On Saturday, December 6, 2025, Film Training Manitoba (FTM) hosted the fourth annual Canada’s Supporting Women in Film Trades (SWIFT) Conference, welcoming 132 women, women-identifying, and non-binary participants for a one-day event focused on skills development, learning, and networking. SWIFT is the largest conference globally for women who work in trade positions within the film industry.
The success of SWIFT 2025 was made possible through the generous support of nearly twenty partner organizations and sponsors. In collaboration with the SWIFT Planning Committee, FTM reviewed evaluations and feedback from previous SWIFT conferences to ensure programming reflected current industry needs and participant demand. As a result, this year’s conference focused on advancing workers in REEL jobs and careers, delivering targeted, high-impact training opportunities. Programming included a thoughtfully curated mix of panels, keynote speakers, and networking sessions designed to deepen industry knowledge, foster connection, and support career progression.
Opening Remarks & Acknowledgement
The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Allison Bile, FTM’s Director of Workforce Development and SWIFT, alongside Ellen Rutter, FTM Chairperson, and Tanya Mazur, SWIFT Chairperson. Together, they acknowledged the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, honouring the victims of the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre. This moment of reflection underscored the importance of solidarity, safety, and inclusivity within both the film industry and the broader community.
Conference Programming Highlights
SWIFT 2025 featured a diverse lineup of panels and speakers aimed at inspiring, educating, and equipping participants with practical tools to advance their careers in the film industry.
Panel 1: ACTION! Careers in Trades
Moderated by Emily Labby, FTM’s Training and Partnerships Manager, this panel featured Lisa Nelson-Fries, Jillian Groen, and Khali Weanus, who shared personal career journeys, challenges, and practical advice for entering and thriving in film trades. The session highlighted the persistence and dedication required for long-term success in the industry, resonating strongly with attendees.
Panel 2: Rolling! Documentary Filmmakers on How to Get Your Project Seen and Screened.
Sponsored by DOC Manitoba and the Canada Media Fund, this panel was moderated by filmmaker and SWIFT Committee member Danielle Sturk. Panelists Sonya Ballantyne, Erica Daniels, Nilufer Rahman, Joanne Roberts, and Kerri Woloszyn discussed navigating industry challenges, building community support, and achieving success in documentary filmmaking. Participants gained valuable insight into project development, storytelling, and overcoming workplace obstacles.
Speaker Session: Transformative Leadership with Connie Walker
Following the lunch break, the conference welcomed Connie Walker, OM, for a keynote speaker session sponsored by the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). From her early career as a public health nurse to becoming former CEO of the United Way of Winnipeg, an Honorary Doctor of Laws recipient, and a member of the Order of Manitoba, Connie Walker shared a deeply inspiring leadership journey. She emphasized that leadership takes many forms and that true transformation is rooted in service, inclusivity, and community commitment.
“Our SWIFT team deeply appreciated Connie Walker sharing her experiences from her remarkable and inspiring career as a Manitoba-based leader and executive,” said Allison Bile.
Following Connie’s session, she connected with a number of the SWIFT attendees and provided advice about career advancement.
Panel 3: Close Up! Straight From the Source with Film Industry Labour Unions
Moderated by Allison Bile, this panel offered participants direct insight from representatives of ACTRA, DGC-MDC, IATSE 856, and ICG 669. Panelists shared practical guidance on joining unions, navigating membership systems, and identifying training pathways. The session proved especially valuable for those entering the industry or seeking unionized career advancement.
Keynote Speaker & Moderated Discussion
The SWIFT keynote session, sponsored by IATSE 856, featured Elisabeth Williams, a three-time Emmy Award–winning Production Designer known for her work on Polytechnique, Fargo, and The Handmaid’s Tale. Elisabeth delivered an engaging presentation detailing her career journey, creative process, and experiences across major productions, supported by visuals and production insights.
