Media Release

Screen Producers Australia (SPA) has announced the Ones To Watch 2026/27 cohort, bringing together 10 producers and creators from across Australia.

For the first time, the program features two dedicated pathways, Ones To Watch Producers and Ones To Watch Creators, reflecting the increasingly diverse ways Australian screen practitioners are building careers, audiences and businesses.

Spanning scripted and factual content, feature film, documentary, animation, comedy, digital and creator-led production, this year's cohort brings together practitioners with a broad range of creative and professional experience. From award-winning filmmakers and producers developing internationally focused projects to practitioners building audiences through digital platforms and creator-owned IP, the cohort reflects the breadth of contemporary Australian screen storytelling.

Over six months, participants will take part in a tailored professional development program, receive one-on-one mentorship from experienced Australian screen practitioners and build the industry knowledge, networks and connections to support the next stage of their careers.

Participants receive discounted registration and access to curated industry meetings and networking opportunities at SCREEN FOREVER in May 2027, where they will have opportunities to pitch their projects to potential buyers and partners and connect with leading Australian and international screen executives.

Participants are eligible to apply for the Ones To Watch Screen Placement, supported by Screen Australia, providing a $20,000 contribution towards an international industry placement.

The Ones To Watch Creators for 2026/27 are:

Maggie Looke (VIC)

Saksham Sharma (NSW)

Sebastian Chan (ACT)

Tak Nakano (NSW)

Tresa Ponnor (NSW)

The Ones To Watch Producers for 2026/27 are:

Andy Huang (VIC)

Carlos Manrique Clavijo (SA)

Devina McPherson (WA)

Michael Long (WA)

Rizcel Gagawanan (NSW)

Since its inception, Ones To Watch has supported more than 180 early-career screen practitioners, with alumni progressing to commissioning roles, establishing production businesses, undertaking international placements and producing acclaimed Australian screen projects.

The Ones To Watch 2026/27 mentors will be announced later this year.

Link to Ones To Watch website.

Link to media image.

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