Toronto's own Ali has been a pivotal force in the entertainment industry, leading Spin VFX for over three decades. Under her leadership, the company has expanded globally, with offices in Los Angeles and Atlanta, and has contributed to popular titles such as The Umbrella Academy and School Spirits. In 2024, Ali achieved a significant milestone by rehiring staff who were laid off during an industry-wide slowdown—a first for her company. Reflecting on this moment, she shared, “That’s when I started to feel like a decent human being again.” As a proponent of tech-powered storytelling, Ali emphasizes the importance of ensuring that AI and virtual tools enhance artistry rather than diminish it, stating, “The soul of our creation lies in how we bring compelling stories to life.”
No longer a hidden gem, Toronto’s Juno-winning quartet is making waves in the music scene. Formed in 2013, the band comprises sisters Jordan and Kylie Miller (lead vocals/bass and guitar), Eliza Enman-McDaniel (drums), and Leandra Earl (keyboards/guitar). Last summer, they sold out the 16,000-seat Budweiser Stage in their hometown and are set to perform at Coachella 2025. Enman-McDaniel expressed their excitement, saying, “Something we’ve always dreamed of and we’re so happy to check off our bucket list.” She also reflected on their journey, advising her younger self, “We faced a lot of bullying because we were girls in a band, but we persevered — we all had this common vision and goal.”
Case, a leading figure in content strategy for Paramount’s Canadian streamers, has made bold moves, from reviving American Gladiators to launching the new reality show Canada Shore, inspired by the iconic Jersey Shore. While still casting, the show has already garnered substantial local support. Case believes that the biggest challenge facing the industry is the slow adaptation to changing tech and political landscapes. “We need to adapt faster to both tech and politics,” she notes. Her mantra for newcomers is straightforward: “Lean in, trust your instincts and take risks.”
Deverell, who was nominated for an Academy Award for Nightmare Alley, has just completed a two-year journey working on Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein. Describing it as one of the most challenging productions she has ever participated in, she recalls a heartfelt moment during the final champagne toast at Wilton House in the U.K. Deverell advocates for preserving creative freedom in the age of AI, emphasizing, “We need raw, honest films that speak openly about the human condition.” Her advice to aspiring filmmakers is clear: “Come at it honestly as a storyteller — no matter what role you play.”
After a hiatus to focus on family, Nelly Furtado is back in the spotlight, returning to the music scene with her seventh album, 7, released in September. Furtado made a surprise appearance in 2022 alongside Drake at his All Canadian North Stars concert, which reignited her passion for music. Over four years, she penned over 400 songs, showcasing her journey of self-discovery and creativity. Now at 46, she’s touring again and embraces authenticity, reminding fans that “We are all cute little humans just bouncing around the Earth looking for hugs.”
At the forefront of one of Canada’s only Indigenous- and women-owned record labels, Kish and Rheaume are making significant strides in the music industry. Kish, part of the Juno-winning duo Digging Roots, and Rheaume, who just released her latest solo album The Truth We Hold, recently signed four new acts, including emerging artists like Siibii and Logan Staats. Rheaume expressed her pride, stating, “At Ishkodé Records, 90 percent of our team are women! Our team of aunties brings so much care and love to all our work.”
Spearheading Thunderbird since 2018, McCarron is committed to fostering a supportive environment for creators, overseeing a diverse portfolio of children’s programming such as Molly of Denali and Highway Thru Hell. “We create an environment where nobody feels like a number,” McCarron explains. Her advice for women entering the field is simple yet powerful: “A great attitude will open more doors than anything.”
Fresh off a Juno Awards sweep with four wins, including best album and best artist, McRae has reached new heights this year with her album So Close to What debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Her emotionally resonant lyrics and vibrant dance-floor tracks have struck a chord with Gen Z, positioning her as a top choice for “sync” opportunities, making her catalog a go-to for music supervisors.
A mainstay in Canada’s indie film scene, Piovesan has worked on acclaimed projects like The Whistleblower and Infinity Pool. In 2016, she joined Elevation Pictures to lead their Canadian film and TV production efforts. This year, her focus has been on expanding Elevation’s production team, stating, “Seeing folks step up and make things happen for filmmakers — that’s been incredibly rewarding.” She attributes her success to her early mentor, agent Ann Blanchard, who instilled a belief in her ability to effect change.
After a historic residency with Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden, Rathwell is now working with music legend Stevie Wonder. Describing her experience as “the honor and privilege of a lifetime,” Rathwell is committed to mentoring the next generation of talent buyers through her program affectionately known as “Debra’s Finishing School.”
Symsyk, who oversees a nonprofit that allocates millions in funding to Canadian artists, has faced significant challenges this year, including a legal battle against Scotiabank over a cyber theft incident amounting to nearly $10 million CAD. Expressing her disbelief over the slow recovery of the stolen funds, she emphasized the importance of community support among female leaders in the entertainment sector. “It’s critical to support the culture you love, and sometimes that includes standing up to liars, bullies, and thieves,” she stated.
Newly appointed CEO of Salxco, Unwin is determined to reshape the music industry by fostering inclusivity. As she steps into 2025, she emphasizes the importance of mentorship and creating pathways for women in decision-making roles. “Learn the business. Knowing the numbers, contracts, and strategy is what turns talent into leadership,” she advises.
As one of Canada’s literary giants, Margaret Atwood continues to captivate audiences with her works, including the Booker Prize-winning sequel The Testaments, set to transition to television. Atwood will be honored with the ICON Award at The Hollywood Reporter’s second annual Women in Entertainment Canada summit on May 29. The event will also recognize Indigenous activist Tantoo Cardinal with the Equity in Entertainment Award, and Jeanne Beker, who will receive the Impact Award. This year’s event promises to bring together top names from the entertainment industry for engaging discussions and celebrations.
The WIE Canada event, which debuted last year, has garnered significant attention and support, creating a platform for influential voices in film, TV, and music to connect and share insights. With more star power and critical industry conversations expected this year, attendees can look forward to an inspiring experience.
