Women in Film and Television Jamaica (WIFTJA) announced the appointment of a new board to lead the organisation into a year of continued growth and innovation.
Heading the board is the newly elected President, Stephanie Hazle Lyle, a visionary known for her dedication to advancing the well-being of women and girls, using film as a catalyst for societal transformation. Assuming the role of Vice President, Noelle Wright, brings with her a wealth of experience as an actor and producer with the mind of a pragmatist and the heart of a dreamer.
The board of directors is comprised of industry luminaries, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the table:
- Fae Ellington: A distinguished figure in Jamaican media and theatre arts, Fae brings a wealth of knowledge and influence to the board, championing structural development and sustainability in all facets of the industry. Notably, she was the Jamaica Language Coach for Bob Marley: One Love (2024).
- Natasha Griffiths: A beach-loving writer-director and educator with a penchant for the pen and a passion for cinematic storytelling, known for telling stories that are idiosyncratic of the Caribbean and deeply resonant globally.
- Brianna Rae Nelson: Making waves in the field of television internationally, Brianna Rae is a corporate creative marketer in Film & TV with a passion for storytelling through the lens of directing and producing. She is dedicated to promoting the voices of women in front of and behind the camera, advocating for authentic representation and equitable opportunities.
- Dr. Lisa Tomlinson: An author and senior lecturer at the University of the West Indies, Mona-Lisa teaches African Diaspora and Caribbean films, World Cinema and Introduction to Drama. • Ina Sotirova: Bringing an international perspective to the board, Ina is an award-winning storyteller and TEDx speaker with 15+ years of experience in media, photography and documentaries, who also writes, directs and edits fiction and experimental films.
Under the guidance of this esteemed leadership team, WIFTJA is poised to embark on an ambitious agenda for 2024 and beyond, including continued and new initiatives to expand the skillsets, broaden the visibility and foster impactful professional relationships for our members.
President Stephanie Hazle Lyle expressed her excitement for the years ahead, stating, “I am honoured to lead WIFTJA alongside such an eminent and dedicated board, and with the unwavering support of our former President Nadean Rawlins, who has worked tirelessly to build on an impressive foundation, and now waves the Jamaican banner as a director of the board of Women in Film and Television International (WIFTI).
Together, we are committed to reinforcing the narrative of “women supporting women” while fostering a culture of inclusivity within our industry.”
For more information about Women in Film and Television Jamaica and to stay updated on upcoming events and initiatives, please visit www.wiftja.org.
