Join us for an exclusive showcase spotlighting the creativity and innovation of some of South Korea’s most exciting studios and production companies. From global sensations like The King of Mask Singer (MBC), Kingdom (AStory), and Moving (Mr. Romance), to fresh narratives such as LTNS (CJ ENM), Love Scout (EO Content Group), and original titles from OAL — this session offers a curated glimpse into the stories and talent defining the next chapter of K-Content. As Korean content continues to captivate global audiences, this is a rare opportunity to connect with the studios and visionaries driving Hallyu forward and shaping the future of international co-productions.

Speaking

Presenter

Brian M. Kim

Producer of Global Contents

Mr. Romance

Presenter

Jeff Kim

Team Lead, Global Business

AStory

Presenter

Juyeon Choi

International Sales Manager -Americas, EMEA, CIS

CJENM Korea

Presenter

Julie Kim

Deputy Director

MBC Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation

Presenter

Eun-Young Oh

CEO

EO Contents Group

Presenter

Yoonmi Kim

CEO

OAL - Once A Lifetime

BANFF’s Spotlight sessions are designed to give executives at the world's most exciting content platforms the stage to reveal their programming priorities and needs. Executives will reveal everything producers need to know – what they are looking for in content, what's working and what's not and how best to engage with them – and delegates can participate in a Q&A at the end. 

Speaking

Carrie Mudd

Founder/Executive Producer

Peacock Alley Entertainment

Tara Woodbury

Director, Content - Canada

Netflix

Danielle Woodrow

Director, Content - Canada

Netflix

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

CoPro Connect is a 45 minute roundtable session where you have the opportunity to meet with International producers, distributors, and funders to spark international creative and business partnerships. Driven by the industry’s booming demand for coproduction, this session is focused on connecting Canadian Producers with key players who are navigating and investing in this space. Up to 4 delegates can sign up in advance to join you at your table.

Attendees who secured a spot in advance should arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. There is a 5 minute grace period. If you show up more than 5 minutes after your session start time you will lose your spot.  

If you did not secure a spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 20-30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Speaking

Table host

Jarmo Lampela

Head of Drama

YLE Finnish Broadcasting Company

Table host

Morad Koufane

Director of International and Young Adult Drama

France Televisions

Jennifer Liang

Head of Acquisitions

JoySauce

Table host

Gentry Kirby

Senior Director & Producer 30 for 30

ESPN

Table host

Liz Wise Lyall

SVP, Scripted Development & Programming, Lifetime

Lifetime

Table host

Hojin Kwon

Senior Executive Director

SBS Medianet

Table host

Justina Wójtowicz

EVP, Acquisitions, Co-Productions & Sales

Rive Gauche Television

Table host

Moritz Polter

Executive Producer & Managing Director

Windlight Pictures

Table host

Richard Life

SVP, Acquisitions & Co-Productions

Cineflix Rights

Table host

Eric Phillips

Vice President, Drama Development

Sony Pictures Television

Table host

Laura Mae Harding

Commissioning Editor for International Co-Productions

ZDF

Table host

Larry Bass

CEO

ShinAwiL

Table host

Pancho Mansfield

President, Global Scripted Television

Blink49 Studios

Table host

Médéric Albouy

Producer / President

Scenario42

BANFF’s Spotlight sessions are designed to give executives at the world's most exciting content platforms the stage to reveal their programming priorities and needs. Executives will reveal everything producers need to know – what they are looking for in content, what's working and what's not and how best to engage with them – and delegates can participate in a Q&A at the end.

Speaking

Mark Bishop

Co-President

Blue Ant Studios

Kirsten Hurd

Commissioning Editor

TVOkids

Natasha Negrea

Head of Programming

TVO

Join us as we officially open the 2025 edition of the Banff World Media Festival, featuring special guests and important announcements.

Speaking

Jenn Kuzmyk

SVP, Publisher, Playback & Executive Director, BANFF

Banff World Media Festival

Sean Cohan

President

Bell Media

Patrick Vien

Group Managing Director, International

A+E Global Media

Elder Tracey Stevens

Elder, Stoney Nakoda Nation

Minister Tanya Fir

Minister of Arts, Culture & Status of Women

Government of Alberta

From high-stakes drama to razor-sharp comedy, this all-star lineup of showrunners will discuss the creative, collaborative, and chaotic process of making television that breaks through. Join Daniel Cerone (The Cleaning Lady, Dexter), Ashley Michel Hoban (Dr. Death, Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy), Eric Ledgin (St. Denis Medical, Superstore, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia), Justin Spitzer (St. Denis Medical, Superstore, American Auto) and Jennifer Whalen (Small Achievable Goals, Baroness Von Sketch Show) as we dig into what’s changing in the writers’ room, how audience and viewing habits are rewriting the rules, and why story still reigns — even as the industry shifts beneath their feet.

Speaking

Jennifer Whalen

Showrunner & Executive Producer

CBC Media Center

Ashley Michel Hoban

Showrunner & Executive Producer

Elaine Low

Staff Writer

The Ankler

Daniel Cerone

Showrunner & Executive Producer

Justin Spitzer

Showrunner & Executive Producer

Universal

Eric Ledgin

Showrunner & Executive Producer

Universal

BANFF’s Spotlight sessions are designed to give executives at the world's most exciting content platforms the stage to reveal their programming priorities and needs. Executives will reveal everything producers need to know – what they are looking for in content, what's working and what's not and how best to engage with them – and delegates can participate in a Q&A at the end.

Speaking

Noah Segal

Co-President

Elevation Pictures Corp.

