through these grants, we want to help open doors and provide the kind of support that can make a real difference.
Sarah Lewthwaite
Sarah Lewthwaite

SVP of Customer Excellence at Disguise

Disguise will be following Loren and Lilliana as they embark on their placements and mentorship journeys. Stay tuned for updates, behind-the-scenes looks at their projects, and insights into their career journeys across our blog and social channels. 

Please join us in congratulating all the honorees on frame:work’s 2026 New Talent List. You can visit their profiles and learn more about the New Talent program at here.