10/06/2026
The Industry Forum on Friday, Oct 23 challenges what the future of filmmaking could look like:
The Directorial Path — Making a film is one thing. Figuring out what comes next is another. Our guest directors come together to share what it means to build a life in filmmaking, from taking on a first feature to finding new ways to grow, create, and keep going. Featuring Aisling Chin-Yee (THE REST OF US), Aisha Evelyna (SEAHORSE), Luis De Filippis (SOMETHING YOU SAID LAST NIGHT), Nyla Innuksuk (IN THE HEART OF THE SOUTH) and Chandler Levack (ROOMMATES). Moderated by writer and media educator, Sara Swain.
Reclaiming the Frame — Carrie Fisher famously said, “Men don’t age better than women, they’re just allowed to age.” But who gets to be seen, who gets to work, and who gets to stay in the frame? Join Max Brady (Bodacious Film), Ella Cooper (Black Women Film), Dr. Susan Liddy (WIFT-International), and Andria Wilson Mirza (Producer & Media Advocacy Leader) for a candid conversation about representation, power, and patriarchy - and what we can do to change the system.
Making Work Work — What if the things we think of as exceptions became the new normal? From accessible production practices to more sustainable ways of working, small changes can make the screen industries more inclusive for disabled artists and caregivers. But changing how we work can still meet resistance. With Susie Burpee (Balancing Act), storyteller and facilitator, Ophira Calof (Disabled Producer’s Lab), Melanie Hoyes (Senior Director of Inclusion, British Film Institute) and Winnie Luk (Disability Screen Office). Moderated by educator and community advocate, Ana Pitol.
Learn more at WomensFilmFestival.com/sjiwff-forum-schedule
