Netflix's commitment to knowledge transfer and talent cultivation in the region underscores its dedication to fostering diverse voices and narratives within the entertainment landscape, offering both emerging and established creators a platform to flourish.
Netflix and Women in Animation Nepal have collaborated on a panel discussion to spotlight voices traditionally marginalised in the entertainment industry.
The event shed light on a global shift among filmmakers from underrepresented communities, who are eager to bring forth narratives previously overlooked. By placing these storytellers behind the lens, the industry stands poised for transformation, offering audiences a more diverse array of stories that resonate on a deeper level.
Key themes addressing how to foster this transformation and propel inclusivity forward took centre stage at a panel session held alongside the UNESCO World Conference on Culture and Arts Education at ADNEC this week.
Representatives from Netflix, Women in Animation Nepal, Incessant Rain Studios, and the ‘Becoming Maestre’ initiative, along with the David Di Donatello Film Awards, converged to underscore the significance of diversity and the imperative to create pathways for underrepresented communities within the industry.
Ernesto Ottone R, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture, said: “The event by Women in Animation Nepal and Netflix has brought a valuable perspective to the UNESCO Conference. As the audiovisual industry stands upon the precipice of change – towards more inclusion and representation at all levels – we must continue to ensure spaces for dialogues open to private and public sectors alike. We thank our partners for the inspiring discussions which sow the seeds of opportunities for storytellers everywhere.”
Crucially, the panel highlighted the necessity for increased investment in training and upskilling programmes tailored to marginalised communities, offering them tangible pathways for professional advancement. Discussions also centred on fostering partnerships between arts organisations, cultural entities, and entertainment companies to provide funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities attuned to local contexts.
Deepa Joshi, Special Advisor, Women in Animation Nepal, added: “Women in Animation Nepal is working to make the industry more inclusive and accessible. In our case, this means raising awareness and building skills among communities who may not have previously thought careers in our industry were possible. Following the recently announced partnership with UNESCO and Women in Animation, we are thrilled to continue advancing the conversation with Netflix and other great organisations.”
Krysia Kozniewska, Lead, Fund for Creative Equity, EMEA – Netflix, stated: “Netflix is a long-term partner to the creative community. We focus on talent development and skills building to support the industry at large and help grow the next generation of talent. In order to be a meaningful part of the creative community, it’s important to identify the right partners and foster impactful partnerships. Through our Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, we’ve committed to invest $100m over five years to build new pathways for underrepresented communities within the entertainment industry. As we invest in film and television around the world, we are working with industry partners to catalyze skills advancement and provide creators with the tools they need to tell the best version of their stories.”
Netflix has been investing in knowledge transfer and building the talent pipeline in the region through content on the service, financial grants and upskilling initiatives, providing both new and established voices a platform to break through in the industry.
Moderated by Saana Azzam, the panel featured voices such as Deepa Chipalu Joshi, Kiran Bhakta Joshi of Incessant Rain Studios, Krysia Kozniewska of Netflix, and Massimo Mascolo, Project Manager of ‘Becoming Maestre’ and General Manager of the David Di Donatello Film Awards.
