In English

Open to all public

Free Entrance

The panel brings together key voices from the UK and Lebanon’s film ecosystems to explore how partnerships drive industry growth, technological advancement, and creative sustainability. It draws on the success of the AI in Film project supported by the British Council’s International Collaboration Grant, a pioneering example of how shared expertise and values can generate meaningful outcomes, from new productions to ethical frameworks for emerging technologies.

The conversation bridges policy, production, and innovation, looking at how institutions, funds, and professionals can jointly shape the future of filmmaking in both countries.

Participants:

• James Weddup : Representing the UK’s national film body and its broader network (British Film Institute, Film London, Creative UK, BAFTA), he will discuss the UK’s evolving film ecosystem, co-production incentives, and strategic approaches to supporting international partnerships.

• Maya de Freige – Founder and Director, Fondation Liban Cinema (FLC) : Sharing insights on Lebanon’s first cinema development fund and its role in building local capacity, policy advocacy, and partnerships with UK institutions.

• Jordan McGarry – Director, Film London : Presenting the Film London perspective on innovation and digital transformation, with emphasis on the AI in Film collaboration, how it opened new avenues for co-creation and ethical dialogue.

• Karim Nasr – Project Manager, Fondation Liban Cinema : Offering an operational and creative perspective on implementing the AI in Film partnership: from workshops to film production, and its ripple effects on the Lebanese film community.

Moderator: Eneni Bambara-Abban, British Council – expert in film, technology, and creative industries development.