Katy began her career in 2015 in Louisiana, working as a seamstress on the TV show “Salem.” However, when tax credits were withdrawn from Louisiana, Katy decided to move to Atlanta, a growing hub for the industry. Her determination and relentless pursuit of opportunities led her to a pivotal role as a Set Production Assistant on “Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors.”

Working in the film industry for over 8 years, in multiple departments, has expanded her “tool box” larger than she could have ever imagined. Skills ranging from communication, organization, problem solving, team management, and so many in between. Most recently, in 2020, AMC reached out to see if I’d be willing to take on a challenge of becoming their Health & Safety Manager for “The Walking Dead”, and help figure out how to get our industry back to work. Turns out this would be one of the most challenging, yet rewarding roles, and ignited a flame in me to continue growing & learning. From July 2020 – March 2022 we were able to keep a crew of 600+ going safely, during a worldwide pandemic without any down days.

From there she has been consulting & managing other AMC shows inside & outside The Walking Dead Universe. She is now Scout and Location Manager on Will Trent. As the world is continuing to adapt & change, so is she.

In recent years, the presence and influence of Latino filmmakers in the industry have surged to unprecedented levels. This dynamic panel, “The Rise of the Latino Filmmaker,” delves into the transformative journey of Latino creators as they shape and redefine the landscape of cinema.

Join us as we explore the factors fueling this remarkable growth, including the increased visibility of Latino voices, the expanding support networks, and the rich cultural narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. Our distinguished panelists will share their personal stories, discuss the challenges they’ve overcome, and highlight the groundbreaking projects that are pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

Discover how Latino filmmakers are leveraging new platforms and technologies to amplify their voices and learn about the initiatives and programs dedicated to nurturing emerging talent within the community. From grassroots efforts to major industry shifts, we’ll examine how the Latino filmmaking community is not just participating in the industry but driving its evolution.

Whether you’re a budding filmmaker, industry professional, or simply passionate about the future of cinema, this panel will provide valuable insights into the vibrant and ever-expanding world of Latino film. Join us to celebrate the achievements, address the ongoing challenges, and envision the future of Latino filmmaking.

Key Topics:

The factors contributing to the rise of Latino filmmakers
Strategies for breaking into and succeeding in the industry
The impact of cultural narratives and representation
Supporting and developing emerging Latino talent
The role of new technologies and platforms in amplifying Latino voices

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with trailblazers who are making waves and setting new standards in the world of film.

“The Business of Filming in Georgia,” an insightful panel taking place on Friday, September 27, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Regal Atlantic Station (261 19th St NW #1250, Atlanta, GA 30363). This panel is perfect for independent filmmakers, content creators, and industry professionals eager to learn how Georgia’s thriving film industry offers exceptional opportunities for production. From understanding the state’s film tax credit to learning about the unique benefits provided by individual counties, attendees will gain a comprehensive overview of why Georgia is the top destination for filmmakers.

Our distinguished panel of experts includes:

• Dr. Robyn Watson, PhD, President of WIFTA,
• Shaunya Chavis Rucker, Divisional Head of the Fulton Films Office,
• Cardelia Hunter, Director of the City of Atlanta’s Office of Film and Entertainment,
• Bronwyn Stallcup, Production Manager of the DeKalb Entertainment Commission.

They will share their insights on the vital role that Georgia’s film commissions play in the development of local productions, offering practical advice and information on how to leverage the state’s resources to bring independent projects to life. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the leaders who are shaping the future of Georgia’s film industry!

Georgia’s Film Tax Credit: Learn how the state’s generous tax incentives attract filmmakers and how you can benefit from them to maximize your budget.
County-Specific Resources: Discover the unique advantages and resources that different Georgia counties, like Fulton and DeKalb, offer for independent filmmakers and content creators.
Navigating Film Commissions: Gain insights into how Georgia’s film commissions, including the City of Atlanta’s Office of Film and Entertainment, support local productions and facilitate smoother workflows.
Opportunities for Independent Filmmakers: Understand why Georgia is the top destination for independent film production, with access to diverse locations, talent, and industry support.
Future of Georgia’s Film Industry: Hear from industry leaders about the future growth of filmmaking in Georgia and how to leverage emerging trends to enhance your career or project.

Join us for an exciting panel at the Georgia Latino Film Festival titled “The Business of Film 2: Exploring Careers in the Film Industry,” happening on Friday, September 28th, 2024, at 2:30 PM at Regal Atlantic Station (261 19th St NW #1250, Atlanta, GA 30363). This panel is perfect for aspiring filmmakers and industry enthusiasts eager to explore the diverse career paths available within the film industry. Whether you’re passionate about financing, location scouting, distribution, stunts, or advocacy, this discussion will offer invaluable insights into the many opportunities in the world of film.

Our distinguished panel of speakers includes Erik Gordon, VP of Marketing/Brand Strategy/Business Development, who will dive into the crucial aspects of Film Financing; Katy Morecraft, a seasoned Location Scouting expert; Jorge Suarez from GALIFF AVQ, who will cover Film Distribution; and Dr. Ric Mathis, Producer and AI expert. The panel will be moderated by Asante Bradford, Digital & Interactive Entertainment | Economic Development Liaison, who will share his expertise on industry advocacy. This is a must-attend event for anyone looking to break into the film industry and gain a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities it holds.

