How Can We Make Female Media Makers in Philly More Visible to the People Who Hire?

Please join PWIFT and the WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL for a lively conversation and brainstorming session to find ways to make it easier for production companies, independent producers, directors, and businesses to FIND and HIRE experienced above- and below-the-line talent from the deep pool of Philly’s female media makers. The following producers have voiced a desire to hire more women on their productions, and are excited to be a part of  helping make that a reality:

DAVID DUNN — Executive Producer/Director and Co-Founder of All-Ages Productions

David Dunn is one of the co-founders of All Ages Productions. As a director he has worked for clients such as: Sailor Jerry Rum, Lily Pulitzer, Hendrick’s Gin, Britta/Mavea, Health Republic, Dockers, DIAL for Men, TYR, Warby Parker, CHOP and many others. David’s personal works have shown in galleries and festivals nationally. He has completed two US tours of his work video work and over six tours of his performance work. He is also a co-founding member of the Copy Gallery, an alternative arts exhibition space, and the Small Change Experimental Film Screening Series in Philadelphia. David was also a member of the renowned art collective Space 1026 and has shown work with them in venues such as the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia, Bravinlee Gallery in NY, and LoBot Gallery in Oakland, California.

MAUREEN SCHULTZ — Owner/Executive Producer, Sweet Spots Productions

Maureen Schultz is an experienced content creator strategically positioned at the crossroads of traditional TV, digital content and social media. She skillfully guides shows and cross-media projects from initial concept to top honors and awards.

Whether producing a broadcast TV series, a YouTube channel or a social media campaign, Maureen engages audiences by merging compelling storytelling with new forms of video and technology.

Combining her multifaceted production experience with digital strategy skills, Maureen creates effective and entertaining content for Sesame Workshop, Disney, Discovery Health, Animal Planet, and other prestigious clients.

AARON SPENCE — Chief Business Development Officer for BoatHouse Pictures
Aaron currently serves as the Chief Business Development Officer for BoatHouse Pictures. In 2012, Andre Saballette, Mario Maiale, and Aaron began BoatHouse with $100 and a very big dream: toengage a community of storytellers in Philadelphia helping bring their visions to life. In his capacity as a cofounder & CBDO, Aaron seeks to forge partnerships with those interested in working with a unique creative film organization, building a strong local business community, supervising the logistical needs for clients, and leading the strategic planning for the company at large. He is a proud graduate of both West Catholic Preparatory High School and La Salle University. Aaron serves on the boards of several local community organizations including the West Catholic Alumni Association Board of Governors, The Overbrook Park Church of Christ, and The HER Project, where he serves as Chairman of the Board.

Our session will be moderated by DR. JACQUI SADASHIGE —               Sr. Lecturer, University of Pennsylvania Critical Writing Program

Jacqui Sadashige (Moderator) received her BA from Amherst College in English and Fine Arts, an MA in English from Indiana University, and her MA and PhD in Classical Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. Jacqui is currently a Senior Lecturer for the Critical Writing Program at the University of Pennsylvania where she teaches writing seminars that address race and popular culture, with an emphasis on film. Her scholarly interests focus on the ways in which popular culture reflects and refracts our views on race, gender, and species. In addition to teaching and writing about popular culture, Dr Sadashige is also a staff member of the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival, a local fitness professional, and an Elephant Ambassador for the Save Elephant Foundation in Thailand.

RSVP Tickets — Please click on this link to reserve a seat for this FREE panel discussion