WOMEN IN FILM

Proudly Sponsored By

Date: Sunday, June 29th - 11am-3pm
Location: The Vibrant Vine Winery - 3240 Pooley Rd, Kelowna
Price: OSIF Members - FREE! ~ General Admission - $15

This event is for female identifying creatives only.  Sorry gents!

Minors with an accompanied adult can attend for free.

OSIF's Women in Film Event is a powerful gathering dedicated to supporting and uplifting female-identifying creatives pursuing careers in filmmaking. This event features a panel of accomplished women from across the film industry who will share their stories, insights, and hard-won lessons.

Centered around the theme of work-life balance, the conversation will explore how to prioritize mental and physical well-being in an industry known for its long hours and intense demands.

This is more than just a networking event — it’s a safe, inclusive space for open dialogue about the unique challenges women face in a traditionally male-dominated field, and how we can collectively create a healthier, more equitable future in film.

Bar Service will be provided by Vibrant Vine

There will be live music at the winery after the Women in Film Event.
Attendees are welcome to stay :)

Panelist Bios

Donna Brayshaw

Hi there, My name is Donna Brayshaw. I’ve worked in film for over 15 years, starting at an age when most people retire.  Most of my work has been as a Props Master, however I have also provided services as a Production Designer and Set Decorator.  I have had the opportunity to work on many series for ABC, CW, and Disney and Independent film makers. Before film,  I served in the Canadian Armed Forces and worked in Health Care for over 30 years.  I am honoured to share my experiences with a new generation of female film makers. 

Paula Elle

Hi, my name is Paula Elle. I began my journey in film in 2004 as an actor. By 2008, I transitioned into background and stand-in work to better understand the filmmaking process from the ground up. That hands-on experience sparked my love for directing. In 2014, I began shooting short films, and by 2021, I directed my first long-form MOW in Kelowna — a project that won me over so completely, I decided to move here. I'm thrilled to be here today to talk film, champion women, and drink wine — ideally all at once.

Kennedy Rowe

Hi, my name is Kennedy Rowe, and I’m thrilled to be part of this year’s OSIF Women in Film event—especially meaningful to me as someone who grew up in Kelowna. I began working more seriously in film about seven years ago as an actress, and since then, I’ve had the opportunity to study method acting in New York City and take on larger roles, most recently co-starring in Lifetime’s Girl Taken.

I’m also incredibly proud to be directing my debut short film, Sweetie, which explores female voices and the reality of exploitation in the film industry, which will be filmed in the Okanagan. That makes it all the more meaningful to be a panellist for this year’s Women in Film forum.

I can’t wait to connect with everyone at this incredible event—glass of wine in hand!

LA Hilts

With 25 years of experience in Extras Casting. LA Hilts is a seasoned and respected industry professional known for her keen eye for talent, on-set leadership. and ability to adapt  in a fast- paced production environments.

I relocated to Kelowna 5 years ago after my TV series ended in Vancouver, with Covid bring new technologies into what we do, I can do my meetings at home and still work in Vancouver as well as Kelowna and anywhere else I may need to be.

My career includes 15 remarkable seasons working on the iconic TV series Supernatural, where I was played a key role in managing and casting background performers for 100 plus episodes, casting not only background but photo doubles, stand in's and unique character's  that you  you really have to look for. IN addition to my long term work in Television, I have contributed my casting expertise to a wide range of projects including Hallmark, lifetime films, and major studio productions with Warner Brothers , MGM & Netflix.

I am deeply committed to professionalism, collaboration, and maintaining a positive set environment. My extensive network, unmatched organizational skills, and Calm presence under pressure makes me a valuable asset to any production team. I continue to bring dedication, creativity, and a deep love of storytelling to every project I join.

I am currently working on  a book to share of my journey in film.