The British Virgin Islands Film Commission, hosted a media familirisation breakfast bringing together industry professionals for the purpose of networking. Also known as a “fam” event within the tourism industry, the event attracted 25 local media professionals.
The networking event comprised of videography, photography, animation, sound, writing and directing professionals. The day’s event consisted of engaging conversations aimed at understanding the Film Commission and its role and discussions on how media professionals and the Film Commission office can collaborate in efforts to grow the industry in the BVI, as well as the current challenges being faced. Accomplished London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMBDA) actor and producer Sheldon Frett also made a presentation that challenged the film community to consider the state of the filming industry in the Virgin Islands. He encouraged them to “bet on yourself” and “invest in your talent”.
“The “Fam” Breakfast is essentially a networking informal event that is curated for local media professionals, specifically those in the film and photography industry to be able to meet and network with other like-minded professionals,” commented Natalie Hodge, Film Commissioner. “Our objective is to ensure that our local media professionals get to know their “Film Commission Office,” the role of the Film Commission and to identify and discuss ways how we can best support their endeavours as they navigate careers in this industry as well as to ensure the Film Commission’s presence.”
Hodge continued, “We are pleased with the turnout and thankful to those persons who took the time to attend this year’s informative and interactive session. Last year, we discussed establishing initiatives to not only collaborate with local media professionals but to also support the development of their skills. The October 30th anniversary video competition, last year saw talent from across the territory and this is one such initiative we aim to grow.”
The BVI Film Commissioner went on to encourage all filmmakers to participate in this year’s video competition titled the Say Less Film Fest. The Say Less Film Fest is aimed at displaying and developing local talent and will subsequently result in marketing and promoting BVI through shared talents and skills as a premier film location.
The BVI Film Commission celebrated its 30th year anniversary in 2022 and continues to work to create an uptick in the number of film productions coming to BVI while strengthening and encouraging local media professionals in developing their craft.