Join hosts WIFVNE Board member Alyson Muzila and Kristie Raymond of HumanKind Casting Thursday June 22nd at 5:30pm for Creating with Intention: Embracing Inclusivity in Film, Video & Commercial Media. This empowering panel discussion will focus on actionable ideas for embracing diversity and inclusion to potentially change the face of the film, TV & commercial industry.
Moderated by Laura Marotta. Featured panelists include:
- Steven Kaldeck, Actor, Editor & VFX at RAVision Productions
- Erik Kondo, Entrepreneur, Innovator, and Philanthropist
- Courtney Morse, Hair & Makeup Artist and parent of adaptive talent
Q & A session to follow.
Open to all.
Admission is $5 for WIFVNE members and $10 non-members, includes bites and beverages.
This event will delve into best practices, challenges, and opportunities in fostering inclusivity, featuring insights from industry experts, leaders in the independent film community, and advocates of marginalized groups such as the disability community.
The importance of inclusivity in the film and video production industry has begun to garner more attention. From casting decisions and industry hiring to production choices and the optics of storytelling, a commitment to diversity and inclusion is essential to our work and enriches our relationships that support our industry. Much work remains, however, to ensure equitable representation on camera and off.
Focusing on fostering diversity and equity, the panel discussion promises to unveil actionable strategies for creating more inclusive content and workplaces, setting new standards in film, video and commercial production.
It is time to truly "Widen the Lens" and create spaces that celebrate diversity, where innovation and creativity can thrive.
EVENT PANELIST BIOS:
KRISTIE RAYMOND is the founder of HumanKind Casting, the leading casting agency for diverse faces, voices and stories where “Every Body Belongs.” HumanKind provides an authentic approach to casting talent for creative assets, genuinely supporting storytelling that reflects today's social landscape and upending the traditional standard of beauty by including genuine faces of today's world.
STEVEN KALDECK is an editor and visual effects supervisor at RA Vision Productions. He made his acting debut in the independent feature film Dream. Like the character he portrays, Steven is on the autism spectrum; some of the scenes in the film are based on his real-life experiences.
ERIK KONDO is a long time wheelchair user who is an entrepreneur, innovator, and philanthropist. He is a networker and advocate for people with disabilities. He is actively involved in elevating the perception of people with disabilities through his many projects. He is currently involved in helping people with disabilities in low resource countries by providing wheelchairs and other necessary supplies.
LAURA MAROTTA is an art educator, artist, and community organizer who has taught in the Worcester and Danvers public school systems. She has served as President of the Massachusetts Art Education Association, and is co-founder and Executive Director of Creative Hub Worcester, where she ran a capital campaign to renovate a former Boys’ Club to become a community Arts center, as well as overseeing all of the organization's programs, fundraising, and events. Laura is an active member of and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
COURTNEY MORSE is a professional hair & makeup artist and parent of adaptive talent Lucy, a fashion model with Downs syndrome. Modeling since she was 3 years old, Lucy was tapped to represent Matilda Jane clothing by Changing the Face of Beauty (CTFB). CTFB’s mission is to encourage the integration of individuals with disabilities into general advertising and the media. Lucy also modeled for Charlie’s Project Kids, a clothing line created to bring awareness to autism & down syndrome. Courtney is a graduate of Empire Beauty School and has managed salons for GrettaCole, Pyara, and Bella Sante Spas. She was Senior HMU Designer for Blushing Brides Boston and is in her 7th year as a Hair & Makeup Artist for the Boston Circus Guild.
