ContentAsia Awards

Roxanne Barcelona

Philippines

Roxanne Barcelona has spent 42 years in Asia’s broadcast/content industry, most recently as vice president/consultant of GMA Network Inc’s Worldwide Division, where she was responsible for the distribution of GMA’s content worldwide. She held various roles at GMA during her 27+ years with the Philippines’ network, including 23 years with GMA Worldwide, where she headed both content acquisition and distribution.

Tanya Bautista-Navarro

Head of Creative, ABS-CBN International Productions, Philippines

Tanya is an award-winning writer and creative force from Manila, whose journey into storytelling began with an unexpected twist. While initially applying to the news department of ABS-CBN Corporation (now ABS-CBN Studios), a spontaneous brainstorming session revealed a hidden talent – and a new path into film and television. She has since produced 18 series, anthologies and a feature film, winning recognition for her ability to weave emotionally resonant, culturally rooted and universally appealing stories. In her current role, she leads the development of original content for global audiences.

Ruel Bayani

Writer / Director / Producer, Philippines

Ruel Bayani is a prominent figure in Philippine media, best known for writing directing and producing dramas both for film and television. He was behind acclaimed primetime TV dramas like “Iisa Pa Lamang” (2008), “Tayong Dalawa” (2009) and “Budoy” (2011) as well as box office films like “No Other Woman” (2011), “One More Try” (2012). As head of ABS-CBN International Productions, he line produced the pilot season of “Almost Paradise” (2020), Prime Video’s “Cattleya Killer”, and the upcoming “The Bagman”. After more than a decade leading content strategy and global expansion, Bayani has stepped away from his corporate role at ABS-CBN Studios to resume his one true passion – filmmaking.

Preeti Bhattacharyya

Senior Associate, Tulsea, India

Preeti is a Senior Associate in the Writers and Directors division at Tulsea, a strategic talent and content management agency representing India’s foremost filmmaking talent. Tulsea’s clients work across a diverse range of platforms, including film, television, digital media, and publishing, catering to markets in India, the U.S., U.K., and other emerging content regions. Passionate about Asian content, Preeti authored a memo titled – Korean Wave: Decoding The Hallyu Phenomenon and is developing a long-term creative initiative at Tulsea, with an emphasis on feature film projects that aim to shape the future of Indian cinema.

Theodore Boborol

Film and television director and screenwriter

Theodore Capistrano Boborol is a celebrated Filipino film and television director and screenwriter. A cum laude graduate in Broadcast Communication from the University of the Philippines–Diliman, he began his career in 2000 as a creative researcher for Star Cinema. He directed the teen romantic-comedy “Just  the Way  You  Are” (2015), gaining widespread acclaim with “Vince  and  Kath  and  James” (2016) and helming “Finally  Found  Someone” (2017), one of the Philippines’ highest-grossing films. His résumé includes acclaimed drama series like “Angelito: Batang Ama”, “Be My Lady” and “Araw Gabi”. In digital, he broke ground directing “Sparks Camp” (2023), the Philippines’ first queer dating reality series.

Marco Bresciani

Executive Producer, Creative Director & Founder, C9 Media

Marco boasts two decades of experience in the entertainment industry, having held key production positions at MTV/Paramount, Turner and Fox/Disney. His portfolio includes directing performances by Kanye West and Lady Gaga, producing talk shows featuring Tom Cruise, and contributing to numerous unscripted formats, such as “Asia’s Next Top Model”. In 2016, he successfully founded Eyedid.it, a digital creative agency with offices in Hong Kong, Singapore and Saigon. He is currently Partner and Head of Production at C9 Media, an award-winning production house based in Singapore and Hong Kong.

Anthony Buncio

SVP of Streaming, Screenplay Films

Anthony has over 20 years of experience working in the U.S. and Asia as a senior content executive and producer/showrunner. He currently spearheads creative development & content strategy for one of Indonesia’s major film/TV studios, Screenplay Films. His latest series include “Zona Merah”, “Ratu Adil” and “Pertaruhan” for Vidio, and “Mendua” and “Tira”, for Disney+ Hotstar. Prior roles include regional EP for iflix and launching global formats with Fox Networks Group, Sony Pictures and CBS Studios Int’l. Anthony started his career in the U.S. as a line producer on feature films and supervising producer.

