Shonda Rhimes is a long-time supporter of women directors. Just look at the credits on her series. “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” and her other shows have all featured a significant number of episodes helmed by women, far above the industry average. The mogul’s company is teaming up with non-profit org SeriesFest for a new mentorship initiative for women directors that includes an opportunity to shadow a director for an episode of a Shondaland production, a press release announced.

Submissions are now open. You can apply on SeriesFest’s website until the deadline of March 4, 2019. The winner is slated to be announced in June 2019 at SeriesFest: Season 5.

Undoubtedly a good opportunity, shadowing doesn’t do nearly as much to further a burgeoning director’s career as an actual credit does, and it’s important to remember that. That’s why we’re big fans of initiatives that include shadowing and the chance to actually direct, such as NBC’s Female Forward and Emerging Directors programs.

“Shondaland has long been known to defy industry standards through dynamic female characters, but we have also always felt it was important to have equal representation behind the camera. To have talent and sets that reflect the world we live in has always seemed natural,” said Rhimes. “We’re happy to partner with SeriesFest on this mentorship initiative to continue providing opportunities for women directors.”

“Grey’s Anatomy” star Ellen Pompeo — the highest paid actress on a primetime drama — has spoken about how Rhimes’ support and example helped inspire her own career trajectory, which includes negotiating a higher salary, producing, directing, and speaking out about inclusivity. “In Shonda finding her power and becoming more comfortable with her power, she has empowered me,” Pompeo said.