Anastasiya Bura is a London-based film director and filmmaker, exploring culture and human expression around the world. Originally from Ukraine, she uses her extensive experience of living around the world to tell stories. She is currently completing her feature, “My Playground” about the intriguing world of BMX street culture. Anastasiya uses film as a tool to detangle complex personal emotions and uncover the truth.

You can find out more about Ana at her website: https://anastasiyabura.com

Community: Disability Advocate and LGBTQIA+

Finn Dall is a writer and critic from Naarm/Melbourne interested in weird and wonderful stories. His work has been featured by ACMI, FilmInk, Kinotopia, and the Melbourne University Film Inquirer. You can follow him over on Letterboxd and Bluesky @finnwritesdall, and Instagram @finnwritesdall

Community: Belarusian, refugee

Born in 1999 in Minsk, Belarus. Following the controversial 2020 Belarusian elections, she was subjected to political repression and persecution and was forced to flee the country. She moved to Vilnius, Lithuania, where she still lives and works. Graduated from the Vilnius Academy of Art (BA and MA, Department of Graphic Art). For more than 10 years, Palina has been developing professionally as an illustrator, and in recent years, she has begun to delve deeper into the field of animation. In 2023 - 2024, she directed the award-winning short film “Straight and in a Circle”. Now she works as a 2D artist-animator in the ArtShot studio in Lithuania, Vilnius, on the children's animated series "BFF". You can learn more about Palina in social links below, Behance, FilmFreeway and Vimeo.

Sophie is a writer and Visitor Experience Guide at the Australian Centre of the Moving Image (ACMI), frequently presenting insights about the history and technologies of film. Arthouse cinema was first introduced into their life during frequent and extended hospital stays as a child. These films acted as portals to the outside world, which allowed them to develop a keen understanding of how films can connect people over borders and cultures. They have a Bachelors of Media and Communications and are about to embark on a Master’s program to deepen their understanding of the film and arts industries. Follow their Letterboxd @snow_whiting for the latest film reviews.

With training in screenwriting, directing, cinematography and editing, Imoje Aikhoje has developed a multifaceted skill set that deeply informs his creative vision. Alongside directing he is currently a Senior Creative Editor at Hogarth. Originally starting out in music videos, he's gone on to direct a number of short films and work on productions for Netflix, BBC, Channel 4, CNN and Google. His work has screened across the world and featured at the Raindance Film Festival, Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival, Vancouver Independent Film Festival and London Shorts. Obsessed with intense imagery, Imoje always strives to present authentic and meaningful stories.

Community and/or Cultural Background- Indian heritage

Yogi Devgan is an award-winning filmmaker, writer, director, and producer, whose storytelling is deeply influenced by his multicultural upbringing. Based in Australia, he is dedicated to creating films that resonate globally while championing diversity and representation. With a Bachelor of Film and Television from the University of South Australia, Yogi established Mount Lofty Studios, fostering creativity without limits. His work spans narrative films and documentaries, focusing on stories that leave a lasting impact. His latest film, A Silent Escape, has earned multiple accolades, including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actress at renowned film festivals. The film is now available on CHAUPAL, a global streaming platform accessible in over 244 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Australia, and the EU. His documentary Smile, It’s Free won Best Editor and Best Documentary at multiple festivals. Beyond filmmaking, Yogi is a passionate advocate for inclusivity in cinema. In 2022, he founded the PADIF Film Festival and AFDIF Film Festival, a platform dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices. Through his work, Yogi continues to push boundaries, ensuring that film remains a powerful force for connection, representation, and social impact. You can learn more about Yogi through the social links below.