Sean Chadwell

Executive director, Blue Chair

Sean has a Ph.D. in literature from Texas A&M University and has lived in the U.S., India, China and Laos. In some places he has worked as a university professor – teaching film studies, American literature, and writing – and in others he has spent his time writing and editing. He joined Blue Chair (formerly the Luang Prabang Film Festival) in 2014 as a volunteer and returned to Laos in 2019 as executive director, producing a pandemic-era virtual festival in 2020, live festivals in 2022/2024, and expanding the impact of the Lao Filmmakers Fund, the most significant source of domestic support for Lao film projects.

Vickie Chang

Founder & CEO, Rising Storm Global Entertainment Ltd.

Vickie brings over 25 years of experience in the U.S. entertainment industry, with credits spanning film, TV, music videos, and global campaigns. Having worked with major brands like Amazon, Disney, and Univision, she returned to Taipei in 2021 to spotlight Taiwanese culture globally. A University of Maryland marketing graduate and AWE member, Vickie is dedicated to empowering the next generation of Taiwanese artists while bridging international creative communities through her work and leadership.

George Chien

Co-Founder, President, and CEO, KC Global Media Entertainment

George  is the Co-Founder, President and CEO of KC Global Media Entertainment, headquartered in Los Angeles and currently based in Taiwan. Chien began his career at Ernst & Young and previously served at United Talent Agency, Walt Disney Company and most recently as EVP of Sony Pictures Television, helping launch the India Premier League (IPL) and spearheading the acquisition of Funimation. Under his leadership, KC Global Media continues to expand its footprint across Asia with flagship brands like AXN, Animax, ONE, GEM, KCM, and the recently launched AXN Sports.

Cindy Chino

Co-founder, GM Japan, Empire of Arkadia (EOA)

Cindy is a leading international business development executive in Japan with 36 years of experience in both creative & commercial. Before EOA, she worked for commercial broadcaster, Nippon TV, in production/news and global strategy & sales, and led the international sales team for more than seven years. She was behind the roll out of non-scripted titles such as “Masquerade”, “Old Enough!” and “Block Out” and scripted titles including “Mother”. Currently in close alignment with both local and global partners, her primary focus is to execute strategy for Japanese creatives to cross further borders.

Justin Deimen

Managing Partner, Goldfinch International

Justin Deimen is a systems-oriented cultural strategist and media entrepreneur working across the creative economy to shape societal narratives, capital flows and institutional futures. Operating at the intersection of art, finance, Web3/AI and humanity, he specialises in developing and scaling sustainable creative ecosystems – aligning IP, commercialisation, trade policy and talent across global markets. His work spans film/TV, performing arts, media-tech, branded entertainment, gaming, sports, licensing, fundraising and M&A. ance, private equity and venture/impact capital.

John Dykes

Sports broadcaster, Freelance

John Dykes is a globally recognised sports broadcaster, who has presented and commentated on FIFA World Cups, international cricket, the Olympics, tennis Grand Slams, golf Majors, F1 and more during his time with ESPN Star Sports. He was the international face of the Premier League. Today, John is also an in-demand event host, speaker and coach who offers insights into communication and presentation skills, leadership, winning habits and peak performance – all gleaned from a 25-year career spent covering the biggest games and names in the business.

Jose Escalante

CEO-Director, Latin Media Corporation

Jose has been CEO-director of international acquisition, production and distribution company, Latin Media Corp., since September 2009. The company maintains strong content links with Asia, acquiring series from, among other markets, Malaysia, Thailand, Korea, China, Vietnam, The Philippines  India, and Taiwan, for distribution in Latin America, and the US, the company also distributes series and Telenovelas from Latin America in Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Jose’s previous roles include president and CEO at Dori Media and CEO and vice president at RCTV International.

