WFT Ireland is back with an episode from a series of in-depth conversations with international changemakers. In this oral history collection, we speak with a range of women who have shaped WIFTI and the media landscape over the last few decades. 

WFT Ireland Chair and WIFT International President, Dr. Susan Liddy, is in conversation with Kate Kinninmont MBE– former CEO of WFTV UK, and member of the WIFTI Advisory Board. 

Kate’s career as a producer and director with the BBC was followed by over a decade at the helm of WFTV UK. In this podcast episode, she reflects on her long and varied career as an industry practitioner and a respected advocate for gender equality. She talks us through her tenure as CEO of WFTUK and the changes she orchestrated and witnessed over a decade. 

Special thanks to our international colleagues at WIFTI for their unwavering support. 

This podcast has been made possible with the support of Coimisiún na Meán. 

To learn more about the work being done at WFT Ireland and to become a member, visit WFT.ie. 

About Kate Kinninmont

Kate is an award-winning producer and director who is passionate about developing female-led film and TV projects. She is an Honorary Associate of the London Film School, a Visiting Professor at the University of Hertfordshire and was awarded a Doctorate in Creative Arts (honoris causa) by the University of Bournemouth. She has a BA (Hons) from the University of Strathclyde and an MA from the University of Glasgow and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Kate was CEO of WFTV(UK) for 11 years and was awarded an MBE for her campaigning work for women in the film and TV industries. She is a member of BAFTA, Directors UK and co-chair of the Advisory Committee of Women in Film & Television International. Since January 2019, she has been MD of The f Word Media Company.

About Susan Liddy

Dr. Susan Liddy is a lecturer and Assistant Professor in the Department of Media and Communication Studies in MIC, University of Limerick. She is also the EDII Faculty of Arts Lead (equality, diversity, inclusion and interculturalism) in MIC. Her research interests relate primarily to gender and diversity issues in the Irish screen industries; motherhood and caring; the representation of women in non-traditional industry roles; ‘harmful behaviours’ in the screen industries workplace; and the representation of older women on screen and behind the camera. She is editor of a number of national and international collections: Women in the Irish Film Industry: Stories and Storytellers (Cork University Press 2020): Women in the International Film Industry: Policy, Practice and Power (Palgrave Macmillan 2020); Women, Ageing and the Screen Industries: Falling off a cliff? (Palgrave Macmillan, 2023); co-editor of Media Work, Mothers and Motherhood: Negotiating the International Audio-Visual Industry (Routledge 2021). Susan has published in a range of academic journals and has also written popular pieces for newspapers etc. She has co-authored two industry reports Auditing gender and diversity change in Irish media sectors for the BAI (2021) and The Pursuit of Change: Issues Affecting Parents and Carers in Ireland’s Screen Industries (Raising Films Ireland 2022). She is currently co-authoring a report with Dr Fergal Rhatigan on harmful behaviours and workplace culture in the Irish screen industries for Women in Film and Television Ireland, funded by Screen Ireland’s Stakeholder Funding Scheme. Susan is the Chair of Women in Film and Television Ireland; President of Women in Film and Television International; Chair of the Equality Action Committee of the Writers Guild of Ireland; a board member of Raising Films Ireland and the Irish Film Institute. She is the Director of Catalyst International Film Festival, Limerick – a festival that prioritises films and filmmakers from underrepresented groups.

Women in Film & Television International (WIFTI) is excited to announce that the membership renewal and registration period for 2024-2025 is officially open! This is your chapter’s opportunity to renew or join as a member for the upcoming year, ensuring continued support, connection, and advocacy within our international network. As a member, you are part of a global movement for sustainable change in the screen-based industries. 

Why Join or Renew Your Chapter Membership?

