Dr. Susan Liddy Re-Elected President of Women in Film & Television International for Second Term

Dr. Susan Liddy Re-Elected President of Women in Film & Television International for Second Term

We’re delighted to share that WIFTI President and WFT Ireland Chair Dr. Susan Liddy has been re-elected as WIFTI President for a second term. Please see the official press release below – 

Dr. Susan Liddy at the 2026 WIFTI Summit in Adare, Ireland. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick

Dr. Susan Liddy Re-Elected President of Women in Film & Television International for Second Term

The unanimous re-election of Dr. Susan Liddy as President of Women in Film & Television International (WIFTI) for a further three-year term, commencing in September 2026, was officially announced at the Irish Pavilion during the recent Cannes Film Festival.

Dr. Liddy, who also serves as Chair of Women in Film & Television Ireland (WFT Ireland), has led the global organisation since 2023, overseeing a period of significant growth, international collaboration and expanded global reach across the screen industries.  Her re-election marks a significant achievement for Ireland, reflecting the growing international influence of the Irish screen sector and Ireland’s leadership in advancing gender equality within the creative industries.

Representing a worldwide network spanning six continents and more than 80 chapters and affiliates across 6 continents.  WIFTI works to advance gender equality and support women working across film, television and the wider media sector.  During Dr. Liddy’s first term, the organisation welcomed a number of new chapters and affiliates, including groups from Europe, Africa and India, further strengthening WIFTI’s international network and commitment to inclusion and representation.

One of the major highlights of Dr. Liddy’s presidency was the hugely successful Women in Film & Television International Summit, hosted in Adare, Co. Limerick in February 2026.  The landmark gathering brought together industry leaders, creatives and advocates from around the world for several days of discussion, networking and collaboration focused on equity, sustainability and the future of the global screen industries.  The Summit further cemented Ireland’s reputation as a global hub for creative leadership and international collaboration.  

Speaking at the Irish Pavilion at Cannes Film Festival, Dr. Susan Liddy said:

“I’m thrilled to continue in my role as President of WIFTI.  We have ambitious plans to bring our chapters and affiliates closer together and to continue building meaningful international connections.  In times like these especially, we are stronger together, and I believe passionately in the power of this global network to create lasting change for women working across the screen industries.”

Domizia De Rosa, Vice President of WIFTI, paid tribute to Dr. Liddy’s leadership, saying:

“I am delighted and grateful to Dr Liddy for agreeing to serve a second term as President.  Her energy and determination will enable us to build on the excellent results of the recent WIFTI Summit, which I had the opportunity to attend in person and where I was able to witness first-hand the passion and professionalism of the Irish chapter, which Dr Liddy has been leading for over seven years”.

Kissy Dugan, Treasurer of WIFTI, praised the re-election, saying: 

“Susan’s leadership over the past three years has been transformative for WIFTI.  Her vision, diplomacy and unwavering commitment to gender equality have helped expand our global reach and deepen connections between chapters around the world.  We are delighted she will continue to lead the organisation into this next exciting phase.”

Dr. Liddy is a renowned academic, researcher and advocate for gender equality in the creative industries and has long been a leading voice in championing women’s representation, visibility and leadership within the screen sector, both in Ireland and internationally.

Under her continued presidency, WIFTI plans to further expand its international partnerships, strengthen collaboration between chapters and continue advocating for greater equality, opportunity and inclusion across the global screen industries.

About WIFTI

Women in Film & Television International (WIFTI) is a global network dedicated to advancing gender equality and professional development for women working across film, television and the screen industries.  Established over 50 years ago, WIFTI now spans more than 80 chapters and affiliates across six continents, supporting international collaboration, advocacy, mentorship and leadership opportunities for women at all stages of their careers.

For press inquires, please contact info@wft.ie

Announcing: WIFTI Cannes Coffee Social 2026

Announcing: WIFTI Cannes Coffee Social 2026

Attending the 2026 Cannes International Film Festival? Join us for WIFTI’s Coffee Social on Friday, May 15, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM CEST!