Magdalene Ew

Head of Content, Streaming, APAC at Warner Bros. Discovery

Magdalene leads the content team for streaming at Warner Bros. Discovery in Asia Pacific, including content strategy, programming, merchandising and acquisition. Having led the Original Production team previously, Magdalene was also responsible for producing HBO Asia Originals, including “On The Job”, a crime thriller series nominated at the 50th International Emmy® Awards for Best TV Movie/Mini-Series. A marketing and content veteran with over 20 years of regional experience, she previously worked at the Singapore Grand Prix, MTV Asia, Nike and Discovery Channel.

Patrick Frater

Consultant and media industry journalist, F Media

Based in Hong Kong and Bangkok, Patrick Frater has over 20 years of experience writing about and analysing the international entertainment industry. He has worked with publications including Screen International, The Hollywood Reporter and Film Business Asia. He was Asia editor of Variety between 2005 and 2009 and between 2013 and November 2024.

Scott Freeman

Executive Producer and the Board of Governors for the Television Academy

Scott is an Emmy-winning Executive Producer whose credits include The Challenge (MTV), Stars in Danger: The High Dive (Fox) and scripted film, Pedro, among many others. Currently developing and pitching unscripted programmes, Scott was a 25+ year veteran of reality powerhouse Bunim/Murray Productions (BMP) with EVP titles in original production, development and international. He was involved with shows such as The Real World, Road Rules and The Simple Life, played a key role in format development and international acquisitions, and worked closely with Banijay’s global production companies after BMP was acquired. Scott serves on the Board of Governors for the Television Academy.

Shuning Fu

Regional Content Acquisition Manager, PCCW

Shuning is Regional Content Acquisition Manager for PCCW and regional streaming platform Viu. Before joining PCCW in August this year, she was director of programming and acquisition for regional channels operator, KC Global Media, heading the acquisition of Asian content for Korean and Japanese entertainment channels, ONE and GEM. Prior to KC Global Media, Shuning managed the acquisition of Asian content for Sony Pictures Entertainment and was the business strategist for brand & segment marketing for Singapore telco, Singtel.

Danny Fung

Danny began his career in the media-content business more than two decades ago writing for film directors John Woo and Tsui Hark, producing live radio shows for Hong Kong’s Metro Broadcast, and content production, acquisitions, programming, strategic development of short & long-form, as well as  brand management and digital transformation and migration, starting with TVB HK, followed by Indosiar (Jakarta), NBC Asia, Disney Studios, Turner Broadcasting/WarnerMedia), Viacom Int’l Media Networks – Paramount, and most recently as VP/Head of Content, Programming & Operations for KC Global Media.

Henry Fung

VP of Content Development and International Distribution, Viu

Henry is VP of Content Development and International Distribution at Viu, PCCW’s pan-regional OTT video streaming service. Since joining the PCCW Media Group, he has held a wide range of roles spanning content, business development, and international functions across different units.  As one of Viu’s founding team members, he has been at the forefront of the company’s evolution — from laying commercial foundations and forging regional partnerships in the early days, to shaping content strategies that fuel growth.

Jonathan Glazier

Format Creator

Jonathan Glazier is a globally respected format creator and multi-camera director with a standout reputation across Southeast Asia. He is currently developing original shows for broadcasters and platforms in the Philippines, Bhutan, India and Singapore, following three recent commissions in the region. Jonathan previously served as Head of Light Entertainment and International Formats at the BBC, where he helped shape global entertainment output. His credits include three series of “Asia’s Got Talent”, solidifying his role as a trusted creative force in large-scale international productions.

Benjamin Goh

Head of Post Production & Technology, Space Lion Studios

Benjamin brings over two decades of experience in the television and media industry, with a background that spans producing, editing, lecturing and consulting across genres such as documentaries, drama, sports, trailers and advertising. As Head of Post & Technology, Benjamin oversees the company’s post-production, camera, and IT operations – managing technical teams, ensuring quality control, and leading the continual development of BHP’s facilities. He also spearheads the company’s AI research and innovation initiatives.

