Industry Pioneers. Modern Visionaries.

A masterclass in Tech and Talent. Thank you to our event sponsor, Centre Stage.

Meet the Panel

Julie Peters – 52-year career in 30+ jobs. She joined the ABC in 1971, when television was still in b&w and she was an audio assistant on the first episode of Countdown!

In the 1990s, Peters made history as the first person to openly transition at the ABC. Beyond her technical credits, she is a dedicated advocate for gender diversity, running "Lighting for Women" courses funded by WIFT Australia and the Australian Film Commission to address industry gender imbalances.

Jesse Samos Leaman – Jesse Samos Leaman is an Australian Writer-Director whose Spanish heritage and personal experiences, including living with a mild tic disorder, help shape his commitment to telling authentic stories and amplifying underrepresented voices.

His debut short film Lorne, starring Guy Pearce, screened at top festivals and won multiple awards before a successful Omeleto release. His next short, Mad Martha, is on SBS On Demand and has received international awards for direction and cinematography.

His documentary Mother of Chooks screened at major festivals worldwide and won a Jury Citation Award at the Thomas Edison Film Festival. FYI - Mother of Chooks is screening through the REEL Film Festival !

Jesse has also directed music videos for artists like Masked Wolf and Didirri, earning awards at ARFF Barcelona and the International Music Video Awards, as well as an ADG nomination for Didirri's Often Broken

Jesse crafts visually striking, emotionally resonant films. He is developing his debut feature with Taylor Adams, following Lorne's success.

David Greenwood OAM – Centre Stage.

David Greenwood OAM is a respected theatre producer, educator, and community leader based in Geelong, Victoria. As the Managing Director of CentreStage, David has spent more than 15 years building pathways for young people and emerging artists to access high-quality training, professional opportunities, and meaningful connections within the performing arts industry.

David's work spans large-scale musical theatre productions, talent development, education programs, and community-led initiatives, with a strong focus on inclusion, accessibility, and regional representation. He is also an experienced small business owner, having employed dozens of staff and contractors across creative and education settings.

In recognition of his contribution to small business and the arts, David was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2024. He continues to champion inclusive leadership, youth opportunity, and the vital role the arts play in community wellbeing, particularly in regional Victoria.

This event is proudly supported by Centre Stage.

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Host or Publisher Geelong Waterfront Film