Being part of WIFTI means your chapter is connected to a vibrant, global community dedicated to empowering women across the screen industries. Here are some of the key benefits your chapter will enjoy by joining WIFTI:

• Global Networking Opportunities: Engage with WIFT chapters worldwide, share insights, and collaborate on cross-chapter projects and initiatives.
• Access to Resources: Gain access to exclusive resources, tools, and workshops to support your members’ growth and professional development.
• Participation in WIFTI Programs: Take part in WIFTI’s global programs, including mentorships, industry panels, and advocacy initiatives that uplift women in media.
• Visibility and Support: Boost your chapter’s visibility through WIFTI’s communication channels and strengthen a global support network.

How to Renew or Register Your Chapter’s Membership

To renew your chapter’s membership or join as a new member:

• Check your inbox for an email from us, with the link to our membership form.
  • Email us with the subject heading “WIFTI MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FORM” at smrithika@wft.ie if you haven’t received this email. 
• Fill in the form with updated information about your chapter.
• Wait for a PayPal payment link from WIFTI. 
• Pay your membership fee. 
• Enjoy your membership for a full calendar year! 

The membership fees will be as follows: 

As a WIFTI chapter, your membership fee directly supports our shared mission to uplift women in the film and television industries worldwide. This tier-based fee structure allows chapters of all sizes to access the full range of WIFTI resources and benefits, which include global networking opportunities, professional development programs, and powerful advocacy initiatives. By contributing your membership fee, your chapter helps us continue this important work — funding essential programs, events, and resources that empower our members to thrive in the industry. 

WIFTI Chapters 

€50 EUR for chapters with less than 50 members 

€100 EUR for chapters with 50 – 100 members 

€200 EUR for chapters with more than 100 members 

€300 EUR for chapters with more than 200 members 

€400 EUR for chapters with more than 300 members 

€500 EUR for all chapters with more than 400 members

WIFTI Partner Members

For WIFT-like networks all over the world with whom we share our goals, fees will be: 

€50 EUR annually for the first two years. 

After two years, our WIFTI Partner Members will pay membership fees the same as for WIFTI chapters, as listed above.

For more information, if you have any questions or are interested in creating a new WIFTI chapter, please contact us at smrithika@wft.ie. 

To learn more about WIFTI membership, click here.

Additional details about membership rates are available here. 

WIFTI Members: Join us for the Virtual Digital Summit – Write. Produce. Connect. on Thursday 31 October – REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Get ready for an exciting opportunity! The debut global virtual summit, write.produce.connect. is taking place on Thursday 31 October. This landmark event is dedicated to celebrating and connecting women and non-binary screen creators over 40, and it promises to be an inspiring and transformative experience.

Hosted by The Writers Lab and supported by WFT Ireland, Screen Ireland and WFTV UK, amongst other sponsors, this summit is more than just an event—it’s a movement. We’re bringing together industry leaders and trailblazers to provide invaluable insights, script-development intensives, and market incubation that will help you hone your craft, expand your community, and elevate your career.

What’s in Store:

• Engaging Panels: Hear from acclaimed writers like Karen Cogan (Bad Sisters, The Young Offenders) and screenwriters such as Olivia Hetreed (Girl with a Pearl Earring) as they share their journeys and insights.
• Noteworthy Producers: Learn from the best, including Ameenah Ayub Allen (Ali & Ava), Chelsea Morgan Hoffman of Element Pictures (Normal People, The Listeners, September Says), Claudia Bluemhuber, CEO of Silver Reel, about what it takes to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.
• Fireside Chats: Join us for a candid conversation with Charlie Covell (Kaos, The End of the F***ing World), moderated by Susan Soon He Stanton (HBO’s Succession).
• Masterclasses: Participate in exclusive sessions led by industry experts, including a masterclass with Kirsten Sheridan, hosted by WIFTI President / WFT Ireland Chair Dr. Susan Liddy, amongst many others.

This summit isn’t just about learning; it’s about building a powerful network of creators across the globe. Engage in key panels, skills-development sessions, and masterclasses designed specifically for women in film and television.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, October 31
• Time: 10:20 am – 5:45 pm CET
• Location: Online via Zoom
• Ticket price: £20

WIFTI members can register their spot for the virtual summit here. 

