We are thrilled to announce the return of Iris Industry Day 2025 after a short break.
The Industry Day will be unapologetic in its commitment to sharing best practices, challenging the issues faced by the sector, and embracing the opportunities for success. As we prepare to celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’re proud to bring together an extraordinary line-up of industry leaders, innovators, and creators.
GET INDUSTRY PASS £50
Find Full Programme for the day below:
10am - Opening Keynote Speech with Dawn Airey + Q&A
A veteran of the industry having worked in television, media and technology for 30 years, Dawn Airey opens our Industry Day as keynote speaker. With a career spanning leadership roles at Channel 4, Channel 5, BskyB, and ITV, Dawn has been a driving force in shaping British broadcasting. Widely recognised as one of the most visible lesbians in UK media, she brings a unique perspective on representation, inclusion, and the future of queer storytelling.
11am - Shorts Success
This session explores how to maximise your film’s impact – from budgeting and sustainability to story, festival strategy, distribution, and awards eligibility.
Speakers include:
- Alice Cabanas (She/Her) – Head of BFI Network
- Daisy Leigh-Phippard (She/Her) – BAFTA albert
- Katie Bignell (She/Her) – Festival Formula
- Dima Hamdan (She/Her) – Writer / Director
Chair: Tracy Spottiswoode
12pm - Reaching Your Audience (Panel + Breakout Sessions)
This session explores why identifying your audience should start before you go into production. Followed by breakout sessions for focused advice, this is essential for filmmakers who want to plan smarter and reach further.
Speakers Include:
- Tejinder Jouhal(She/Her) – HanWay Films
- Tom Abell (He/Him)- Peccadillo Pictures
- Adam Silver (He/Him) -TLA Entertainment Group
- Katie Bignell (She/Her) – Festival Formula
- Russell Webber (He/Him) – Rapt Films International
Chair:
2:30 pm - Shorts to Features
This session explores how to navigate that transition. Hear from filmmakers and industry experts who’ve made the jump, and get practical advice on turning short-form success into long-form opportunity.
Speakers Include:
- Alice Cabañas (She/Her) – Head of BFI NETWORK
- Rohan Kanawade (He/Him) – Writer / Director
- April Kelley (She/Her) – Producer
Chair:
3:30pm - Self-financing & Micro-features
This session dives into the realities of self-financing and creating micro-budget films. Hear from filmmakers who’ve made it work and discover how constraints can fuel creativity, not limit it.
Speakers Include:
- Rajdeep Choudhury (He/Him) – Actor / Writer
- Neil David (He/Him) – Writer / Director
- Rachel Dax (She/Her) – Filmmaker & Novelist
- Lloyd Eyre-Morgan (He/Him) – Actor / Writer / Director
Chair:
4:30pm - Authenticity Panel
This session explores how the industry is evolving and how creators can craft truly authentic LGBTQ+ narratives that resonate with both local and global audiences. Join filmmakers and industry voices as they discuss representation, responsibility, and the power of lived experience in shaping stories that connect and endure.
Speakers Include:
- Luke Oliveira-Davies (He/Him) – Queer Filmmakers Network
- Daisy Leigh-Phippard (She/Her) – BAFTA albert
- Matthew Jacobs-Morgan (He/Him) – Actor / Writer / Director
- Dylan Holloway (He/Him) – Musician
Chair: Michael Karam, Bulldozer Films
5:30pm - Networking reception
Wrap up Industry Day with drinks, conversation, and new connections at this exclusive Networking Reception presented by Bulldozer Films and Ffilm Cymru. This is your opportunity to meet fellow filmmakers, producers, and creatives shaping the future of film.
What is the Iris Industry Day?
The Iris Industry Day is a key event for media professionals focused on content creation. It brings together directors, producers, writers, performers, and other key industry players to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the media landscape. This full-day event provides a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and professional development, fostering a community of likeminded individuals passionate about the future of media.
What Can You Expect from the Industry Day?
The Iris Industry Day will feature a keynote speech, panel discussions, and breakout sessions. The event is designed to be interactive, with ample networking opportunities throughout the day.
- Panel Sessions & Presentations: Industry leaders and experts will share insights on current and future trends in content creation, production techniques, and distribution strategies.
- Breakout Sessions: Smaller, more intimate group discussions will provide deeper dives into specialized topics and foster meaningful collaboration.
- Networking Opportunities: From the welcome breakfast to lunch and evening drinks, you’ll have plenty of chances to connect with peers, collaborators, and potential partners.
Get Industry Pass
When & Where?
The Iris Industry Day will take place on Wednesday, 15 October 2025, during the 19th Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Cardiff. The event will be hosted at Stadium Plaza, home to the Vue Cinema where most of the festival’s screenings and events will take place. Following the Industry Day, the Iris Prize Best British Day will be held on Friday, 17 October 2025.
FAQs
Who Should Attend?
The Iris Industry Day is designed for individuals and companies involved in creating moving image content and specifically those who have completed their first feature project and individuals who have made at least a few short films.
Whether you’re a producer, director, writer, performer, or stakeholder in the media industry, this event is a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve and collaborate with peers and experts.
Representing an organisation or attending as a group?
Get in touch with adnan@irisprize.org for more information on group bookings.
Is the Iris Industry Day Relevant to Students?
Yes! We believe in fostering the next generation of content creators. A limited number of student passes will be available, ensuring that young professionals can gain invaluable insights and network with industry leaders. A dedicated host will be on hand to support students and help them make the most of their experience.
Interested in a student industry pass?
Email adnan@irisprize.org for more details and booking info
Is the Iris Industry Day Just for LGBTQ+ People?
While the Iris Industry Day is part of the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, it’s not exclusive to the LGBTQ+ community. The event focuses on mainstream media content creation, with LGBTQ+ projects serving as examples of innovation and inclusion. This is a day for everyone interested in media production, regardless of background or identity.
What Do I Get as a Delegate?
As a delegate, you’ll have access to the keynote speech, panel discussions, and breakout sessions. You’ll also enjoy networking opportunities with fellow professionals throughout the day.
Your delegate pass includes:
- Access to all sessions and speakers
- Breakfast, lunch and tea/coffee breaks
- Access to the industry hub (3rd floor)
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders
Get Industry Pass
Why Attend the Iris Industry Day?
To access an event which is diverse and interactive, that reflects the evolving needs of the media industry. Whether you’re based in the UK or internationally, the Iris Industry Day is your chance to learn from the best, share your own experiences, and build valuable connections.
Join us and experience Cardiff Charm and be a part of the future of content creation.