Enjoy coffee, croissants, and great conversation with WIFTI members from chapters around the world.

🎟 Register by May 12 — ticket sales close at 1:00 PM CEST.

Your ticket includes access to the event and breakfast treats such as a coffee, selection of cold drinks, pastries and/or yoghurt with fruits.

Venue details will be provided in your ticket confirmation.

See you in Cannes! 🎬

RSVP & PAY HERE

WIFTI Membership Renewals Now Open

WIFTI Membership Renewals Now Open

We are happy to announce that the Google Form for membership renewal is now live. 

2026 WIFTI Membership Google Form

Renewing your membership ensures your chapter remains part of a global network working to support and advance women across the screen industries. Membership provides access to international collaboration opportunities, professional development resources, and participation in WIFTI programmes, as well as increased visibility and connection within the global community.

How to renew / join 

  • Chapter Presidents (or equivalent Executive Leader) must complete the membership form (sent via email as well)
  • Submit updated chapter information
  • Receive a PayPal payment link from WIFTI
  • Pay the applicable membership fee

Membership is valid for one full calendar year.

To note, there has been an unavoidable system delay in collection which has now been remedied. To ensure our records are fully up to date, the form requests details covering the period from 2024 to 2026. We will invoice you as per the information provided in the form.

Action required:

We kindly ask that all Chapter and Partner Organisation Leaders (or equivalent Executive Leaders) complete the form by May 8th, 2026.

Your membership fees directly support WIFTI’s global advocacy, programmes, events, and resources that benefit all chapters.

Please refer to our membership page for further information. 

If you are a Chapter or Affiliate head and have any questions, please get in touch membership@wifti.net.

Thank you for your continued engagement and support.

Exclusive Opportunity for WIFTI Members: Inside HEATED RIVALRY with Creator & Showrunner Jacob Tierney

Exclusive Opportunity for WIFTI Members: Inside HEATED RIVALRY with Creator & Showrunner Jacob Tierney

One of the things I’m most proud of at Stage 32 is that we’ve built something that didn’t really exist before – a place where no matter where you live, you can learn directly from the people who are actually working in this industry right now.

We now have over 1.3 million members across 185+ countries, and what continues to set Stage 32 apart is the access. Every month, we’re bringing in showrunners, producers, executives, and creatives behind some of the biggest projects in film and television – not to speak in theory, but to share how things are really getting made, sold, and distributed today.

And this month we get to do something even more special.

On Tuesday, March 24th at 3pm PT, we’re hosting an exclusive live Q&A with HEATED RIVALRY showrunner Jacob Tierney, moderated by TV executive Anna Henry – and this is exactly the kind of opportunity that only happens inside the Stage 32 community.

Jacob is one of those creators who really understands how to build stories that connect. With HEATED RIVALRY, which he created, writes, directs, and executive produces, he’s continuing to prove how powerful character-driven storytelling can cut through in today’s market. He recently executive produced WAR PONY, which won the Caméra d’Or at Cannes, and he’s behind THE TRAITORS CANADA

What I love about sessions like this is that they’re not surface-level. Jacob is going to talk honestly about his path to becoming a showrunner, how he develops and adapts material, and what it actually takes to create a series that buyers respond to. And with Anna guiding the conversation from an executive point of view, you’re also going to hear what the market is looking for right now – which is information that’s incredibly hard to get access to.

And importantly, this is interactive. You’ll be able to ask your own questions and get real answers you can take back to your own work.

You can register for the live Q&A here.

This is a live Q&A only and you must attend live. 

Bonus: Breaking Down the HEATED RIVALRY Pilot

We’re also doing a free webinar where we break down the HEATED RIVALRY pilot episode, so you can really dig into how the story is structured and why it works.

Register for the pilot breakdown here.