We hope you can join us in this celebration and advocacy for much-needed changes in our industry. Let’s connect, create, and inspire one another!

St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival (SJIWFF) is Canada’s longest-running women’s film festival and one of the longest-running globally. Established with a bold vision of advancing gender equity in the screen industries, SJIWFF has championed the creative work of women and gender-diverse artists worldwide since 1989. A respected leader in the sector with growing accolades, SJIWFF plays a vital role in the Canadian film circuit and brings critical artist development and creative vitality to Newfoundland and Labrador.

While the St. John’s International Women’s Film Film Festival celebrates its 35th anniversary, its Film Industry Forum expands yet again to be among the most impressive gatherings in the country. This year’s theme is celebration: celebrating the incredible achievements and resilience of filmmakers who paved the way while looking forward to more opportunities, inclusivity and, most importantly, art. From October 22-26, the 35th edition of the Festival will feature 29 short films and 9 features from 9 countries worldwide, spoken in 11 languages, ensuring a rich and inclusive cultural experience for all: 82% Canadian + 21% Local + 50% + BIPOC.

SJIWFF’s Film Industry Forum has earned its reputation as a must-attend event in the industry. It offers a barrier-free environment to build authentic connections with leading decision-makers and creatives. “The Film Industry Forum is a testament to the evolution of Newfoundland and Labrador’s film industry, showcasing a remarkable lineup of talent while honoring the trailblazers who have shaped our legacy,” said Jenn Brown, Executive Director of SJIWFF. “We have thoughtfully curated spaces to discuss equity, foster meaningful relationships, and inspire innovation. We take pride in highlighting the unique stories emerging from our region and beyond, emphasizing the vital role SJIWFF plays in empowering filmmakers at every stage of their careers. The Forum not only celebrates our past but also paves the way for a brighter future for filmmakers and storytellers.” 

Dr Susan Liddy, WIFTI President, is enthusiastic about St John’s International Women’s Film Festival and the Global Summit on Equity in Film which will be part of the festival in 2024. “I’m really looking forward to attending the festival and speaking at the Summit. This special festival has been on my radar for the last couple of years and I’m delighted to finally get the opportunity to come and see what it’s all about. If it’s feasible, I’d encourage WIFTI members to attend. I’ll be looking out for you!”

Offering an unparalleled lineup of talent and opportunities you won’t want to miss, from October 22 to 26 it kicks off the week with the Trailblazer Awards, honouring five iconic local producers who paved the way for filmmakers in the province: Annette Clarke, Barbara Doran, Rosemary House, Mary Sexton, and Allison White. SJIWFF wraps the week by welcoming back Christine Vachon of Killer Films (Past Lives, Far From Heaven, Boy’s Don’t Cry) alongside Tanya Lapointe (Dune, The Paperman) for a producer-to-producer conversation. 

Our Opening & Closing Night directors Melanie Oates (Sweet Angel Baby) and Sook-Yin Lee (Paying For It) join us with their teams for Q&A sessions and a brunch panel. Julie Roy (Telefilm), Liz Shorten (CMPA), and Valerie Creighton (CMF) will discuss the ever-evolving landscape of Canada’s film and television sector. Other panels and workshops explore demystifying executive pitches, knowing when you need an agent, the craft of documentary filmmaking, what it takes to create multiple successful feature films, and a further look into the world of directing for TV.

Friday will host a Global Summit on Equity in Film and include national changemakers as well as international perspectives from Dr. Susan Liddy (WIFTI, WIFT-Ireland), Alexia Muinos Ruiz (European Women’s Audiovisual Network), Barbara Rohm (Power to Transform!) and Natasha Gargiulo (Geena Davis Institute). 

Filmmakers will be able to meet and consult with the industry’s biggest broadcasters, funders, producers, and distributors, including Netflix, Amazon, Warner Bros. Discovery, Telefilm, Rogers, Reelworld, National Screen Institute, Canadian Film Centre, ImagineNative, Black Screen Office, Indigenous Screen Office, CBC, Bell Fund, WIFT International, Women in the Director’s Chair, and more. 