Jennifer Dettman

Executive Director, Unscripted Content

CBC

Trish Williams

Executive Director, Scripted Content

CBC

After a nationwide search for the best unproduced Canadian comedy pilot, one standout script has risen above the rest—and it’s coming to life at BANFF. Join us for an exclusive live table read of New Spanish written by Andrew De Angelis (Children Ruin Everything, The Lake, Orphan Black) featuring a cast of talented actors as they bring the pilot to the stage for the very first time. 

New Spanish is a politically charged comedy that takes place in a post-Trump era where a small town in Ontario is looking to secede from Canada.

Come for the art, stay for the party! 

Speaking

Writer

Andrew De Angelis

Writer

Screaming Viking

Performer

Julian De Zotti

Writer, Actor, Co-founder of Hot Pilot Party

Anthology Productions

Performer

Nadine Bhabha

Writer, Actor, Co-Founder of Hot Pilot Party

Nineteen90 Productions

Performer

Susan Serrao

Comedian, Writer, Producer

got milf?

Performer

Taye Diggs

Actor, Executive Producer

Performer

Jennifer Whalen

Showrunner & Executive Producer

CBC Media Center

Performer

Dani Kind

Actor & Director

Performer

Cody Lightning

Actor, Writer, Director

Lightningmill Productions

Performer

Praneet Akilla

Actor & Producer

Akilla Express Ltd.

Join us for the BANFF opening night cocktail taking place in the Alberta/New Brunswick ballroom and in Riverview Lounge where we will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Eagle Vision. 

Drop-in on site - no previous sign up required.

These popular 45-minute informal sessions are a great way to connect with the right people and add to your network. Hosted by industry experts, join these guided conversations to gain insight into specific topics including treaties and co-productions, financing, AI, sustainability and more! Up to 6 delegates can join a topic table at one time; half way through the 45 minute session a bell will ring inviting delegates to move to another table as space allows. 

Space is filled and managed on a first come first served basis until we hit capacity.

Speaking

Table host

Mary-Anne Taylor

Head of Content Distribution, Canada

Roku

TOPIC TABLE: Exploring Streaming Distribution

Table host

Chris Bell

Manager, Content

Netflix

TOPIC TABLE: Creative Pre-Development: Prepping Your Pitch

Table host

Winnie Luk

Executive Director

Disability Screen Office

TOPIC TABLE: Beyond Inclusion: The Future of Accessibility & Disability Representation in Canadian Media (Co-hosted with Kevin Wallis)

Table host

J.C. Mills

President and Head of Content

Cineflix Productions

TOPIC TABLE: Co-Productions: Canada & U.S

Table host

Carolyn Carbone

Creative Executive

Apple TV+ International

TOPIC TABLE: Canadian Originals

Table host

Sarah Fowlie

Head of Production, Original Programming

Bell Media

TOPIC TABLE: Creative Producing with Commissioning Broadcasters and Streamers

Table host

Dan Fill

President

Dark Slope

TOPIC TABLE: LED Volume Production: fun, elevated quality, cost effective production

Table host

Kim Roberts

Co-CEO

Sepia Films

TOPIC TABLE: Murder in a Small Town: An indie model for financing a series

Table host

Kevin Wallis

Co-Founder / Executive Producer

Longhope Media Inc.

TOPIC TABLE: Beyond Inclusion: The Future of Accessibility & Disability Representation in Canadian Media (Co-hosted with Winnie Luk)

Table host

Benjamin Field

Founder & Executive Producer

Deep Fusion Films

TOPIC TABLE: AI in Production: Practical Steps, Ethical Hurdles

Table host

Frédéric Pittoors D'Haveskercke

Business Affairs

Baradal

TOPIC TABLE: Working with European Commissioners & Producers

Table host

Samantha De France

Senior Production Executive

Amazon MGM Studios

TOPIC TABLE: Working with Amazon MGM Studios Canada: A How to Guide

Table host

Nicole Hamilton

EVP, English Content

Attraction

TOPIC TABLE: Development: ideas into reality

Table host

Wadooah Wali

Co-Founder, Chief Strategy Officer & Executive Producer

New Canvas

TOPIC TABLE: Cross Borders. Cross Platforms. Create Hits.

Table host

Rekha Shah

VP, Television Licensing for Paramount Global Content Distribution

Paramount

TOPIC TABLE: Studio vs Indie Distribution 101

Table host

Karen Harnisch

Co-President & Producer

Film Forge

TOPIC TABLE: Creative Approaches to Treaty Co-Production

Table host

Saleena Lockett

Producer

TOPIC TABLE: From Idea to Story: Navigating Development

The Power of the Collective: Bleeding Fingers Redefines the Composer’s Path
Join a panel of featured composers from Bleeding Fingers Music—a multiple Emmy Award-winning and BAFTA-nominated composer collective to explore how a collective approach is transforming the sonic landscape of film and television. Built on collaboration rather than hierarchy, Bleeding Fingers empowers emerging composers to take creative leadership on major projects early on in their careers. How does this model work in practice, and what does it mean for the future of the industry? In this candid conversation, a stylistically diverse group of composers—spanning gender, race, nationality and age—discuss how Bleeding Fingers is challenging convention, while championing individuality and proving that the creative power of the collective can be greater than the sum of its parts.

Speaking

Anze Rozman

Composer

Bleeding Fingers Music

Ho-Ling Tang

Composer

Bleeding Fingers Music

Sami Goldberg

Composer, Singer-Songwriter & Multi-Instrumentalist

Bleeding Fingers Music

Thom Lukas

Composer

Bleeding Fingers Music

Kara Talve

Principal Composer

Bleeding Fingers Music

Russell Emanuel

Co-Founder, President & CEO

Bleeding Fingers Music & Extreme Music

Speaking

Vicky Eatrides

Chairperson and CEO

CRTC Canadian Radio Television & Telecommunications Commission

In a rare and timely gathering, the presidents of Canada’s leading media companies share the stage for a candid conversation about the future of the industry. At a pivotal moment both globally and at home, these influential leaders will explore how the landscape must evolve and discuss what’s next as their organizations chart a path for the next generation.