At the end of the day, this is what we’re focused on at Stage 32 – giving you access to real conversations, with real people, about how this industry actually works.

And I truly believe that when you can get in the room (even virtually) with the people doing the work at a high level, it changes how you approach your own career.

I hope you’ll join us for this one.

Amanda Toney
Managing Director, Stage 32

Thank You for Making the 2026 WIFTI Summit a Resounding Success

Thank You for Making the 2026 WIFTI Summit a Resounding Success

Photo credit: From left to right Deirdre Ní Choistín, Director General, TG4; Désirée Finnegan, Chief Executive, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland; Ruth Negga, BAFTA, Emmy, and Oscar-Nominated Actor (Passing, Presumed Innocent); Dr. Susan Liddy, President of WIFTI & Chair of WFT Ireland; Elizabeth Farrelly, Assistant Director, Media Development, Coimisiún na Meán (Irish Media Commission). (Photo by Brian Arthur)

The 2026 WIFTI Summit in Adare, Ireland brought together an extraordinary international community of creatives, industry leaders, advocates, policymakers and allies, united by a shared commitment to gender equality, collaboration and meaningful change across the screen industries. Over four inspiring days, the Summit fostered an open, honest and supportive space where participants felt encouraged to speak candidly, listen generously and connect across borders. The atmosphere was one of momentum and possibility – marked by thoughtful dialogue, ambitious ideas and new relationships that will continue to shape the work ahead.

Key Themes & Takeaways 

Across conversations, panels and informal exchanges, several themes emerged, identifying not only where the screen industries are now, but where they need to go next.

Gender Equality must move from intention to action with greater urgency. 

Progress has been made, but speakers consistently emphasised the need for focused implementation, more equitable budgets, inclusive hiring, long-term career support and clear accountability structures that embed gender equity into all aspects of the screen industries.

Collaboration strengthens global, national and local ecosystems

The Summit underscored the vital role of public funding, strong regional networks and international collaboration. Long-term sustainability depends on investing in local talent and infrastructure, while actively participating in global creative, cultural and production networks.

Technology is reshaping creativity

Advances in VFX, virtual production and digital platforms are transforming how stories are made, raising urgent questions around ethics, regulation, safety and creative control alongside innovation.

Voice, language and lived experience shape authentic storytelling 

The Summit reinforced the importance of representation on and off screen, including  minority and Indigenous languages. Access, identity and authorship were seen as central to reaching audiences with integrity. 

Visibility is key to long-term sustainability

From development to distribution, speakers returned to a shared truth: creators need ongoing support to sustain careers, rather than individual projects. Being seen  by audiences, funders and peers is essential.

Place matters

The Summit closed with a Creative Excursion hosted by Film in Limerick, offering delegates a guided tour of key regional locations including Troy Studios. This final session reinforced the importance of place, infrastructure and regional investment in supporting production, collaboration and future growth within Ireland’s screen industries.

Summit Programme & Speakers 

We are deeply grateful to all our speakers who so generously shared their time, expertise, and perspectives throughout the Summit. Across two days of conversation, debate, and exchange, our panellists brought insight, honesty and lived experience to the forefront, challenging assumptions, sharing hard-won knowledge, and offering practical pathways for change.

Thursday 5 February 

From left to right Deirdre Ní Choistín, Director General, TG4; Désirée Finnegan, Chief Executive, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland; Ruth Negga, BAFTA, Emmy, and Oscar-Nominated Actor (Passing, Presumed Innocent); Dr. Susan Liddy, President of WIFTI & Chair of WFT Ireland; Elizabeth Farrelly, Assistant Director, Media Development, Coimisiún na Meán (Irish Media Commission). (Photo by Brian Arthur)

Summit Launch

Welcome: Dr Susan Liddy – President Women in Film and Television International & Chair WFT Ireland

Deirdre Ní Choistín – Director General, TG4

Désirée Finnegan – Chief Executive, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland

