WIA announced the lineup for this year’s WIA World Summit at the Annecy International Animation Festival and Mifa 2025. This year's summit, themed "The future is animated," will examine emerging industry innovations and the power of community as we navigate the evolving animation landscape.
The ninth annual WIA World Summit will take place on Monday, June 9 at the Impérial Palace Hotel (Allée de l'Impérial, 74000 Annecy) in the Salle de l'Europe. The event will feature a day-long symposium of panels and focused conversations spotlighting key thought leaders, filmmakers, and executives from around the world, discussing gender equity — a system of fairness and opportunity for people of all genders, gender identities, and presentations. The summit will be recorded and later posted on the WIA website.
WIA president Marge Dean highlighted the challenge of amplifying underrepresented voices: “As we come together for our 9th annual World Summit at Annecy, 'The future is animated,' we’re not only celebrating progress, we’re actively looking toward what comes next. The industry is changing, but true equity demands relentless focus on opportunity, access, and amplifying underrepresented voices. WIA is committed to a future in which everyone can thrive," stated.
Meanwhile, CITIA CEO Mickaël Marin celebrated shining a spotlight on the generation that is shaping the industry: “It’s a real pleasure to welcome the WIA World Summit back to Annecy for its ninth edition. Each year, this event stands out as a highlight of the festival and Mifa — a time to reflect, to connect, and to look ahead. With this year’s theme, 'The future is animated,' we’re celebrating a new generation of voices who are shaping the medium with boldness and creativity," expressed.
The day will begin with a welcome from WIA president Marge Dean and CITIA CEO Mickaël Marin, followed by an introduction to the day’s events from WIA secretary Julie Ann Crommett. The first session of the day, starting at 10 a.m., will focus on how audience-driven content is transforming the animation industry. Titled "The audience-driven future," this panel will explore how creators are reshaping traditional production and distribution models by leveraging platforms like YouTube, Webtoons, and digital comics. Moderated by Marge Dean, the conversation will include Dang Khoa Trinh, CEO of OTSU Labs; Maya Penn, CEO of Upenndo! Productions; Sophie Saget, producer and CEO at Andarta Pictures; and Hayley Lam, founder of Studio Munbou. Panelists will discuss how they build and monetize engaged fanbases, and how digital platforms are enabling new forms of creative independence.
The second session, scheduled for 11 a.m., will delve into the expanding world of adult animation. Under the title "The future of adult animation," the discussion will highlight how this genre is offering bold and culturally resonant narratives for mature audiences. Featuring Marci Proietto, executive vice president of animation at 20th Century Fox; Marshell Becton, producer of "Invincible" at Skybound Entertainment; Sydney Bright, head of global animation at Webtoon; and Ollie Green, executive producer at Tree People International, Inc., the panel will explore how the medium is evolving, who is leading its transformation, and why adult animation deserves more serious attention as it tackles deeper and more complex stories.
Later in the afternoon, at 2:15 p.m., the final session of the day will look to the future of talent and storytelling in animation. In "What’s next: showcasing the future," Linda Simensky, head of character development and scripted content at Duolingo, will be joined by animator and screenwriter Rebecca Sugar for a candid conversation about how to nurture the next generation of animation creators. Drawing on their own experiences, they’ll discuss the importance of mentorship, creative risk-taking, and inclusion. Simensky will also spotlight the work of rising innovators such as Megan Dong, director at Warner Bros. Pictures Animation; Mailys Vallade, director/screenwriter at Maybe Movies; and Sylvia Prietov, CEO of Lucy Animation Studio — all of whom are challenging expectations and broadening the horizons of animated storytelling.