Women in Exhibition (WIE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, connecting, and advancing women throughout theatrical exhibition, distribution, and allied industry businesses, is proud to announce its selection as the official charitable partner and beneficiary of the 2026 American Film Association (AFA) Gala, taking place November 8, 2026, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.

The evening will bring together award-winning producers, investors, financiers, distributors, exhibitors, studio executives, and established filmmakers for a formal dinner and awards ceremony celebrating the individuals whose vision, leadership, and contributions continue to shape the global film industry.

As the Gala’s selected charitable partner and beneficiary, Women in Exhibition will receive special recognition throughout the evening, including:

Ten minutes of stage time to share the organization’s mission, accomplishments, and vision for the future.

Direct charitable giving opportunities, with a WIE-managed donation QR code and link featured during the event and in the printed Gala program, ensuring donations go directly to the organization.

Prominent logo recognition on Gala screens, the event website, and printed program.

A complimentary table for eight guests, providing opportunities to connect with leaders from across the film industry.

Accepting the honor on behalf of Women in Exhibition will be Heather Blair Meeks, Founder and Chairman, and Geonni Sigl, President of Women in Exhibition and owner of Onni Creative.

Recognizing the Women Who Help Bring Cinema to Life

While the film industry frequently celebrates the creative achievements of filmmakers, actors, and producers, Women in Exhibition champions the professionals whose contributions extend throughout the entire cinema ecosystem — from theatrical exhibition and distribution to technology, marketing, operations, industry vendors, and the theatrical audience experience.

Founded in 2019, Women in Exhibition has grown into an industry organization committed to creating opportunities for women through four core initiatives:

Panel Parity: Increasing women’s visibility and representation as speakers, moderators, and thought leaders at industry conferences and events.

Scholarship: Providing opportunities for women to attend industry conferences, build professional relationships, and expand their careers.

Mentorship: Connecting emerging professionals with experienced industry leaders for guidance, professional development, and career advancement.

Virtual Speaker Series: Bringing influential industry executives and thought leaders together for conversations that inspire, educate, and connect the exhibition community.

A Meaningful Moment for Women in Exhibition

“To have Women in Exhibition recognized at an event that brings together so many influential voices from across the film industry is an incredible honor,” said Heather Blair Meeks, Founder and Chairman of Women in Exhibition.

“Film is a collaborative industry. From the first investment in a story to the moment an audience takes its seat in a theatre, countless talented professionals contribute to bringing that experience to life. Women are an essential part of that journey, and our mission is to ensure their voices, leadership, and contributions are seen, heard, and celebrated,” said Geonni Sigl, President of Women in Exhibition and owner of Onni Creative.

Meeks added, “This recognition is more than an opportunity to introduce WIE to new audiences. It’s an opportunity to build meaningful relationships across production, finance, distribution, and exhibition — relationships that can help us create even greater opportunities for the women we serve.”

Connecting the Entire Film Industry

The American Film Association Gala celebrates the professionals whose leadership, judgment, creativity, and investment sustain the motion picture industry.

By bringing together decision-makers from independent filmmaking, studio production, finance, distribution, and theatrical exhibition, the Gala creates an environment for meaningful conversations and relationships that extend beyond individual sectors of the business.

Women in Exhibition’s participation underscores the importance of recognizing the people and partnerships that support cinema at every stage.

The evening also presents an opportunity to introduce WIE’s mission to potential corporate partners, sponsors, and industry advocates who share its commitment to professional development, leadership, and opportunity.

The partnership also reflects an established relationship between the two organizations. AFA founders Austin Spicer and Hailey Spicer have both participated as guest speakers in Women in Exhibition’s Virtual Speaker Series, while Hailey has also participated in WIE’s Mentorship Program as a mentee.

Their involvement provides AFA’s leadership with firsthand insight into WIE’s mission and the value of creating meaningful connections, mentorship opportunities, and professional pathways for women throughout the industry.

Looking Ahead to 2027

As Women in Exhibition prepares for an ambitious 2027, the organization continues to expand its industry partnerships, scholarship opportunities, and Panel Parity initiative, working alongside conference organizers to increase women’s participation in industry conversations and leadership roles.

Through these efforts, WIE seeks not only to create opportunities for women to attend industry events, but also to ensure they have a seat at the table — as speakers, moderators, decision-makers, and leaders.

The organization’s selection as the Gala’s charitable partner and beneficiary represents another meaningful opportunity to strengthen relationships across the broader entertainment community, generate financial support for its programs, and further its mission of creating lasting opportunities for women in cinema.

About Women in Exhibition
Founded in 2019, Women in Exhibition (WIE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, empowering, and advancing women working in theatrical exhibition, distribution, and allied industry businesses. Through its four pillars — Panel Parity, Scholarship, Mentorship, and Virtual Speaker Series — WIE creates opportunities for professional growth, industry visibility, education, and meaningful connections.

For more information, visit www.womeninexhibition.com.