Ruth Negga – BAFTA, Emmy, and Oscar-Nominated Actor (Passing, Presumed Innocent)

Elizabeth Farrelly – Assistant Director, Media Development, Coimisiún na Meán


Voices of Change: Pioneering Equity in the Screen Industries

Moderator: Dr. Susan Liddy – President, WIFTI; Chair, WFT Ireland

Anna Serner – CEO, Center for Investigative Journalism and Former CEO, Swedish Film Institute

Iris Zappe-Heller – Deputy Director, Austrian Film Institute

Lisa French – Professor, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia

Liselott Forsman – CEO, Nordisk Film & TV Fond and Producer

Niamh Fagan – Project Manager Feature Film, Fís Éireann / Screen Ireland

Valerie Creighton – President & CEO, C.M., S.O.M., Canada Media Fund

Beyond Borders: How Irish Co-Productions Are Shaping Global Storytelling

Moderator: Lesley McKimm – Producer (Whistleblower, It’s Not Yet Dark, Greta)

Aisha Tyler – Actor, Producer, Director (The Walking Dead, Criminal Minds, I Hope We Can Still Be Friends), CEO Hot Machine Films

Máire Ní Chonláin – Commissioning Editor, TG4; Executive Producer (An Cailín Ciúin / The Quiet Girl, CRÁ, Frewaka)

Sinead McHugh – Partner, Film, TV & Media, Head of Dublin Office, Saffery

Teresa McGrane – COO, Wild Atlantic Pictures (Kneecap, Saipan)

Behind the Pixels: Women Leading VFX & Virtual Production

Moderator: Deborah Doherty – Elephant Goldfish VFX & Post-Production; Managing Director & Executive Producer; WFT Ireland Board Member

Clare Cheetham – Emmy Award-Winning Executive VFX Producer, Crafty Apes (The Martian, Chernobyl)

Eranka Weerasuryia – Head of Virtual Production, Studio Ulster (Avatar: The Last Airbender, Squid Game) 

May Leung – Independent VFX Supervisor (The Witcher: Blood Origins, Fountain of Youth)

 

Fireside Chat with Ruth Negga

An intimate fireside conversation with BAFTA, Emmy, and Oscar-nominated actor Ruth Negga reflecting on her extraordinary career to date and offering a glimpse into her future creative plans.Moderator:

Aoife Barry – Freelance Writer, Broadcaster & Arts Journalist

Cultural Event in Adare Village

Alongside the panel programme, delegates gathered for a memorable cultural evening in Adare Village, creating space for connection in a uniquely Irish setting. The night began at Bill Chawkes Bar with an Irish Coffee experience presented by the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, before continuing with traditional music at Aunty Lena’s Pub. We extend our warm thanks to all who hosted and welcomed our delegates for such a special evening.

 

Friday 6 February


Threats and Shifts: Navigating the New Frontlines of Equality in the Screen Industries

Moderator: Katie Bailiff – CEO, Women in Film and Television UK

Almudena Carracedo (via Zoom) – Filmmaker & Asociación de Mujeres Cineastas y de Medios Audiovisuales (CIMA) Board Member

Professor Debbie Ging – Professor of Digital Media and Gender, Dublin City University

Domizia De Rosa – President, WIFTM Italia; Vice President, WIFTI

Dame Heather Rabbatts – Chair, Time’s Up UK


Voices of the Unheard: Storytelling and Identity in Minority Language

Moderator: Gemma Ní Chionnaith – TV Broadcaster, TG4

Anne Lajla Utsi (zoom) – Managing Director, International Sámi Film Institute

Deirbhile Ní Churraighin – Commissioning Editor, TG4

Gwenllian Gravelle – Head of Film & Drama, S4C

Kerry Swanson – CEO, Canadian Indigenous Screen Office


From Market to Audience: Getting Your Project Seen

Moderator: Kissy Dugan – Screenwriter & Producer; WIFTI Executive Board Member

Gretchen McGowan – Emmy Award-Winning Producer & Goldcrest Films (Back to Black, Carol), NYWIFT Board Member