Goh Ling Ling

VP, Ideation & Scripting Chinese Drama Production, Mediacorp

Currently, Ling Ling lead the Chinese creative team at Mediacorp Chinese Drama Productions, where she oversee concept development, ideation, casting, and research. As the head of the Scripting Team, she drive the team’s success by fostering creativity and innovation, generating story ideas that align with current trends, and crafting compelling narratives that captivate audiences.

Gunawan Goony

Professional in Programming, Creative Concept, Content Curation & Acquisition/Distribution

Gunawan Goony is a veteran Indonesian TV executive and one of the country’s best-known programmers on the international stage. Over decades at free-TV networks ANTV and TPI, he has been behind major hits including Bawang Putih Berkulit Merah and Karma, played a key role in reviving Indian epics Mahabharata and Ramayana, and helped popularise Thai and Latin American dramas in Indonesia. He also spearheaded the reality series Expedisi Merah. Active on social media, Gunawan runs his own YouTube channel and has served as a ContentAsia Awards jury member for four consecutive years.

Quark Henares

Director

Quark Henares is a multi-awarded filmmaker known for having written and directed feature films such as Where is The Lie?, Rakenrol and Keka, which Variety magazine reviewed as “a refreshing change of pace for Philippine cinema” and Quentin Tarantino called  “a hell of a lot of fun”. As the head of Globe Studios, he executive produced films such as On The Job: The Missing 8, Leonor Will Never Die and Goyo:The Boy General. Most recently he was the Head of Originals, Philippines, for Amazon MGM Studios. 

Richard Hickey

Chief Creative Officer, Moonbug Entertainment

With over 20 years of experience in film and television, Richard is celebrated as one of the most versatile creatives in the children’s entertainment industry. At Moonbug, he oversees the creative direction for all core and premium original IPs, including CoComelon, Blippi and Little Baby Bum, and leads the creative process across platforms. Hickey also oversaw Moonbug’s launch of three longer format streaming series and has led the expansion of Moonbug properties into other formats, including a recently announced CoComelon movie. He previously developed kids content both independently and at studios such as DreamWorks, Sony Pictures Animation and Paramount Pictures.

Jin Woo Hwang

Co-founder, President & EP, Something Special

The co-founder of Korea’s 1st format production agency, Jin Woo has produced 40+ primetime TV shows and developed 112 original formats. He was previously CJ ENM Media’s head of Formats & Content Development (Content Division) and head of Global Content Development (Solution Division), and has been a production consultant in 22 territories. Jin Woo is a FRAPA General Board Member, and the Korean Format Alliance chair (Dec 2021-2024). In 2018, he was awarded a Prime-Minister citation for dedication to Korean content. His production/development credits include: Better Late Than Never, I Can See Your Voice & Love at First Song.

Mrinalini Jain

Group Chief Development Officer, Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India

Mrinalini is a fast-rising force in India’s content development space, from her start as a creative producer to her current role as Group Chief Development Officer at production companies, Banijay Asia and EndemolShine India, where she drives strategic content expansion across Asia. She has a holistic approach to content development, and has been at the forefront of shaping the Hindi streaming landscape across fiction and non-fiction formats. This includes partnerships with BBC Studios and CBS — from The Trial (an adaptation of “The Good Wife”), to remakes of the Night Manager, among others.

Raju Jayakumar

Deputy Chief Editor of Content Commissioning and Planning, Mediacorp

With over two decades of experience, Raju leads the commissioning team for CNA, the regional news and current affairs wing of Singapore’s national media network Mediacorp, responsible for award-winning documentaries like “Black Thursday”, “The Negotiators” and “The Mark of Empire”. In the past year, he spearheaded the launch of the CNA FAST channel, now available on platforms like Freeview in the U.K. and Amasian TV in the U.S. The FAST channel is a curated blend of CNA’s best programmes, aiming to give viewers in the West a single destination to ‘Understand Asia’, as the channel’s tagline suggests.