Following the keynote, Elisabeth joined Tanya Mazur, Script Supervisor and SWIFT Chair, for a moderated one-on-one discussion. Together, they explored the realities of working in the film industry, addressing topics such as conflict resolution, career longevity, and work-life balance. The session concluded with a lively Q&A, allowing participants to engage directly with Elisabeth.
“Elisabeth Williams was an inspiring and deeply engaging keynote speaker whose presence captivated the room. She generously shared her personal journey as a film professional, offering heartfelt insight into the challenges, growth, and resilience required to thrive in our industry. Her words not only educated attendees but also sparked motivation, reminding us of the importance of continuous advancement, passion, and belief in our own creative paths.” Said Tanya Mazur.
SWIFT 2025 Award Presentation
As the conference drew to a close, Ellen Rutter and Tanya Mazur presented the SWIFT 2025 Award to film industry veteran Cathie Edgar, recognizing her outstanding contributions and leadership within the local film community. Cathie’s extensive experience includes serving as the president of the DGC-MDC, as well as many years of mentoring and championing workers within the film and television industry in Manitoba.
“Cathie Edgar is widely respected for her ethics and professionalism, and the SWIFT Committee was delighted to select her for this well-deserved honor.” Said Ellen Rutter.
In her acceptance speech, Cathie expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career, reminding attendees of the importance of mentorship, community, and lifting one another up.
Closing Reception & Reflections
The conference concluded with a networking reception, providing participants with the opportunity to connect with peers, panelists, and industry leaders. Attendees also had the unique opportunity to meet Elisabeth Williams, take photos, and even hold her Emmy Award—an unforgettable moment for many.
SWIFT 2025 served as a powerful reminder of the value of community, collaboration, and shared learning in creating meaningful pathways for professional growth.
During the conference, FTM’s SWIFT Executive and Elisabeth Williams were invited to the Manitoba Legislative Building to meet with Minister Jamie Moses, Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation of Manitoba and take in the holiday open house. Minister Moses has provided greetings on behalf of the Province of Manitoba at the SWIFT conference in 2023 and 2024 and reconnected with the committee for 2025.
Evaluation Summary Highlights
With 358 evaluations collected, FTM and the SWIFT Committee are committed to incorporating participant feedback and continuing to evolve the conference to meet the needs of a growing and diverse film industry. Together, we remain dedicated to breaking down barriers, sharing knowledge, and inspiring the next generation of film industry professionals. Here is a snap-shot of the evaluations of each session
Panel 1 – ACTION! Careers in Trades
- 97% agreed speakers were knowledgeable
- 92% found the session engaging and supportive
- Requests for more FTM workshops in rigging, grip, lighting, carpentry, and potential trades mentorships
Panel 2 – Rolling! Documentary Filmmaking
- 98.9% agreed speakers were knowledgeable
- 94.4% found the session engaging
- Participants praised the natural discussion, storytelling, and practical tips
- Suggestions included more time, topic splitting, clips, and networking opportunities
Panel 3 – Film Industry Labour Unions
- 100% agreed speakers were knowledgeable
- 92.3% found the session engaging
- Described as “extremely helpful” for understanding union pathways
- Suggestions included content tailored to career stages and enhanced visual aids
Connie Walker – Transformative Leadership
- 88.3% rated the speaker as knowledgeable
- 72.6% found the session engaging
- Feedback suggested clearer connections to the film industry and more actionable leadership tools
Elisabeth Williams – Keynote & Moderated Discussion
- 100% rated the speaker as knowledgeable
- 90.7% found the session engaging
- Widely praised as “amazing,” with participants appreciating the moderated, talk-show-style format
FTM is a member of the Province of Manitoba’s Sector Council Program funded through the Manitoba Business, Mining, Trade & Job Creation. FTM builds a highly skilled and adaptable film industry workforce to support the activities of Manitoba production companies. FTM collaborates and partners with members of the film and television industry to identify training needs to support workforce development output.