Georgia Arts Initiative: Film Taster Series

Bringing Industry Access and Education to the Heart of Georgia

The Georgia Arts Initiative (GAII), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is revolutionizing film education across the state by providing high-impact, real-industry training through its signature Film Taster Series.

These events are more than panels or workshops. They are immersive experiences that break down barriers between emerging creatives and industry professionals. Designed for accessibility, inspiration, and practical skill-building, the Film Taster events bring the full filmmaking ecosystem directly to Georgia communities—not just in major cities, but across rural counties and underserved regions.

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What Makes GAII Film Tasters Unique?

  • 🎞️ Union-Backed Insight: Attendees learn from professionals who are active members of leading film unions and guilds, including:
    • SAG-AFTRA (Actors, Agents, and Union Leadership)
    • CSA (Casting Society of America)
    • DGA (Directors Guild of America)
    • PGA (Producers Guild of America)
    • IATSE 479 & 600 (Props, Set Crew, Camera, and Lighting Departments)
  • 📈 Practical Industry Knowledge: From how to gain union eligibility and credits, to understanding Georgia’s tax incentives, attendees leave with information they can act on immediately.
  • 📄 Diverse Panel of Experts: Past guests have included:
    • Cheryl Louden-Kubin (CSA Casting Director)
    • Carol Shaginaw (SAG-AFTRA Agent)
    • Matt Borlenghi (SAG-AFTRA Actor)
    • Carlos E. Santos (IATSE 479, Master Props)
    • Diego Silva-Acevedo and Kelly Young-Siva (PGA Producer)
    • Ty Johnston-Chavis (p.g.a. Producer)
    • Veronica “Ronnie” Hodge-Hampton (DGA Director)
    • Ric Reitz (Actor, former SAG-AFTRA ATL President, Policy Advocate)
    • John “Sparky” Stephens (IATSE 479 and 600)
    • Heather Parady (Moderator)

GAII Is On the Move

We believe that art lives in every zip code. That’s why GAII is taking the Film Taster experience on the road, bringing film education and opportunity to both large and small communities across Georgia.

Our mission is rooted in the belief that:

“Art does not stop because systems fail. Art is an engine. And we, the artists, have always been in the business of changing the world.”

With each stop, GAII collaborates with local governments, schools, film offices, and community leaders to ensure the message is clear: Georgia is ready to lead, and GAII is here to build the bridge.

Why It Matters

Through the Film Taster series, GAII:

  • Expands access to credible film industry education
  • Helps creatives navigate the union and credit systems
  • Sparks industry connections for rural and underserved talent
  • Promotes ethical, human-centered storytelling
  • Builds a pipeline for Georgia-based film careers

These events aren’t just for education. They are acts of advocacy, visibility, and restoration. A network of artist who show up.

Support the Movement

GAII is powered by its people. As we grow, we invite you to:

  • Attend a Film Taster event near you
  • Become a GAII Member for just $50/year
  • Share our mission with those who believe in art as a force for good

“We are going to teach people humanity through this organization. And we need Georgia to see it, feel it, and stand with us.” — Kelly Young-Silva, President & Founder

This page is proudly sponsored and hosted by Words In Motion Acting Studio. Words In Motion provides in-kind support to GAII and receives no financial benefit from GAII memberships or programming. All funds are managed solely by Georgia Arts Initiative, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.