STAGE 32 PARTNERSHIP LAUNCH STRIKES A CHORD WITH 230 ATTENDEES
The curtain has fallen on an extraordinary evening at the iconic SXSW Film Festival in Sydney, where Women In Film and Television Australia (WIFT), a tireless advocate for gender equality and diversity, and industry giant Stage 32, a world-leading social network and educational platform, announced their groundbreaking partnership at an exclusive launch event at Flow Studios in Camperdown on October 18.
The day started with WIFT Australia presenting a panel in collaboration with the Canadian Consulate at Canada House SXSW Sydney. Hosted by former CEO of WIFT Toronto Heather Webb, it featured Screen Australia Executive and producer of feature films and over 60 hours of television Kristen Hodges; Sydney-based public arts and screen producer Ebube Uba; and writer, actor and disability advocate Emily Dash; and explored comparisons between the Canadian and Australian industry landscapes.
The day concluded with a night of inspiration and connection, including unlimited food and drinks, to the cool vibe of soul singer Ruby Jackson who performed live on the night. attendees were swept up in the enchantment of the evening. They captured their dazzling moments on the red carpet and left with exclusive SXSW gifts as mementos of this exciting international collaboration. The evening was sponsored by Young Henry’s Brewery, Radioactive Pictures, and the Ritchie Yorke Project.
Other highlights included the announcement of the winner of the WIFT collaboration with Compton School pitching competition as Brisbane-based producer Agapetos Aia-Fa’aleava, along with a formal announcement of the Stage 32 partnership and a few words from Managing Director of Stage 32 Amanda Toney.
“WIFT Australia is at the forefront of inclusion and giving unparalleled opportunity for its members which completely aligns with the Stage 32 mission. It is our goal to lift up the global creative community and democratize opportunities for talented creatives in film and television around the world,” said Stage 32 Managing Director Amanda Toney.
Liz Tomkins, WIFT Australia Chair, celebrated this timely and powerful partnership, saying, "Together, we look forward to increasing our efforts and joint goals of gender equality and diversity in the Australian screen industry."
The celebration attracted over 230 storytellers and artists from around the world, making it one of the most talked-about networking events of the festival.
WIFT Australia finished up the SXSW Sydney festival with yet another successful panel on the 20th of October hosted by WIFT Australia board member Oakley Kwon, and featuring Kristen Hodges; Kirsty Stark (AACTA, Rose d’Or & Emmy award-winning television and feature film producer), and Rachael Rauch (Screen Well Job-Share Consultant and film and TV creative practitioner).
WIFT Australia membership provides year-round benefits and immediate access to events like these. Whether you're a current member or considering joining, WIFT Australia opens doors to creative connections locally and globally.
For more information about WIFT Australia and to become a member, visit www.wiftaustralia.org.au.