It's an honour to be on the judging panel for the inaugural makers & shakers Awards. There are so many creative problem-solvers in our midst it's great to have a platform from which to sing their praises. There is an awful lot of making and shaking going on in these strange coronavirus times – here's to better days, stronger constitutions and acknowledging our small army of trailblazing makers & shakers

It’s an honour to be invited to the Makers & Shakers judging panel and I’m delighted to be involved with Awards that recognise the talented professionals who make the production process possible. It’s particularly relevant this year as these individuals have excelled in finding solutions to unprecedented challenges in order to keep the industry moving forward.

These awards shine a spotlight on the great work being done by our global community of film-makers and those around them – from Auckland to Reykjavík and everywhere in between. Creative screen industries are leading the way during challenging times for our world, so let’s acknowledge our trail-blazers by supporting these awards

Collaboration, innovation and determination are the key component of the Film and TV industries in my opinion, and at the heart of it, what the Makers and Shakers awards celebrate. I’m excited to be part of this years jury and to learn more about the amazing practitioners that are a core part of making all of our productions a reality

I have always admired the many professionals in the film industry who work hard and tirelessly to improve production conditions and opportunities in their countries. From location scouts, to film commissions and fund managers, they find innovative ways to support the identity of the European film industry and make it more sustainable with all their creativity. Honouring their achievements is long overdue so it's fantastic that the makers & shakers Awards are providing a platform to acknowledge the outstanding and creative solutions of these professionals. It is a great honour for me to be part of the jury at the inaugural awards this year.