Other speakers include: Aisling Walsh (Maudie), Andrea Dorfman (Hairy Legs), Asia Youngman (Delta Dawn), Bilal Baig (Sort Of), Carol Whiteman (Women in the Director’s Chair), Cynthia Lickers-Sage (Indigenous Performing Arts Alliance), Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers (Night Raiders), Heather Young (There, There), Josephine Anderson (Curl Power), Joan Jenkinson (Black Screen Office), Jordan Canning (Schitt’s Creek), Joyce Wong (Baroness Von Sketch Show), Kathleen Hepburn (The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open), Kelly Townsend (Playback), Lori Lozinski (Little Bird), Laurie Townshend (A Mother Apart), maxine bailey (Canadian Film Centre), Michaela Kurimsky (Firecrackers), Naomi Johnson (ImagineNATIVE Film & Media Arts Festival), Renee Robinson (Film Commissioner, Jamaica), Sasha Leigh Henry (Bria Mack Gets a Life), Sherry White (Pretty Hard Cases), Sophie Deraspe (Shepherds), Tamara Segura (Seguridad), Tania Thompson (Bria Mack Gets a Life), Tara Woodbudy (Netflix), Tonya Williams (Reelworld Screen Institute), Wendy Parkies (FAST Channels), and more. 

Find the full lineup and ticket information at WomensFilmFestival.com/Forum.

WFT Ireland was proud to host the launch of the report by Dr. Susan Liddy and Dr. Fergal Rhatigan, Behind the Scenes: Exploring Harmful Behaviours in the Irish Screen Industries, addressing vital issues in the Irish screen industries. The event, which took place at the Light House Cinema in Dublin, saw an inspiring turnout, with industry professionals, sponsors, collaborators, and members joining for an engaging discussion.

The panellists were Jessica Drum (Chief Executive, Screen Guilds Ireland), Colman Farrell (Head of Skills and Professional Development, Screen Ireland), Ananta Kaur (Head of ER/IR and Industry Partnerships, Screen Producers Ireland) and Niamh O’Donnell (Director, Irish Theatre Institute and Safe to Create).

Moderated by Aoife Barry, arts journalist and author, the panel provided thought-provoking insights into the findings of the report and initiated conversations on how to address harmful behaviours within the screen industry. The discussions focused on the need for systemic change and how collaboration across organisations can drive meaningful improvements in workplace culture.

WFT Ireland extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to these critical conversations. Together, we can create a safer and more inclusive industry for all.

WFT Ireland is pleased to share the full Behind the Scenes: Exploring Harmful Behaviours in the Irish Screen Industries report by Dr. Susan Liddy and Dr. Fergal Rhatigan.

This comprehensive study examines the critical issue of harmful behaviours within the Irish screen industry and offers insights into creating safer, more inclusive workplaces. You can read and share this important work by downloading the report below.

Women are falling out of focus on the small screen. According to a new report on gender and hiring in TV presented by IMDbPro and ReFrame — an initiative of Sundance Institute and WIF — women lost gains made over the past several years in nearly every position analyzed.

Last year’s data found that women (or gender-diverse performers) accounted for 54 percent of lead roles, while the new report details a decrease of 13 percent to 41 percent. Also released as part of the study, ReFrame and IMDbPro award a Stamp to recognize gender-balanced hiring on television shows, and this year 77 of the 200 most popular TV and streaming series of 2023-24 earned the distinction (or 38.5 percent). The total represents a dip of 8.5 percent from last year, or 20 percent from a peak in 2020-21.

For a third straight year, the bulk of Emmy nominees for best comedy series earned a stamp including Abbott Elementary, The Bear, Hacks, Reservation Dogs and What We Do in the Shadows. Three of eight nominated drama series also landed one, including Fallout, The Morning Show and Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and three limited or anthology series including Baby Reindeer, Lessons in Chemistry and True Detective: Night Country.

Read the full article on The Hollywood Reporter.

Read more on Variety.