Belize’s Women Animators Complete Bootcamp Program

Seventy-six women and girls from Corozal, Orange Walk, and Belize districts have successfully completed an Animation Bootcamp and were celebrated at an award ceremony earlier today. Out of the seventy-six participants, nineteen entered the animation contest. Ms. Sogelyn Cabrera took home first place, while second place was shared by Ms. Ayanna Leslie and Ms. Inmaculada Sanchez. Miss Priscilla Acosta secured third place. Here’s News Five’s Isani Cayetano with the full story.

 

Sogelyn Cabrera, Participant

“I knew what I did was wonderful, I put a whole bunch of hours into it and it was just a wonderful experience. It was just, all throughout, a wonderful opportunity and I’m gonna say it again, I thank all of those people who went out of their way to give Belize this chance to all women and girls.”

 

Women are vital to the animation world, adding richness, diversity, and innovation that make it a more vibrant and dynamic art form. They bring unique perspectives and experiences that enhance storytelling and character development, resulting in content that’s more relatable and inclusive for everyone.

 

Thea Garcia-Ramirez, Chair, National Women’s Commission

“It is truly an honor to join you all today as we celebrate, really, the culmination of the incredible animation bootcamp.  And my, what an inspiring journey it has been to witness the creativity, determination and innovation of our young women and women as they explored the great big world of animation.”

 

Priscilla Acosta is one of several talented women who dove into an intense training program to master the art of bringing drawings, models, and computer-generated images to life, creating the magic of movement. Women animators have crafted some of the most beloved and culturally significant works in animation, shaping the industry and leaving a lasting impact on popular culture.

 

Priscilla Acosta, Participant

“It was a lot of hours; and not just working, it was a lot of hours crying.  My husband can attest to that.  He says that’s my process of working.  Like I challenge myself, I can’t do it.  I get frustrated, I cry, then I go back and, “Wow, look at what I did, right.”

 

The animation bootcamp, led by the Taiwanese Embassy, was a fantastic initiative. Having women in animation means female characters are portrayed more authentically and with greater depth. This kind of representation is crucial for audiences of all ages, especially young girls who can see themselves reflected in these stories.

 

Lily Li-Wen Hsu, Taiwanese Ambassador

“Among the numerous bilateral collaborative projects our two nations work together, the Women’s Empowerment Project is the most rewarding one.  With the transformative power of technology and digital artistry, Taiwan is very proud to play a part in this wonderful program and accompany these talented participants in your journey of empowerment.”

 

Women in leadership roles within animation studios inspire and mentor the next generation of animators, fostering a more inclusive and supportive industry.  They have been at the forefront of creative innovation in animation, contributing to groundbreaking techniques and styles that push the boundaries of the medium.

 

Kevin Bernard, Keynote Speaker

“Animation is more than just an art form.  It is a dynamic segment of the orange economy, blending creativity with technology.  There are countries like Chile, Guatemala and Panama who have recognized its potential and so now Belize is joining their ranks.  This bootcamp, ladies and gentlemen is a testament to our commitment to advancing Belize’s position in the global digital services arena.”