Jenn Brown – Executive Director, St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival

Kelly Leugenbiehl – Co-Founder, Shorties Studios (Ex Netflix, Disney, NBCU)

 


Driving Real Change in the Screen Industries

Moderator: Gretchen McGowan – Emmy Award-Winning Producer & Goldcrest Films (Back to Black, Carol), NYWIFT Board Member

Ailish Bracken – Chair, Raising Films Ireland

Liza Truschel – Managing Director, The Writers Lab UK

Max Brady – Chair, GEDI Committee, Screen Producers Ireland

Mia Bays – Director, BFI Filmmaking Fund


Seen and Unseen: Women’s Creative Journeys On and Off Screen

Moderator: Maikiko James – Deputy Director, WIF LA

Aisha Tyler – Actor, Producer, Director (The Walking Dead, Criminal Minds, I Hope We Can Still Be Friends), CEO Hot Machine Films

Dearbhla Walsh – Emmy, BAFTA and IFTA Award-Winning Director (Little Dorrit, The Handmaid’s Tale, Fargo, Bad Sisters, Margo’s Got Money Troubles)

Guneet Monga Kapoor – Oscar-Winning Producer Producer (The Lunchbox, The Elephant Whisperers)

Ruth Negga – BAFTA, Emmy and Oscar-Nominated Actor (Passing, Presumed Innocent)

Úna Ní Dhonghaíle ACE, BFE – BAFTA and IFTA-Winning Editor (The Crown, Belfast, Paddington in Peru)

 

Our Sponsors 

The 2026 WIFTI Summit was made possible through the generous support of our partners. We extend our sincere thanks to: 

Fís Éireann / Screen Ireland
Coimisiún na Meán
TG4
Saffery
National Talent Academies
Local Enterprise Office Limerick
Screen Producers Ireland
Film in Limerick
Fáilte Ireland
Wild Atlantic Pictures
Canada Media Fund
Elephant Goldfish / Molinare Creative Group
Women in Film and Television UK
Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau
Creative Europe Desk Ireland
Media Insurance Brokers (part of Howden)
Raising Films Ireland

Event & Delivery Partners 

We extend our sincere thanks to all those who supported the delivery of the 2026 WIFTI Summit. In particular, we wish to acknowledge Sync & Swim Creative Marketing & Strategic Communications, whose guidance and hands-on support were instrumental to the Summit’s success. We are also grateful to Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel & Spa for being an exceptional host venue, providing care, flexibility and attention to detail throughout the planning and delivery of the event. Our thanks to Archetype Events, Gore Communications, Lean on Lee, AVC Ltd and I Love Limerick for their contributions across event coordination, technical delivery, PR and media coverage. We extend special thanks to the Board and staff of WFT Ireland, specifically Meaghan Lee- Erlandsen, and to the Board of WIFTI, whose support underpinned the success of the Summit. Finally, we are thankful to Emma Langford and her musicians, and to Louise Bruton, for bringing warmth, energy and celebration to the Summit’s social moments.

 

What’s Next 

The conversations sparked at the 2026 WIFTI Summit are only the beginning.

In the months ahead, Women in Film and Television International and Women in Film & Television Ireland will continue to build on the ideas, connections and shared energy that emerged in Adare – through future events, new programmes, advocacy and ongoing international collaboration.

This Summit marks an inspiring and powerful launching point. We are committed to building on this momentum together.

 

Photo Gallery

Browse our collection of photos below. More images will be added and shared soon.