Speaking

Sean Cohan

President

Bell Media

Marie-Philippe Bouchard

President & CEO

CBC/Radio-Canada

Michael Serapio

Anchor, PrimeTime Politics

CPAC The Cable Public Affairs Channel

Colette Watson

President

Rogers Sports & Media

Speed Meetings Netflix-Banff Diversity of Voices (DOV) Pitch Participant Speed Meetings - note this is a private session, by invite only. If you’d like to find out more information about the Netflix-Banff Diversity of Voices Program and becoming a Pitch Participant at a future festival please contact banfffellowships@brunico.com 

Prior to BANFF 25 DOV Pitch Participants were selected to have curated meetings with development executives, distributors, programmers and funders whose remit is aligned with the individual’s screen-based project content. This session offers a one-on-one, eight-minute meeting.

Please arrive at the session room 20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. Showing up late for your scheduled time slot will result in losing your meeting slot.

Speed Meetings are on the Conference Centre side of the hotel, on the 2nd floor. Give yourself extra time to make your way over from the main lobby of the hotel so that you are not late for your scheduled meetings.

As broadcasters and studios operate in an increasingly competitive environment, YouTube can play an important role in finding an audience, building loyal fans and driving meaningful business results.

In this discussion, we’ll talk to media leaders about how they’ve successfully leveraged YouTube to deliver incremental audiences, revenue and engagement, both on the platform and on other distribution services.

Speaking

Panelist

James Loveridge

Co-Managing Director, Agency

Little Dot Studios

Joe Harbinson

Senior Distribution & Partnerships Lead - Social & Digital

Channel 4

Panelist

Paul McGrath

Senior Director, Digital Publishing

CBC Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

Fresh off the premiere of season 2, the Canadian team behind “Battle of the Generations” share the story behind creating a new game show format. With a panel featuring the hosting, editorial and funding leads, all aspects of the series will be explored including the importance of a modern game show’s digital presence and the adaptability of a format ready to go worldwide.

Speaking

Jordan Pinto

North American Editor

C21 Media

Lilly Singh

Actress, Writer, Producer

Daniel Mekinda

EVP, Motion Entertainment Canada

GroupM Canada Inc.

Michelle Crespi

Executive Producer & Director

Bell Media Studios

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

These 30-minute informal networking sessions are designed to connect you with top distributors in a small group setting. This is your opportunity to connect, build your network, discuss trends and spark potential partnerships. Sign up in advance; a maximum of 6 delegates at each table. 

Attendees who secured a spot in advance should arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. There is a 5 minute grace period. If you show up more than 5 minutes after your session start time you will lose your spot. 

If you did not secure a spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 20-30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Speaking

Table host

Natalie Vinet

SVP, Global Distribution

Boat Rocker

Table host

Jodi Mackie

Sr. Director, Content Sales & Co-Productions

BBC Studios Canada Limited

Table host

Mary-Anne Taylor

Head of Content Distribution, Canada

Roku

Table host

Brook Peters

SVP, Sales & Business Development

Neshama & FOX Entertainment Global

Table host

Jeremy Smith

EVP, Distribution & Sales

Elevation Pictures Corp.

Table host

Justin Rebelo

CEO

Vortex Media

Table host

Richard Life

SVP, Acquisitions & Co-Productions

Cineflix Rights

Table host

Chrystine Girard

Head of International Distribution

Encore Television Distribution

Table host

Ava Knight

Director, Acquisitions

Fifth Season

Table host

Jean LaRose

CEO

ASD (Animiki See Distribution)

Table host

Brian Blazik

Head of Bell Media Sales, Global AVOD & FAST

Bell Media - Sphere Abacus

Table host

Kim Hobbs

VP, Distribution & Sales

Lionsgate Canada

Table host

Doug Smith

SVP Streaming & Content Licensing - Paramount Global - Canada

Paramount

Table host

Rekha Shah

VP, Television Licensing for Paramount Global Content Distribution

Paramount

Speaking

Keith Le Goy

Chairman

Sony Pictures Television

Michael Schneider

TV Editor

Variety

Discover the strategic blueprint behind K-content’s global rise with leaders from Korea’s top media companies including CJ ENM, LG U+, and Mr. Romance.
This session explores how Korean content is evolving from regional entertainment to a global cultural force—powered by systematic talent development, strategic platform expansion, and innovative IP-based storytelling.
Executives and creators will share concrete methodologies for forming global partnerships, scaling content across borders, and building sustainable content ecosystems.
Featuring real-world case studies and successful collaboration models with international creators and distributors, the session will culminate in an exclusive project reveal that signals the next wave of K-content’s global journey.
Join us for actionable insights and partnership opportunities that illuminate how Korea’s most ambitious content projects are shaping the global media landscape.

Speaking

Panelist

Jungwoo Lee

Head of Mobile TV Service

LG Uplus

Panelist

Gowoon Jeon

Writer/Director

Panelist

Sehee Jang

Head of Marketing

CJ ENM

Jordan Pinto

North American Editor

C21 Media

Panelist

Dae Hyung Lim

Writer/Director

Panelist

June Park

CBO / CSO

Mr. Romance

Celebrating 25 years of creating more than 260 hours of content that creates change, Eagle Vision's body of work includes the Oscar-winning feature Capote, the international hit factual television series Ice Road Truckers (History/AETV International), the drama series Burden of Truth and Skymed, the preeminent residential school film We Were Children, world-class children and youth programming including the Parents' Choice Gold Medal Award-winning Tipi Tales, and the Banff Rockie-nominated Reclaim(ed) for Snapchat. Their latest feature Deaner ’89 (for which Eagle Vision partners Lisa Meeches, C.M., O.M., Kyle Irving, O.M., and Rebecca Gibson, O.M. were nominated for Indiescreen's Established Producer Award) is currently nominated for 7 Canadian Screen Awards. This panel features key team members, who will share their plans for the future, including the launch of a slate of new companies, which feature a new content brand and a new business affairs company. They’ll also share how you can work with them.

