‘Women in Film and Television’ club offers space for like-minded women

Cal Poly’s Women in FIlm and Television Club (WIFT) is home to a group of students who share a passion for film appreciation and making, especially by female directors, editors and producers. 

This club aims for female inclusivity and empowerment in the film and media industry. 

Clare Zianno, English junior and president of WIFT, loves the empowerment she gets from others in the club. 

 “Everyone who is a part of it is super dedicated and we all kind of have the same mind set of helping the club grow and we really want the best for the club now and the future,” Zianno said.

Each month WIFT hosts an event to highlight female directors working in the industry. 

“Recently, we have partnered with the palm theater to do these events every month called WOW and this stands for women on Wednesdays,” Zianno said. “This is where one Wednesday out of the month is dedicated to show a film at the palm theater of a movie directed by a female. Last month we did ‘Selma’ for black history month and that was directed by a female.” 

Randi Barros, a media arts and technology Cal Poly professor and advisor for WIFT loves the community of like minded students. 

“I love seeing the students thinking about film, wanting to talk to people in the industry,” Barros said. “I love connecting people in the industry with students. I’m always excited when students want to work in the film industry.”

Barros added that the club is open to all Cal Poly students. “It’s not only women. Even though it’s called women in film and television the group is open to students of all genders so the more creative ideas and the more people who are collaborating the better.”WIFT recommends people interested in joining to reach out and email calpolywift@gmail.com or follow @CalPolyWIFT on Instagram.