Simone Ashley, Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Stacy L. Smith to Headline Women in Film Conference (EXCLUSIVE)

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Actors who have made a splash in series like “Bridgerton” (specifically Simon Ashley) and “Surface” (led by Gugu Mbatha-Raw) on Apple TV+, along with Dr. Stacy L. Smith, the founder of USC’s Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, are slated to headline the speaker list at an upcoming Women in Film Conference, which will take place at Oxford University.

The all-day celebration taking place at the Sheldonian Theater of the university aims, as stated by organizers, to honor transformation and encourage additional advancements.

At the upcoming event, sponsored jointly by the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, Oxford University’s Cultural Programme, and the Ghetto Film School, Ashley (from “Picture This” on Amazon Prime) will have a live conversation with Smith.

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Ashley from “Picture This” on Amazon Prime is scheduled to participate in a stage interview during an event that’s being co-hosted by the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, Oxford University’s Cultural Programme, and the Ghetto Film School, with Smith conducting the interview.

Smith praised Simone as a versatile talent who is undeniably shaping the future of the entertainment world. In honoring the accomplishments of women in entertainment, Simone’s perspective serves as the voice of the emerging and upcoming leaders. Providing her with an opportunity to discuss her journey, aspirations, and vision for success will certainly motivate our audience and stimulate discussions about women in film.

Ashley follows in the footsteps of Mbatha-Raw, a BIFA Award-winning actress who gained recognition in films such as “Belle,” “Concussion,” “A Wrinkle in Time,” “Fast Color,” and “Motherless Brooklyn,” taking the stage after her.

Smith noted that Gugu possesses a rich background and deep understanding, which significantly enriches her work and discussions. Her acting career spans across the United States and the United Kingdom, having taken on various roles in films and TV shows. With her at Oxford, she can impart her distinctive insights into the entertainment industry by disclosing her professional journey, how she’s managed the industry, and offering our viewers a glimpse of what it’s like to be an artist in today’s film and television world.

The occasion will additionally include a discussion panel with notable figures such as Oriane Pick (“The Date”), twice Oscar-nominated and BAFTA-winning producer Finola Dwyer (“Brooklyn”, “An Education”), and casting director Lucy Bevan (“Barbie”, “The Batman”). Furthermore, the day’s activities will include screenings of short films created by Ghetto Film School students, as well as an evening presentation of the BAFTA-winning documentary “For Sama” followed by a Q&A with director Waad Al-Kateab.

Smith, meanwhile. will be presenting new research on the status of women in global film.

She noted that women in cinema and women-centric content have made substantial strides forward. However, through thorough analysis and statistics, it’s evident that there are still areas requiring improvement, specifically for women of color within the entertainment industry.

The Women in Film Conference will take place on May 12.

In our process of establishing the Schwarzman Centre at Oxford University, we are eagerly committed to uniting remarkable artists, innovators, and intellectuals to tackle some of today’s most pressing global challenges. It is a privilege to invite Simone Ashley, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Dr. Stacy L. Smith, and numerous others to grace the historic Sheldonian Theatre for an event that honors women driving transformation and advancement within the film and television sector.

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2025-04-17 11:16