Speaking

Rebecca Gibson

Co-Owner

Eagle Vision

Lisa Meeches

Founder and Executive Producer

Eagle Vision

Hannah Johnson

Producer

Eagle Vision

Kyle Irving

Co-Owner & Executive Producer

Eagle Vision

Dinae Robinson

Head of Content

Maxine Bruce

Producer

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

These 30-minute informal networking sessions are designed to connect you with top directors and showrunners in a small-group setting. Discuss creative challenges, learn about where to find inspiration and receive valuable career advice from leading creative professionals. Sign up in advance; a maximum of 6 delegates at each table. 

Attendees who secured a spot in advance should arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. There is a 5 minute grace period. If you show up more than 5 minutes after your session start time you will lose your spot.  

If you did not secure a spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 20-30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Speaking

Table host

Arshad Khan

Writer/Director

Gray Matter Productions

Table host

Alison Fairweather Murray

Writer, Director & Producer

Hellhound Productions CMPA, DGC

Table host

Ashley Michel Hoban

Showrunner & Executive Producer

Table host

Jennifer Whalen

Showrunner & Executive Producer

CBC Media Center

Table host

Wendy Hill-Tout

Producer, Writer, Director

Voice Pictures Inc.

Table host

Tassie Cameron

Executive Producer

Cameron Pictures

Table host

Sarah Haasz

Founder

Pillango Productions

Table host

Daniel Cerone

Showrunner & Executive Producer

Table host

Joel Cohen

Executive Producer and Writer

Grainey Pictures

Table host

Sid Santiago Zanforlin

Director & Writer (Banff Diversity of Voices Recipient)

Goggle Boy Films

Table host

Robert Cohen

Director

Grainey Pictures

Table host

Adrienne Mitchell

Owner, Director, Executive Producer

BentFrame Film & TV

Table host

Roma Roth

Showrunner & Executive Producer

Reel World Management

Top global media executives take the stage to unpack the forces transforming the industry. From rapid tech evolution and platform convergence to shifting audience behaviors and the evolving landscape of content financing, these leaders will share how they’re adapting, thriving, and shaping the future of media.

Speaking

John Morayniss

Co-Founder & CEO

Blink49 Studios

Prentiss Fraser

President

Fox Entertainment Global

Bing Chen

Executive Chairman & CEO

Gold House

Christian Vesper

CEO, Global Drama & Film

FremantleMedia

Kevin Johnson

CEO, WPP Media Canada and President, WPP Canada

WPP Media

Mikey O'Connell

Writer & Editor

The Hollywood Reporter

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates.. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

Speed Meetings are a fantastic opportunity for content creators and producers to meet one-on-one with leading development executives, distributors, programmers and funders. This is your opportunity to connect with partners who can help take your screen-based project to the next stage. This program has facilitated thousands of partnerships and has led to millions of dollars in new content. One-on-one meetings are 8-minutes long. 

Attendees who secured a meeting in advance should arrive at the session room 30 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. Showing up late for your scheduled time slot will result in losing your spot to the wait line.

If you did not secure a meeting in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Speed Meetings are on the Conference Centre side of the hotel, on the 2nd floor. Give yourself extra time to make your way over from the main lobby of the hotel so that you are not late for your scheduled meetings.

*This session is for SCRIPTED pitches only. Please research each meeting host to be sure your pitches fit their remit.

Speaking

Table host

Lauren Whitelaw

Head of Programming

OUTtv Network Inc

Table host

Effi Eustace

SVP, Sales, The Americas

Incendo

Table host

Tana Nugent Jamieson

Executive Vice President of Creative Affairs

A+E Global Media

Table host

Kim Ball

Chief Content Officer

Super Channel

Table host

Lea Marin

Director of Development, Drama

CBC

Table host

Adam Garnet Jones

Director of TV Content and Special Events

APTN

Table host

Vanessa Case

VP Content, Paramount+ and Pluto TV, Paramount Canada

Paramount

Table host

Laura Mae Harding

Commissioning Editor for International Co-Productions

ZDF

Table host

Sharon Stevens

VP Programming

Hollywood Suite Inc

Table host

Andrew Kelly

Vice President, Scripted Development, Television

Lionsgate Canada

Table host

Mike McShane

Director, Digital Development, Original Programming

Bell Media

Table host

Chris Bell

Manager, Content

Netflix

Table host

Cara Nye

Director, Content Development & Production

AMI-tv

Table host

Kirsten Hurd

Commissioning Editor

TVOkids

Table host

Jarmo Lampela

Head of Drama

YLE Finnish Broadcasting Company

Table host

Greig Dymond

Director of Development, Comedy

CBC

Table host

Robert Franke

Vice President Drama

ZDF Studios GmbH

Speaking

Taye Diggs

Actor, Executive Producer

Traci Melchor

Senior Correspondent

Etalk

Speaking

Anjali Sud

CEO

Tubi

Elaine Low

Staff Writer

The Ankler

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

Speed Meetings are a fantastic opportunity for content creators and producers to meet one-on-one with leading development executives, distributors, programmers and funders. This is your opportunity to connect with partners who can help take your screen-based project to the next stage. This program has facilitated thousands of partnerships and has led to millions of dollars in new content. One-on-one meetings are 8-minutes long. 

Attendees who secured a meeting in advance should arrive at the session room 30 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. Showing up late for your scheduled time slot will result in losing your spot to the wait line.

