Roundup of ‘Connecting to the Film World’ Event

On 22 March,  we held ‘Connecting to the Film World’ at Ormeau Baths, which HaZimation kindly sponsored.

We aimed to inspire more women to consider careers in film, TV, and gaming. The event tackled various areas where women are underrepresented, such as production, post-production, colouring, visual effects, sound design, and accountancy.

After a heartwarming introduction by Anne McVicker, Director at WRDA,  Paula Crickard, co-founder of HaZimation, hosted a Panel Discussion examining each member's journey into the film industry and their roles. It was intriguing to hear how Paula’s belief in being able to do the job as a woman spurred her to join the industry. Similarly, the panel discussed getting over a lack of confidence and realising that you can work in the film industry.

Paula hosted a brilliant interactive session looking at all the various roles available in the industry by displaying a block of film credits to help the audience understand each role and the breadth of what is available, from ‘Best Boy Grip’ to production staff.

Anne McVickers and Helen Crickard were honoured to meet Lord Caine, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, who called into the event.

After a lunch break, the audience heard from NI Screen and the Production Guild of Great Britain, which shared practical advice on how to gain entry into the film industry by networking and using resources like ScreenSkills to find opportunities.

The day culminated in a second-panel discussion, expertly hosted by Paula, on the role of women in the film industry. Everyone was thrilled to hear from Louise Gallagher, who joined the panel fresh from wrapping Season 2 of Blue Lights.