Abu Dhabi Film Commission attracts successful local female panellists to discuss ‘women in film’

Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) will host a panel session, “Women in Film”, that will highlight the challenges and opportunities for Arabic women in the film industry during the upcoming Circle Conference on October 14th.

The panel will include Dr. Hala Sarhan, President of Rotana Studios, Vicky Jewson a director/producer and Charity Head for the Vicky Jewson Film Foundation, Cynthia Schneider a cultural diplomat and film producer, Palestinian filmmaker Mai Masri and 2009 Shasha Grant Winner Saudi Director Haifaa Al Masour.

These accomplished women will debate what is needed to bring more women to the forefront of the film industry. With an array of accomplishments and initiatives between them that are focused on the Arabic world, the “Women in Film” panel will ensure colourful and enlightening conversations. The panel will present the speakers’ many success stories and is intended to inspire more women to enter the film industry.

There are a number of examples of local women currently working in the film industry such as Kuwaiti Producer Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah, Emirati female film producers Nayla Al Khaja and the young and new talent Hanan Al Muhairi who have contributed their skills and expertise on various films and projects in the Arabic entertainment world. Each has attracted media attention as they are rare assets in the industry and have proven their expertise through the production of several successful projects. ADFC is positive that discussions during The Circle Conference will highlight that there are opportunities for many more women in film.

Haifaa Al Mansour, Saudi Director and winner of Shasha Grant 2009 said: “It is an exciting time now for us, because the world wants to hear more from Arab women. In creating their films young women here should be true to their lives and focus on narratives close to their experience.”

And about her participation in the panel, Al Mansour said:
“It is exciting to be in a place like Abu Dhabi where people are investing in building up the industry, and focusing on nurturing up-and-coming talent. With these kind of resources, and if women seek out experienced and innovative partners, there is no reason they can’t be making quality films that compete at the international level. The world is there to listen; we just have to be smart and creative about what we are saying.”

ADFC Director David Shepheard, said “ADFC is pleased that so many prominent women in the film industry will be attending and speaking. We hope to build a film industry that is balanced and understand the importance of enabling local women to take advantage of the endless opportunities in film such as producing, directing, acting, filmmaking and writing. The “Women in Film” panel is an integral part of The Circle Conference and an important topic that many attendees are eager to discuss.”