If you did not secure a meeting in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Speed Meetings are on the Conference Centre side of the hotel, on the 2nd floor. Give yourself extra time to make your way over from the main lobby of the hotel so that you are not late for your scheduled meetings.

*This session is for UNSCRIPTED / FACTUAL / DOC pitches only. Please research each meeting host to be sure your pitches fit their remit.

Speaking

Table host

Sierra Cowan

Executive Producer

BYUtv

Table host

Vanessa Case

VP Content, Paramount+ and Pluto TV, Paramount Canada

Paramount

Table host

Jolise Beaton

Director of Business Affairs

Audible Inc.

Table host

Kerry Appleyard

SVP, Scripted and Unscripted, Television

Lionsgate Canada

Table host

Mike McShane

Director, Digital Development, Original Programming

Bell Media

Table host

Jessica Schmiedchen

Director of Development, Unscripted Content

CBC

Table host

Marianne Lambert

Directrice Principale Contenus & Senior Director of Content

TFO

Table host

Cara Nye

Director, Content Development & Production

AMI-tv

Table host

Michael Gelman

SVP, Acquisitions & Co-Productions

A+E Global Media

Table host

Lisa Ducharme

Director of Online Content & Deliverables

APTN

Table host

Ricky Cooper

Commissioning Editor, Factual Entertainment & Events

BBC

Speaking

Chuck Lorre

Creator, Executive Producer, Writer

Chuck Lorre Productions

Michael Schneider

TV Editor

Variety

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

These 30-minute informal sessions are your opportunity to connect you with unscripted broadcasters, streamers, producers and development executives. These sessions are opportunities to build your network, discuss trends and spark potential partnerships in a small group setting. Sign up in advance; a maximum of 6 delegates at each table. 

Attendees who secured a spot in advance for Meet a Scripted Executive should arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. There is a 5 minute grace period. If you show up more than 5 minutes after your session start time you will lose your spot.  

If you did not secure a spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 20-30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Speaking

Table host

Michela Di Mondo

EVP Distribution, International

Fremantle Canada

Table host

Adam Steinman

EVP, Global Formats & Acquisitions

Blink49 Studios

Table host

Moritz Polter

Executive Producer & Managing Director

Windlight Pictures

Table host

Rob Kenneally

Agent

CAA Creative Artists Agency

Table host

Jarmo Lampela

Head of Drama

YLE Finnish Broadcasting Company

Table host

Morad Koufane

Director of International and Young Adult Drama

France Televisions

Table host

Jolise Beaton

Director of Business Affairs

Audible Inc.

Table host

Lawrence Szabo

Executive Vice President, U.S. Content Distribution

BBC Studios

Table host

Lea Marin

Director of Development, Drama

CBC

Table host

Carlyn Klebuc

General Manager, Original Programming

Bell Media

Table host

Rachel Goldstein-Couto

Head of Development, Original Programming

Bell Media

Table host

Adam Garnet Jones

Director of TV Content and Special Events

APTN

Table host

Eric Phillips

Vice President, Drama Development

Sony Pictures Television

Table host

Kristen Venter

Creative Executive, Disney

The Walt Disney Company

Table host

Greig Dymond

Director of Development, Comedy

CBC

Table host

Larry Grimaldi

SVP, Creative Affairs & Current Programming

FOX Entertainment Studios

Get ready to Rockie! Join us for the inaugural Rockie Awards Super Show. We have combined the juried Rockie Awards International Program Competition with the prestigious Rockies Gala Honours that will be presented throughout the night.

Seating is first come, first served. Join a table where beverages, bubbles and gourmet delights will be provided. Toast the best and brightest of the entertainment industry!

All BANFF delegates are welcome. Attire: Cocktail

*Arrive early as space is limited. The show starts at 5:30 sharp!

Join us to celebrate the 46th annual Rockie Awards at BANFF, recognizing outstanding content, talent and executives from across the globe. Meet this year's Rockie Awards nominees from 22 countries and 30 categories, representing the best in international productions. Watch the live show as we reveal the winners. Be entertained and inspired as we also honour prestigious talent with the Rockies Gala Honours throughout the night.

All BANFF delegates are welcome to the Rockie Awards. Seating is first-come, first-served. Attire: Cocktail.

Speaking

Host

Queen Priyanka

Singer, Television Personality & Drag Queen

Honoree

Stephan James

Actor, Producer

Honoree

Phil Rosenthal

Award-winning Creator, Executive Producer and Host

Netflix

Honoree

Hans Zimmer

Multiple Academy Award-winning composer, Co-Founder

Bleeding Fingers

The Rockie Awards ballroom will be transformed into a late night dance party. Think award show after party, bring your badge for entry to win prizes, network and have fun!
Food, drinks & giveaways
GRAND PRIZE provided by: Air Canada

*Late night buses provided on our regular shuttle route.

You are invited to breakfast and great conversation by A+E to kick off the day! Unscripted content remains one of the most dynamic and influential forces in television, and these are the executives driving its evolution. In this must-attend session, top decision makers share how they’re approaching creative, scaling franchises, responding to shifting audience appetites, and making the big bets that define the genre. Whether you're pitching or producing, this is your insider access to where Unscripted is headed—and what it takes to get greenlit.

*Session starts at 9:00am

Speaking

Anaïs Baker

Head of International Formats

Amazon MGM Studios

Allison Wallach

Head of Unscripted Programming

FOX Entertainment Studios

Sharon Scott

President, A+E Factual Studios

A+E Factual Studios

Tara Long

Global President, Unscripted Television

Blink49 Studios

Michela Di Mondo

EVP Distribution, International

Fremantle Canada

Drop-in on site - no previous sign up required.

