The work we do at Screen Alliance Wales is only made possible by the donations, support, and encouragement we receive from our amazing sponsors. We consider ourselves incredibly lucky to be supported by such an array of wonderful organisations, so as a special thank you, we hosted a SAW Sponsors Celebration Evening. We invited our sponsors Bad Wolf and University of South Wales as well as Movietech, Gorilla, Panalux, IJPR Cymru, S4C, Facilities by ADF, HBO, Maddog 2020 Casting, Coleg y Cymoedd, 4Wood and other friends of SAW for a magical evening at the beautiful Park Gate hotel in the heart of Cardiff. This gave us the opportunity to express our gratitude face to face with our sponsors, enjoy a meal together and network. This was the first time we have been able to put on an event such as this since the start of the pandemic, so it was wonderful to finally be able to see everyone in one place again.

SAW’s managing Director Allison Dowzell gave an emotional speech thanking each of our sponsors for their support and kindness over the years. She talked about the people that we’ve had the privilege of helping, and how despite personal setbacks, are now thriving in the industry. Quite simply, we would not exist without the generosity of our sponsors and their continued support has enabled us to expand and thrive. Each guest also received a small goody bag containing some bespoke, eco-friendly gifts as a small gesture of our appreciation.

The evening also gave us the chance to showcase our brand-new sponsors video, a thank you to everyone who has helped us along the way. It not only gave us the opportunity to show our gratitude but also allowed our sponsors to explain in their own words what it means to work alongside us. There were additions from SAW trainees, past and present, and children from schools who we have welcomed to the studio. You can view the sponsors video here.

Ever since its creation at Wolf Studios Wales, Screen Alliance Wales has strived to support the industry by bringing in new talent and nurturing them throughout their career. Through placements, traineeships, shadowing, school visits and studio tours, we work hard to show that the door to the industry is open and is constantly on the lookout for new people. With the help of our sponsors, this year alone we have supported 25 traineeships across SAW, Bad Wolf, His Dark Materials season 3 and Industry season 2, as well as 38 work shadow placements, and 168 studio visitors. We are thrilled that our sponsors share our vision and support us in our work. On multiple occasions they have taken on trainees, assisted us with Careers Cafés, and been vocal about the work we carry out across Wales.

We would also like to say a special thank you to the Park Gate Hotel for the use of their incredible venue, not to mention the wonderful food and staff that made the evening so perfect. Putting on the event was the least we could do for our sponsors, we so appreciate everything you do for us and look forward to working alongside you all for years to come. Thank you all.