The Creative Exodus Is Real

Why Women + Underrepresented Talent are Leaving, and Why We’re Not Going Quietly

A Panel Discussion with Q&A

The creative industries are losing brilliant women and underrepresented talent at an alarming rate. Burnout, toxic cultures, lack of recognition, and systemic barriers have forced too many of us out of the spaces we once fought to enter.

This bold state-of-the-industry conversation asks: what’s really driving the exodus—and what are we building instead?

Join Katie Cadwell (Creative Director + Industry Advocate), Nikita Dare (Founder of SISTALAND), and Kim MacAskill (Screenwriter, TV Writer and AAA Game Writer) as they cut through the noise with unfiltered honesty. Expect sharp truths, lived experience, and radical ideas for reshaping the future of creative work.

Proudly sponsored by Lucky Dip and the NDA Podcast, this session isn’t about quiet exits—it’s about bold, collective action.

The Untold Power of Female Unit Stills

Unit stills are more than just behind-the-scenes snapshots — they shape the story a project tells the world. Yet women and non-binary photographers are still underrepresented in this space.

Workshop

Jess (founder of The Stills Sister Collective) shares why bringing female perspectives onto sets matters — from representation and trust with cast/crew, to the unique artistry and authenticity women bring to stills. Expect an open, inspiring session on re-thinking industry norms, championing inclusivity, and practical advice for producers, directors, and creatives on hiring female photographers.

Wild & Ready: A Survival Guide for Women Filming in Remote Locations

A practical, confidence-building workshop for women stepping into outdoor, remote, or challenging environments — from UK fields to deserts, rainforests, and mountain tops. Led by survivalist and expedition leader Megan Hine, this session equips you with the essentials to stay safe, comfortable, and in control while focusing on your creative work.

Hands-on workshop (60–90 mins) with practical demos, small-group exercises, and Q&A.

What you’ll learn:

• Safety & Security Essentials – situational awareness, reading your environment, solo/crew travel habits, and personal security kit.

• Feminine Hygiene & Comfort in the Field – smart ways to manage periods, privacy, and hygiene in all conditions.

• Basic Outdoor Skills – packing light, water purification, weather protection, and what to do if plans change.

• Thrivalist Mindset – staying resilient, managing fear and fatigue, and making clear decisions under pressure.

Pitch Without Permission

Reclaiming the Room + Telling Your Story Authentically

A Panel Discussion with Q&A

The traditional pitching process is broken—too often shutting out women and underrepresented talent before the conversation even begins. But what happens when we stop waiting for permission, and start telling our stories on our own terms?

This empowering session flips the script on how to share your vision, land opportunities, and stand out without diluting who you are. Expect real-world strategies, confidence-building tools, and unapologetic honesty about navigating rejection, bias, and the power dynamics at play.

With Amanda Graham (Writer, Script Editor + Public Speaker) and more speakers to be announced, this panel is a must for anyone tired of playing by outdated rules and ready to rewrite them.

Build the Shit You Want to See

How to Make the Work That Doesn’t Exist Yet

A Panel Discussion with Q&A

Tired of waiting for permission? This session is about rolling up your sleeves and creating the films, businesses, collectives, and opportunities you wish already existed. It’s for the rebels, the innovators, and the doers who know that if we want change, we have to build it ourselves.

Hosted by Lois (SHORTIES), with Jodie Deakin (Founder of A Beautiful Place to Get Lost) and Sara Harrak (British-Moroccan Writer and Director), this conversation will dig into the highs, lows, and practical realities of making your own lane. From crowdfunding to creative resilience, expect sharp insights and raw honesty.

Proudly sponsored by SHORTIES, this panel is a rallying cry to stop waiting and start building.

Fail Big, Bounce Hard

Turning Setbacks into Fuel for What’s Next

A Panel Discussion with Q&A

Failure is inevitable in the creative industries—but it doesn’t have to be the end of the story. In fact, the biggest stumbles often spark the boldest comebacks.

This unapologetic session explores the power of failure as a catalyst for growth, resilience, and reinvention. Expect raw honesty, laughter, and hard-won lessons on how to survive the lows, learn from them, and bounce back stronger.

Featuring Emma Ahlert (Founder of Elsie) with more speakers to be announced soon, this conversation will remind you that “failure” isn’t a dirty word—it’s part of the process..

Mental Health Is Not Up for Negotiation

Protecting Wellbeing in Creative Work

A Panel Discussion with Q&A

Too often, the creative industries demand everything—long hours, relentless hustle, constant availability—at the expense of our wellbeing. But mental health is not a “nice to have.” It’s non-negotiable.

This essential session challenges toxic norms and explores how we can create healthier, more sustainable ways of working. Expect honest conversation about boundaries, burnout, and building support systems that actually work.

With Abbie Hills (Access Coordinator + Mental Health Advocate) and more speakers to be announced, this discussion is for anyone who has ever felt the pressure to sacrifice their wellbeing just to stay in the game.