The future of filmmaking is now, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the industry in ways that level the playing field for independent filmmakers. Whether you’re new to the scene or an established professional, AI can streamline your filmmaking process by automating time-consuming tasks like research, emails, social media management, and even brainstorming. By speeding up workflows and reducing the need for large teams, AI doesn’t just save time—it saves money, allowing filmmakers to focus more on creativity. This panel will dive deep into how AI is becoming a powerful tool for documentarians and filmmakers alike, helping them bring their visions to life faster and smarter.

Join industry experts as they explore the practical applications of AI in filmmaking and teach you how to harness its power to enhance your projects. Andrew Greenberg, Executive Director of the Georgia Game Developers Association, along with filmmakers Laila Harrison, Asante Bradford, and Dr. Ric Mathis, will offer insights on using AI tools to maximize your production’s potential. With AI transforming workflows, attendees will learn how to ask the right questions (prompting) and get meaningful results from tools like ChatGPT and others. This is a must-attend panel for any filmmaker looking to embrace the future and make the most of AI’s capabilities.

Five Key Takeaways:

Learn how AI can automate administrative tasks, saving time and reducing overhead costs.
Understand the basics of AI prompting to ensure you get the answers you need from AI tools.
Discover how AI can expedite research and brainstorming, freeing filmmakers to focus on creativity.
Hear firsthand experiences from filmmakers who are already incorporating AI into their workflows.
Explore how AI can be a game-changer for independent filmmakers, offering resources that were once out of reach for smaller productions.

Join us for a stimulation conversation with industry experts to discuss Mental Health After Covid and Strike. With the film industry facing numerous challenges over the past few years—from production slowdowns to the pressures of the pandemic—issues of mental health have taken center stage. Productions are now increasingly aware of the toll these uncertainties have had on filmmakers, actors, and crew members alike. As the industry strives to recover, it’s critical to prioritize mental wellness, not only to foster creativity but to build a healthier work environment.

This panel, “Destigmatizing Mental Health for Emerging and Practicing Filmmakers,” will explore how the entertainment industry is addressing mental health head-on and provide practical tools for individuals navigating these challenges.

Join us at the Georgia Latino Film Festival for an insightful discussion featuring Dr. Pierluigi Mancini, PhD, behavioral health expert and author; Edward Delgado-Romero, PhD, Associate Dean at UGA; Karen Ceesay, actress and producer (Stranger Things, The Walking Dead); and George Lott, actor, singer, writer, and director. Our panelists will offer personal stories, actionable advice, and discuss the role of cultural competence in creating supportive environments. This conversation is crucial for anyone in the industry seeking to prioritize mental health, resilience, and well-being in their professional journey.

Topics:

Mental health is foundational for creativity – A stable mental state helps filmmakers stay creative, focused, and productive, especially in high-pressure environments.
Recognizing industry-specific stressors – Filmmakers face unique challenges, such as irregular hours, job insecurity, and intense competition, all of which can contribute to mental health struggles.
The importance of support systems – Building strong support networks, whether through industry connections, therapy, or peer groups, is critical to managing the demands of the film industry.
Cultural competence matters – Understanding diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives is crucial in addressing mental health stigma within the industry and creating inclusive spaces for healing.
Proactive mental health practices – Panelists shared practical strategies like mindfulness, self-care routines, and seeking professional help early on to maintain mental wellness throughout one’s career.

Join us at the Georgia Latino International Film Festival for the Closing Panel: Afrolatinos’ Voices: Sharing Stories of Resistance in the Film Industry and Media, where panelists will address the challenges Afrolatinos face and explore actionable solutions for the future. With actor, singer, producer, and director Papo Kapuchino, actor and comedian Cesar Pichardo, actress Korinny Sanchez, Actor, Musician, Bryan Lopez and Yvette Moise, President, and Co-founder of GALFA Moderator, this discussion promises to inspire progress and change in the industry.

The “Afrolatinos’ Voices: Sharing Stories of Resistance in the Film Industry and Media” panel at the Georgia Latino International Film Festival aims to shine a light on the significant challenges Afrolatinos face in the entertainment industry. For too long, Afrolatinos have been underrepresented and misrepresented in both mainstream and Latino media, often portrayed through harmful stereotypes or excluded altogether. This lack of visibility not only impacts Afrolatino actors and filmmakers but also perpetuates a narrow view of Latino identity, ignoring the diverse cultural and racial heritage that exists within the Latino community. Discrimination in casting, limited access to resources, and a scarcity of industry professionals who understand and reflect Afrolatino experiences are among the key barriers panelists will address.

Despite these challenges, the conversation will focus on resistance and actionable solutions for change. Panelists will share how they’ve worked to create opportunities for themselves and others, from grassroots initiatives to developing culturally authentic projects. There will be discussions on how to increase Afrolatino representation in all facets of the industry, including leadership roles, and the importance of building networks that support Afrolatino creatives. The panel will explore how the next generation of filmmakers can use media as a tool for resistance, highlighting the importance of inclusive storytelling that breaks down barriers and elevates diverse voices.