 

 

Exciting Stage 32 Education Opportunities for WIFTI Members: Dive into Vertical Storytelling

Exciting Stage 32 Education Opportunities for WIFTI Members: Dive into Vertical Storytelling

Hello Women in Film & Television International Members,

As we continue to build on our exciting new global collaboration between Stage 32 and WIFTI, I’m thrilled to highlight some of the fresh, topical education available through Stage 32 that you can access at exclusive member discounts. One of the hottest topics right now in the entertainment industry is vertical storytelling – the fast-paced, mobile-first format that’s exploding into a legitimate marketplace for building IP, engaging audiences, and advancing careers.

What started as an emerging format has quickly become a real opportunity for writers, filmmakers, and producers to create compelling content tailored for vertical viewing on phones. These micro-dramas and short-form vertical series are driving massive engagement, especially in genres like drama, romance, and thrillers, and they’re opening new doors for diverse creators.

Stage 32 has been at the forefront with recent webinars led by top industry experts who are actively shaping this space. Here are a few standout sessions that are perfect for WIFTI members looking to explore this trend:

Understanding Vertical Storytelling “Verticals” 101

Taught by Ammon Lyle, Senior Vice President of Production & Partnerships at Mansa, where he leads the Vertical Originals Division. Ammon brings an impressive background from major players like The Walt Disney Company, Amazon Prime Video, Audible, and previously ReelShort, where he specialized in high-engagement vertical micro-dramas. He’s managed multi-million-dollar deals, driven content acquisition, and overseen production across TV, film, and digital platforms—making him one of the most knowledgeable voices on why verticals are booming and how to succeed in this format.

In this on-demand webinar, you’ll get a comprehensive introduction to vertical storytelling: what defines a “vertical,” how it differs from traditional media, who’s watching and engaging, and the creative and production essentials for launching your own series. You’ll walk away with a clear roadmap for creating, producing, and launching vertical content, plus a sample episode script to kickstart your ideas.

Learn more and enroll here

How to Write Vertical Micro Drama Scripts

Also taught by Ammon Lyle, this session dives deeper into the craft side. You’ll explore why vertical micro-dramas are gaining massive traction, how to structure addictive short-form scripts that hook viewers instantly, and techniques for pacing, emotional beats, and binge-worthy storytelling optimized for mobile screens. By the end, you’ll know how to write, structure, and pitch your own micro-dramas, complete with a 1-page Micro Drama Script Starter template for a 2-minute episode.

Learn more and enroll here

Verticals: How to Package and Protect Your IP

Led by Jackie Ward, Senior Associate at Ramo Law, a star in entertainment law with expertise in structuring deals for independent film, TV, podcasts, and emerging digital platforms such as verticals. Jackie has a solutions-first approach, blending creative vision with precise legal frameworks. Before joining Ramo, she handled production, financing, and distribution counsel across various media. She’s also proud to represent Breaking Through the Lens, a non-profit supporting marginalized filmmakers through grants, mentorship, and industry connections.

This webinar gives an insider’s view on the business realities of vertical projects: how to package and position your IP, navigate deals and partnerships, protect your rights, and understand the platform landscape. It includes a downloadable Vertical Packaging & Platform Landscape Map and insights from dealmakers negotiating these agreements daily – essential for turning your creative work into viable, protected opportunities.

Learn more and enroll here

These webinars showcase why vertical storytelling is more than a trend—it’s a powerful way to combine strong, emotional narratives with real industry momentum in a mobile-driven world. Whether you’re a screenwriter crafting hooks that keep viewers swiping, a producer packaging projects, or simply curious about new pathways, these sessions provide practical, immediately applicable tools from professionals deeply embedded in the space.

As a WIFTI member, you can take advantage of your exclusive discounts. Please check your inboxes or contact your chapter heads to access these codes. 

If you’re experimenting with vertical formats or considering your next project in this space, we’d love to hear from you! Feel free to email me at edu@stage32.com with questions, ideas, or to share your experiences.

We’re committed to bringing you education that keeps you ahead of the curve and helps turn your vision into opportunity. Let’s keep supporting women and gender-diverse creators worldwide to thrive!

Cheers,

Amanda Toney

Managing Director, Stage 32