These popular 45-minute informal sessions are a great way to connect with the right people and add to your network. Hosted by industry experts, join these guided conversations to gain insight into specific topics including treaties and co-productions, financing, AI, sustainability and more! Up to 6 delegates can join a topic table at one time; half way through the 45 minute session a bell will ring inviting delegates to move to another table as space allows. 

Space is filled and managed on a first come first served basis until we hit capacity.

Speaking

Table host

Kirsten Hurd

Commissioning Editor

TVOkids

TOPIC TABLE: Making Entertaining & Educational Shows that Kids Actually Watch!

Table host

Doug Smith

SVP Streaming & Content Licensing - Paramount Global - Canada

Paramount

TOPIC TABLE: Pitch Perfect: Mastering the Global Mindset

Table host

Crystal Dubois

Special Projects Lead

APTN

TOPIC TABLE: Reality and Lifestyle Programming at APTN

Table host

Adam Harman

SVP Original Content and Acquisition

Scripps Co

TOPIC TABLE: Scripted & Unscripted Co-Productions

Table host

Fraser Ash

Producer

Rhombus Media

TOPIC TABLE: International Treaty Co-Productions (co-hosted with Kevin Krikst)

Table host

Kevin Krikst

Producer

Rhombus Media Inc

TOPIC TABLE: International Treaty Co-Productions (co-hosted with Fraser Ash)

Table host

Lisa Ducharme

Director of Online Content & Deliverables

APTN

TOPIC TABLE: Exploring Unscripted Trends with Canada's Indigenous Broadcaster

Table host

Mélanie Ratté

Vice-President, International Distribution and Business Development

Zone3

TOPIC TABLE: Creating & Distributing Unscripted Formats: Trends & Challenges

Table host

Sarah Haasz

Founder

Pillango Productions

TOPIC TABLE: What’s Your Story? – Framing your story for the screen

Table host

Frédéric Pittoors D'Haveskercke

Business Affairs

Baradal

TOPIC TABLE: Working with European Commissioners & Producers

Marcia Douglas

Executive Director

Bell Fund

TOPIC TABLE: Accessing Canadian Media Funding

Table host

Daniel Mekinda

EVP, Motion Entertainment Canada

GroupM Canada Inc.

TOPIC TABLE: Agency and Brand Entertainment Financing – Boom or Bust?

Table host

Catherine Warren

President

FanTrust

TOPIC TABLE: New revenues from AI for TV

Table host

Ira Levy

Managing Partner

Spike & Sadie Media

TOPIC TABLE: Live Action & Animation Co-productions

Table host

Dayna Zipursky

Executive Vice President

NESHAMA Entertainment

TOPIC TABLE: Financing in Canada

Table host

Wadooah Wali

Co-Founder, Chief Strategy Officer & Executive Producer

New Canvas

TOPIC TABLE: Cross Borders. Cross Platforms. Create Hits.

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

Speed Meetings are a fantastic opportunity for content creators and producers to meet one-on-one with leading development executives, distributors, programmers and funders. This is your opportunity to connect with partners who can help take your screen-based project to the next stage. This program has facilitated thousands of partnerships and has led to millions of dollars in new content. One-on-one meetings are 8-minutes long. 

Attendees who secured a meeting in advance should arrive at the session room 30 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. Showing up late for your scheduled time slot will result in losing your spot to the wait line.

If you did not secure a meeting in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Speed Meetings are on the Conference Centre side of the hotel, on the 2nd floor. Give yourself extra time to make your way over from the main lobby of the hotel so that you are not late for your scheduled meetings.

*This session is for SCRIPTED pitches only. Please research each meeting host to be sure your pitches fit their remit.

Speaking

Table host

Jolise Beaton

Director of Business Affairs

Audible Inc.

Table host

Lea Marin

Director of Development, Drama

CBC

Table host

Liz Wise Lyall

SVP, Scripted Development & Programming, Lifetime

Lifetime

Table host

Kerry Appleyard

SVP, Scripted and Unscripted, Television

Lionsgate Canada

Table host

Andrew Kelly

Vice President, Scripted Development, Television

Lionsgate Canada

Table host

Sarah Fowlie

Head of Production, Original Programming

Bell Media

Table host

Robert Franke

Vice President Drama

ZDF Studios GmbH

Table host

Eric Phillips

Vice President, Drama Development

Sony Pictures Television

Table host

Chris Bell

Manager, Content

Netflix

Table host

Morad Koufane

Director of International and Young Adult Drama

France Televisions

Table host

Drew Mullin

Executive in Charge of Production, Children's Content

CBC

Table host

Michaela Qvale

Director

Miramax

Join us for a career retrospective of Stephan James, where he'll discuss his significant contributions to the entertainment industry.  

Stephan James will be interviewed by Tom Power as a special taping of Q with Tom Power, to be broadcast on CBC at a later date.

Speaking

Tom Power

Host, Q with Tom Power

CBC Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

Stephan James

Actor, Producer

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates.There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

These 30-minute informal sessions are your opportunity to connect you with unscripted broadcasters, streamers, producers and development executives. These sessions are opportunities to build your network, discuss trends and spark potential partnerships in a small group setting. Sign up in advance; a maximum of 6 delegates at each table. 

Attendees who secured a spot in advance for Meet an Unscripted Executive should arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. There is a 5 minute grace period. If you show up more than 5 minutes after your session start time you will lose your spot.  

