"I love WIFTA because it not only champions the creative brilliance of Women in Film and Television but also fosters an environment where professional growth and meaningful connections flourish."
Ty Johnston-Chavis
Wifta Board Members
By Robyn Watson
In 1973, Tichi Wilkerson Kassel, then publisher of The Hollywood Reporter, suggested that an organization be started to help women in the entertainment industry. A small group of women met on the following Tuesday and sat on the floor of Tichi's office for what was to become a historic brainstorming session.
"Empowering women in film isn't just about breaking barriers, it's about building bridges to a future where every voice is heard and every story is celebrated."
-Robyn Watson
All agreed that women should help women and that it was time to mobilize. Hence the Women in Film organization was born. Shortly after that, the Atlanta Chapter of Women in Film & Television was founded upon those same principles in 1974 by Beverly Kievman Copen as the first President with Barbara Thomas the VP, making it the second oldest chapter in the Women In Film organization to promote gender parity in the film industry through research, education, and media campaigns.
“Why is being remembered as part of the WIFTA history important to me? Beginnings are important, as they are the beginning of what could be. The idea of planting seeds and watching them grow is part of my passion in life.” ~ Beverly Kievman Copen
Since its inception in 1974, Women in Film & Television Atlanta (WIFTA) has been a beacon of creativity and empowerment for women in the film and television industry. This year marks a significant milestone as WIFTA celebrates its 50th anniversary, highlighting the achievements, contributions, and resilience of women in the world of entertainment.
Impact and Achievements
As of 2022, WIFTA's demographic breakdown reflects a diverse and inclusive community, with 85% of members identifying as female; there are also approximately 50 male members who support the organization and members. Through its programs, events, and initiatives, WIFTA has empowered countless women to pursue their dreams and break barriers in a male-dominated industry. The organization's impact extends beyond just networking, offering educational workshops, mentorship opportunities, and advocacy for gender equality.
"I love WIFTA because it not only champions the creative brilliance of Women in Film and Television but also fosters an environment where professional growth and meaningful connections flourish. Through WIFTA, we are not just advancing our careers, but also shaping a more inclusive and dynamic industry." ~ Ty Johnston-Chavis
WIFTA has empowered countless women to pursue their dreams and break barriers in a male-dominated industry through its various programs, events, and initiatives. From providing educational workshops and mentorship opportunities to hosting networking events and film festivals, WIFTA has been instrumental in highlighting and advancing the careers of women in film and television. Each month WIFTA provides events and educational programming to promote networking and professional development among its members and the general film/television industry at large. Program topics cover a broad range of subject matter about all aspects of the industry and respective of the diverse composition of its membership.
WIFTA also has signature events and programming each year; including:
•Short Film Showcase – an annual showcase highlighting talented filmmakers’ work throughout the Southeast and beyond with a focus, of course, on uplifting the works of strong Women filmmakers, crews, and leads., political, documentary and experimental.
•WIFTA Gala – an annual fundraising event and awards ceremony spotlighting women in the Georgia entertainment community. It’s also where WIFTA awards scholarships to the up-and-coming creatives studying film & television in Georgia
•Women In Production Summit (WIPS) – an annual event hosted by a collaborative partnership of the Producers Guild of America (PGA), WIN (Women’s Impact Network), WIFTA (Women in Film & Television/Atlanta), Black Women Film Network, Film Fatales, and the Alliance of Women Directors whose mission is to make Georgia the most inclusive and women-friendly media market in the country.
"Together, we are not just shaping the present, but also sculpting a brighter tomorrow for the next generation of creative women."
-Robyn Watson
Looking Ahead
As WIFTA enters its 50th year, the organization remains committed to service and scholarship, supporting the entertainment community in Georgia and beyond. By ramping up its community presence and partnerships, WIFTA continues to expand its internship program, and nurture the next generation of industry professionals.
With these new partnerships, WIFTA will strengthen its internship program by the Spring of 2025. To date, WIFTA offers two types of internships:
•In-House Internships - internships with WIFTA that are based on the organization’s needs. WIFTA currently has interns from The Creative Media Industries Institute at Georgia State and the Fulton County Schools Internship Program
•WIFTA Partners Internships - opportunities for WIFTA members in a variety of disciplines from top firms across metro Atlanta. WIFTA has had internships with WarnerMedia and Turner Sports.
WIFTA is always looking to provide opportunities for their members so if you’re interested in becoming a partner for the WIFTA Internship Program, reach out to: [email protected] and include in the subject “I Want To Be a WIFTA Internship Partner.” And if you want to learn more about WIFTA, go to wifta.org > GET INVOLVED and join the organization.
"Empowering women in film isn't just about breaking barriers, it's about building bridges to a future where every voice is heard and every story is celebrated. Together, we are not just shaping the present, but also sculpting a brighter tomorrow for the next generation of creative women." ~ Robyn Watson
WIFTA’s success can be attributed to its strong leadership and board representation. This year, four of its executive board members and board counsel – Robyn Watson, Cardellia Hunter, Randie Brooks, Shelbia Jackson and Nancy Prager -- were featured as one of Georgia Entertainment’s 200 Most Influential of Georgia’s Creative Industries.
“As the newest board member and VP of Programming for Women in Film and Television Atlanta (WIFTA), I am incredibly honored to be part of an organization that champions the voices and talents of women in our industry. I am committed to creating inclusive and empowering opportunities that will inspire and support our members in their creative journeys.” ~ GlenNeta Griffin, Women in Film and Television Atlanta.
In Conclusion
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Women in Film & Television Atlanta, we salute the trailblazing women who have paved the way for future generations of storytellers, filmmakers, and industry professionals. Through their creativity, resilience, and determination, women in the entertainment business continue to inspire us all and shape the future of film and television. WIFTA is a consistent driving force and advocate for positive change in the world of film and television.
Current Board Members
Robyn Watson ,Cardellia Hunter, Shelbia Jackson, Katy Womack, Randie Brooks, Aeriel Coleman, Teresa Edwards, GlenNeta Griffin, Shellie Schmals, Angi Bones, BJ Arnett.
Happy 50th Anniversary WIFTA!
