This forum will feature 4 leading natural documentary filmmakers from various countries, who will discuss the profound impact of the film industry on ecological conservation.
The event aims to promote international co-production of nature and ecology-themed films and explore strategies to broaden access to funding and opportunities for filmmakers. Discussions will cover topics such as cultural differences in past international film projects, overcoming challenges, and identifying areas for development to increase the likelihood of securing commissions for both independent studios and production companies.
Hosted by Peter Venn
BBC Natural History Unit Producer & Ex-RSPCA Manager
Peter Venn, the committee member at the International Nature Bond CIC, has over 30 years of experience in wildlife filmmaking, producing for top broadcasters like National Geographic and Discovery. He has managed one of the UK’s largest wildlife rehabilitation centres with the RSPCA and currently directs the MA in Wildlife Filmmaking at UWE, where student films have won major awards at BAFTA, Wildscreen, Jackson Hole, and the RTS.
Guest Speaker - Jon Clay
Director of See Through Stories
Jonathan Clay is a seasoned filmmaker with over 30 years of experience in natural history documentaries. He has directed, produced, and contributed as a cinematographer to acclaimed works such as “Breaking Boundaries: The Science of Our Planet”, “David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet”, “Springwatch”, and “Human Planet”. His career has been marked by award-winning films for international audiences, pushing the boundaries where entertainment intersects with activism.
At Silverback Films, Jonathan spent three years developing impact campaigns for the Netflix series *Our Planet*, gaining unique insights into the successes and challenges of impact strategies. His work on *Breaking Boundaries* earned high praise from prominent figures like John Kerry, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Christiana Figueres.
In 2021, Jonathan produced David Attenborough’s speech to world leaders at COP26 in Glasgow. He later founded See Through Stories, where he focuses on crafting films that have the power to shift cultural narratives toward a more equitable and regenerative future. Jonathan’s diverse experiences, from the adventurous *Tribe* series for the BBC to his current projects, continue to shape his approach to storytelling and activism.
His Message: Ideas are the currency in this industry. How can we develop filmmaking to connect with our society and make a real impact?
Guest Speaker - Qin Bo
Director at Qin Bo Studio, a subsidiary of SMG (Shanghai Media Group)
ANFFF Asian Ambassador for Ecological Conservation
Qin Bo, a renowned documentary director in Mainland China, leads the "Qin Bo Studio" at the Documentary Center of Shanghai Media Group. He is acclaimed for his medical documentaries "The World of Medicine" and its sequel, as well as his humanistic works "The First Time in Life" and "The Second Time in Life." These films have won numerous prestigious awards, including the Golden Kapok Award, the Jury Prize at the China Documentary Academy Awards, and the Best Series Documentary at the Shanghai TV Festival Magnolia Awards.
Recently, Qin Bo has focused on ecological documentaries. He co-directed "Seeds of Himalayas" with Tang Xinrong, showcased at the Venice International Film Festival. His program "Ride Along" was shortlisted for the Best Variety Program at the 29th Shanghai TV Festival Magnolia Awards, highlighting environmental protection and low-carbon lifestyles. His upcoming documentary "Above the Fields" documents rural revitalization, capturing ecological challenges and changes in rural areas over nearly a year.
Guest Speaker - Jianlan Li
Production Manager
Jianlan Li brings over a decade of experience as a co-production manager in both international and domestic projects. She served as the UK Production Manager for *Panda: Call of the Wild*, which is slated for theatrical release in China in 2024 and a worldwide release by Channel 5. Her expertise includes a broad, multinational perspective on topics relevant to such panel discussions.
Guest Speaker - Kean Cao
Founder of the Animal Nature Future Film Festival
Kean Cao is the founder of the Animal Nature Future Film Festival (ANFFF) and is experienced in bilingual event planning, independent curation, and film production. With over a decade of experience, she has worked on international projects, including NASA's Tour de Moon, and serves as PR for the Fido Awards and the Palm Dog Award at the Cannes Film Festival. Kean is dedicated to advancing animal welfare and environmental sustainability and is passionate about promoting cross-border initiatives that foster global harmony and ecological balance through her work with ANFFF.