If you did not secure a spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 20-30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Speaking

Table host

Lauren Whitelaw

Head of Programming

OUTtv Network Inc

Table host

Sierra Cowan

Executive Producer

BYUtv

Table host

Allison Brough

SVP, Unscripted Development

Blink49 Studios

Table host

Catherine Casey

Senior Creative Executive Global Unscripted Formats

Amazon Studios

Table host

Tom Miyauchi

VP of Nippon TV International, Head of Nippon TV LA Business Office

Nippon TV

Table host

Adam Steinman

EVP, Global Formats & Acquisitions

Blink49 Studios

Table host

Michael Gelman

SVP, Acquisitions & Co-Productions

A+E Global Media

Table host

Nicole Hamilton

EVP, English Content

Attraction

Table host

Heather Williamson

Senior Development Executive, Original Programming, Factual & Reality

Bell Media

Table host

Brad Bernstein

Chief Content Officer

Texas Crew Productions / Asylum Entertainment Group Canada

Table host

Natasha Negrea

Head of Programming

TVO

Table host

Samantha De France

Senior Production Executive

Amazon MGM Studios

Table host

Jennifer Skoda

Director, International Content

Disney Entertainment Television

Table host

Drew Mullin

Executive in Charge of Production, Children's Content

CBC

From headline-making acquisitions to quieter but powerful investments in slates, talent vehicles, and IP - hear from the dealmakers, investors and strategists shaping the content industry. Some players are acquiring indies the traditional way, others are backing shows directly or investing in creator-led ventures. This panel unpacks how to create value in content businesses in a rapidly changing international marketplace.

Speaking

Cheryl Lynch

EVP, Head of Business Affairs & Scripted Formats

Sony Pictures Television

Sam Sniderman

President

Electric Palm Media

Jonathan Ford

Managing Director

Sphere Abacus

Shawn Efran

CEO

Bright North Studios

This year, YouTube celebrates 20 years of empowering creators and reshaping the entertainment landscape. As Variety recently highlighted, YouTube has become a cultural force, bridging the gap between digital creators and Hollywood. 

Today, creators are not just building audiences; they’re building empires. They’re forging new paths to success by owning their narratives, connecting directly with fans, and crafting authentic content that resonates on a global scale. Join us for a panel discussion where we’ll discuss the future of entertainment, and how creators are evolving the landscape of how entertainment is made.

Speaking

Panelist

Jacob Moncrief

Chief Operating Officer, Good Mythical Morning

Panelist

Jeenie Weenie

YouTuber

Panelist

Alexandra Gater

Home Decor YouTuber

Speaking

Elder Tracey Stevens

Elder, Stoney Nakoda Nation

Who makes a film recognizable in Canada’s feature film industry? This panel rethinks the conversations around visibility and audience-building amidst the rise of influencers, international stars and the current context of the U.S.

Speaking

Barry Hertz

Film & Deputy Arts Editor

The Globe and Mail

Glenn Cockburn

President

Meridian Artists Inc

Tonya Williams

Founder & Executive Director

Reelworld Screen Institute

Richard Jean-Baptiste

VP, Business Innovation & Executive Producer

Attraction

Kyle Irving

Co-Owner & Executive Producer

Eagle Vision

Indigenous producers present their scripted comedy projects and receive questions, comments, and expressions of interest from leading buyers, co-production partners, and funders.

Speaking

Expert Commentator

Mike Omelus

Executive Director Content & Strategy

APTN

Host

Michelle Thrush

Actor/Host

Actor/Host

Expert Commentator

Carlyn Klebuc

General Manager, Original Programming

Bell Media

Expert Commentator

Adam Steinman

EVP, Global Formats & Acquisitions

Blink49 Studios

Pitcher

Roxann Whitebean

Writer, Director, Producer

Whitebean Media Arts

Pitcher

Barbara Hager

Producer/Director

ACIMOW MEDIA LTD.

Pitcher

Darcy Waite

Producer

Turtle Mountain Media

Pitcher

Christopher White

Director

Expert Commentator

Ariel Yang

Creative Producer

New Metric Media

As the landscape for premium content continues to evolve under mounting financial and market pressures, getting major projects greenlit has never been more complex. This panel brings together international commissioners, producers, and financiers to explore how ambitious productions are being developed, funded, and brought to life in today’s rapidly shifting environment. From aligning with global commissioning strategies and navigating pre-sales, to structuring international co-productions and capitalizing on the demand for local-language content, these executives will share their bold strategies and creative solutions.

Speaking

John Elmes

Deputy News Editor & International Editor

Broadcast

Jens Richter

CEO Commercial and International

Fremantle Media Limited

Justin Stockman

VP Content Development and Programming

Bell Media

Morad Koufane

Director of International and Young Adult Drama

France Televisions

Laura Mae Harding

Commissioning Editor for International Co-Productions

ZDF

Alon Aranya

Producer & Writer

Paper Plane Productions

Moritz Polter

Executive Producer & Managing Director

Windlight Pictures

Indigenous producers present their unscripted/documentary projects and receive questions, comments, and expressions of interest from leading buyers, co-production partners, and funders.

Speaking

Expert Commentator

Nanci MacLean

Chief Operating Officer

MEM

Expert Commentator

Leena Minifie

Producer & Founder

Stories First Productions

Expert Commentator

Jessica Schmiedchen

Director of Development, Unscripted Content

CBC

Expert Commentator

Lisa Ducharme

Director of Online Content & Deliverables

APTN

Host

Michelle Thrush

Actor/Host

Actor/Host

Pitcher

Denis Paquette

Filmmaker/Producer

RealWorld Media Inc

Pitcher

Claudia Skunk

Emerging Producer

Makawa Creative

Pitcher

Damien Eagle Bear

Producer

Producer

Pitcher

Lewis Cardinal

CEO, Producer, & Chief Storyteller

Red Earth Blue Sky Productions

Pitcher

Lolly de Jonge

Executive Producer

IndigeKin Productions Inc

Indigenous producers present their Scripted Drama projects and receive questions, comments, and expressions of interest from leading buyers, co-production partners, and funders.

