Emerging Filmmakers Meet Industry Professionals

 

Actress and entrepreneur Tonya Lee Williams, best known for her 23-year role on The Young and The Restless, founded ReelWorld in 2001 to create an avenue to showcase diverse stories on screen, and provide opportunities for emerging talent from diverse communities. In September 2012, twenty emerging filmmakers (E20’s) and twenty one industry professionals were brought together for a mentorship opportunity at the 11th Annual ReelWorld Indie Film Lounge (IFL). The two-day event featured a networking cocktail, one-on-one mentorship sessions, and an afternoon of industry panels.

Held at the Empire Lounge, the program offered an excellent opportunity for emerging filmmakers to build relationships with industry professionals who have the knowledge, proficiency and the skill to help them advance their careers.

“It’s an exciting time for them and for all of us who celebrate diversity in film,” said Actress Tonya Lee Williams. The E20 Class of 2012 includes emerging filmmakers from Aboriginal, Asian, Black, Latino, Middle Eastern, South Asian or other racially diverse backgrounds. The ReelWorld Indie Film Lounge was presented by ReelWorld Foundation, with the support of Telefilm Canada, Kodak Canada and generous sponsors.

“It was incredible to have the opportunity to be in a room with that level of talent, and to get the responses that I needed as an upcoming filmmaker,” said Ty Greenidge, a 2012 E20’s who has been working in the industry for the past few years.