On The Rise Student Film Festival: Industry Panel + Live Q&A

CURIOUS ABOUT WHAT IT REALLY TAKES TO BUILD A CAREER IN FILM? 🎬

Join us for the On The Rise Student Film Festival Industry Panel + Live Q&A, an afternoon conversation bringing aspiring filmmakers, students, families, and our creative community face-to-face with professionals actively working across film, television, production, education, and entertainment.

This isn't just a conversation about making movies. Our panelists will share real-world career advice, behind-the-scenes experiences, lessons from their professional journeys, and insight into building a career within the film industry.

🎤 MEET OUR INDUSTRY PANELISTS

Walter Kiesling — Special Effects Coordinator with credits across major film and television productions, including The Hunger Games, The Conjuring, and Lincoln.

Joanne Hock — Director + Screenwriter with an extensive career in filmmaking, directing, and visual storytelling.

Rodney Stringfellow — Director of Film Studies at UNC Charlotte and award-winning screenwriter with writing credits for PBS Kids, Nick Jr., Disney Channel, BBC, Nickelodeon, and Sesame Workshop.

Alicia Fusting — Film and creative industry professional joining us to share her experience and insight with the next generation of storytellers.

Jonathan Grubbs — Producer, Line Producer + UPM with extensive production experience across film, television, and commercial projects.

WHAT WE'LL TALK ABOUT

🎥 Career Advice — Hear directly from professionals actively working in the field.

🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Insight — Learn what happens beyond the camera and what it really takes to bring productions to life.

🚀 Breaking Into the Industry — Explore different career pathways and opportunities within film and entertainment.

🎤 Live Q&A — Bring your questions! Attendees will have the opportunity to ask our panelists questions during the conversation.

Whether you're a student considering a future in film, an emerging creative trying to find your path, a parent supporting a young filmmaker, or simply interested in learning more about the industry, this conversation is for you.

Admission is FREE, but registration is encouraged.

This Industry Panel is part of The Creative Cornerstone's On The Rise Student Film Festival, happening throughout the day on September 19 at Independent Picture House.

🎬 Want the full festival experience? Join us for student film screenings, award recognitions, a professional workshop, food trucks, the Industry Panel, and more.

Learn more about the full On The Rise Student Film Festival: https://www.creativecornerstonenc.org/film-festival