Speaking

Host

Michelle Thrush

Actor/Host

Actor/Host

Expert Commentator

Tana Nugent Jamieson

Executive Vice President of Creative Affairs

A+E Global Media

Expert Commentator

Kyle Irving

Co-Owner & Executive Producer

Eagle Vision

Expert Commentator

Adam Garnet Jones

Director of TV Content and Special Events

APTN

Expert Commentator

Hannah Pillemer

Executive Vice President, Head of Scripted

FOX Entertainment

Pitcher

Mike Gosselin

Writer/Director/Producer/Journalist

Really Good Stories Inc.

Pitcher

Tim Riedel

.

Michif Koonteur

Pitcher

Alexander Lasheras

Filmmaker

Soler Pictures Inc.

Pitcher

Shelby Mitchell-Adams

Owner

Writer, Director

As entertainment becomes increasingly global, BBC Studios and BritBox are leading the way with bold, global storytelling for a changing world, agile dealmaking, and strategic co-productions. This panel explores their innovative approach to content creation, global sales, and serving audiences worldwide in a fast-evolving media landscape.

Speaking

Michael Schneider

TV Editor

Variety

Robert Schildhouse

President, BritBox North America and General Manager

BritBox

Lawrence Szabo

Executive Vice President, U.S. Content Distribution

BBC Studios

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

These 30-minute, informal networking sessions are your chance to connect with top literary agents, managers and entertainment lawyers in a small-group setting. It’s the perfect opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and build relationships with agents and fellow festival delegates. Sign up in advance; a maximum of 6 delegates at each table. 

Attendees who secured a spot in advance should arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. There is a 5 minute grace period. If you show up more than 5 minutes after your session start time you will lose your spot. 

If you did not secure a spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 20-30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Speaking

Table host

Andrew McCann Smith

Lit Agent / Director of Content

Play Management

Table host

Angelika Heim

Attorney/Partner

Stohn Hay Cafazzo Heim Finlay LLP

Table host

Craig Brody

Manager/Producer

Map Point

Table host

Rob Kenneally

Agent

CAA Creative Artists Agency

Table host

Jennifer Hollyer

Agent

The Jennifer Hollyer Agency

Table host

Juliet Smith

Partner

Dentons Canada LLP

Table host

Mark Edwards

Entertainment Lawyer, Managing Partner

Edwards Creative Law

Table host

Courtenay Bainbridge

Agent

Meridian Artists Inc

Table host

Ilana Miller

Literary Agent, Co-owner

The Jennifer Hollyer Agency

Table host

Kerry Ball

Literary Agent and Head of Development

Meridian Artists Inc

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates.There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

Pitch your projects directly to  producer development executives. This is your chance to showcase your ideas, build relationships, and explore potential collaborations. One-on-one meetings are 8-minutes long.

Attendees who secured a meeting in advance should arrive at the session room 30 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. Showing up late for your scheduled time slot will result in losing your spot to the wait line.

If you did not secure a Production Partners spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Production Partners is on the Conference Centre side of the hotel, on the 2nd floor. Give yourself extra time to make your way over from the main lobby of the hotel so that you are not late for your scheduled meeting.

Speaking

Table host

Benjamin Field

Founder & Executive Producer

Deep Fusion Films

Table host

Kathleen Meek

VP, Development

Film Forge

Table host

Richard Jean-Baptiste

VP, Business Innovation & Executive Producer

Attraction

Table host

Brad Bernstein

Chief Content Officer

Texas Crew Productions / Asylum Entertainment Group Canada

Table host

Allison Brough

SVP, Unscripted Development

Blink49 Studios

Table host

Marie-Hélène Taschereau

Vice President, Scripted Content and Partner

KOTV

Table host

Catherine Casey

Senior Creative Executive Global Unscripted Formats

Amazon Studios

Table host

Sam Linton

VP, Production and Development, Global Media

Blue Ant Media

Table host

Burrad Marsh

Consulting Head of U.S. Series Development

Fiasco Global Media

Table host

Shane Corkery

Executive Producer/Partner

Counterfeit Pictures

Table host

Larry Bass

CEO

ShinAwiL

Table host

Alon Aranya

Producer & Writer

Paper Plane Productions

Table host

Leena Minifie

Producer & Founder

Stories First Productions

Table host

Amy Cameron

Executive Producer

Cameron Pictures

Table host

Fraser Ash

Producer

Rhombus Media

Table host

Larry Grimaldi

SVP, Creative Affairs & Current Programming

FOX Entertainment Studios

Table host

Robert Franke

Vice President Drama

ZDF Studios GmbH

Table host

Graham Ludlow

Head of Development and Production

Incendo

Table host

Jesse Ikeman

Chief Creative Officer

Vortex Media

Table host

Tina Apostolopoulos-Moniz

VP, Unscripted

Lark Productions

Join the Alberta Film and Television industry to make connections! Alberta creators, regional film commissions and key industry partners will gather to celebrate the growth and development of the industry in Alberta.

Speaking

Phil Rosenthal

Award-winning Creator, Executive Producer and Host

Netflix

Tom Power

Host, Q with Tom Power

CBC Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

Advance sign up is required through BANFFXchange, see networking page for signup dates. There is a wait line on site if any openings become available.

These 30-minute informal sessions are designed to connect you with industry decision makers from studios, streamers, networks and production companies. These sessions are opportunities to build your network, discuss trends and spark potential partnerships in a small group setting. Sign up in advance; a maximum of 6 delegates at each table. 

Attendees who secured a spot in advance should arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes prior to the session start time to check in with the room monitor and get processed. There is a 5 minute grace period. If you show up more than 5 minutes after your session start time you will lose your spot. 

If you did not secure a spot in advance, we recommend showing up to the session room 20-30 minutes early to join the wait line. The wait line operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Speaking

Table host

Rachel Nelson

VP, Original Programming & Head of Corus Studios

Corus Entertainment Inc