Jessica Kam-Engle

EVP & Business Head – SE Asia, CreAsia Studio

Jessica is EVP & Business Head for CreAsia Studio, established in 2024 to drive Banijay Asia’s Southeast Asia expansion. CreAsia Studio produces local originals and Banijay format adaptations. She was previously Head of Content & Development for Disney+ APAC, where she commissioned more than 60 original series; and Head of Original Production at HBO Asia/WarnerMedia. Before HBO, Jessica was an independent producer based in Beijing, producing 10 feature films including The Piano in a Factory and Just Another Pandora’s Box. She previously held regional marketing & sales roles at Celestial Pictures, MTV Asia, MGM Gold Network and Dow Jones Newswires.

InSoon Kim

Co-Founder, Executive Vice President, and Head of Content, Something Special

InSoon has more than 18 years of experience in a range of roles, including Researcher at Content Formatting Lab (Korea’s first TV format R&D lab), Format Specialist at CJ E&M, Producer at Global Productions, SBS; and MD at FormatEast (SBS’ format IP development affiliate). She is currently Adjunct Professor at Korea’s National University of Arts, and Judge and a Member of International Emmys Awards Organization. Her format development/distribution credits include: “The Beatbox” (co-created with Fremantle Netherlands), “Tiny Desk Korea” (LG U+), and “Unforgettable Duet” (2025).

Kyo Kim

VP, Mays Entertainment, Korea

Kyo is a seasoned media executive and the producer behind Netflix’s Trauma Code, a global success that ranked #1 in 13 countries and made the Top 10 in 26 territories. His leadership on the project reflects a sharp instinct for globally compelling storytelling and strategic execution in high-impact content. As VP at Mays Entertainment, Kyo leads creative and production strategies with a global audience in mind. His background spans both drama and music content, having previously worked on a range of scripted series and managed K-pop productions during a decade in the entertainment industry.

Vanita Kohli-Khandekar

Journalist & Author, India

Vanita has been tracking India’s media & entertainment business for two decades. She is a columnist and writer for Indian financial daily, Business Standard, and contributes to ContentAsia. The Media Room, her media and entertainment podcast, is hosted on The Core. A Cambridge University press fellow (2000), Vanita has taught at top media schools in India. Her signature book, The Indian Media Business (Sage) is in its fifth edition. Her second book, The Making of Star India – the story of Rupert Murdoch’s India Adventure (Penguin-Random House), is being developed into a TV series. She is now working on a book on Indian cinema.

David Kwok

Founder & CEO, Tiny Island Productions

Under David’s leadership, stereoscopic 3D animation studio Tiny Island has partnered with giants like DreamWorks Classics, Saban Entertainment and South Korea’s Electric Circus (co-producing G-Fighter), delivering content to 80+ countries. The studio is known for its work on Dream Defenders (aired on Sony’s 3net, Hulu, Amazon Prime) and the Ben 10 CGI Telemovie (Cartoon Network). A pioneer in Singapore’s CGI industry, David founded the Singapore Animators Connection (SAC) and drives innovation as an AI application consultant, merging cutting-edge tech with creative storytelling.

Stephane Lambert

Producer, Filmmaker & Founder, BKK DOC, Bangkok International Documentary Awards Festival

Stephane crafts documentaries focusing on Southeast Asian people and cultures. He is also the host of the Filming in Thailand Podcast.

Leslie Lee

Media Practitioner and Consultant

Leslie has over two decades’ experience in media in Asia, across a range of roles, including content curation and development, and has worked at MediaCorp (Kids/Arts Central), Viacom (Nickelodeon Asia Pac), The Walt Disney Company SEA and Warner Bros Discovery Asia Pac. He spearheaded the creation of Mickey Go Local and Tom & Jerry In Singapore, two award-winning original animated series and was Executive Producer for Cartoon Network’s Lamput, nominated for an International Emmy Award for Best Animated Series in 2019. He is currently consulting on three animated series all slated for 2026, and a comic book project, due out in December 2025.

Marianne Lee

Chief Content Officer, Viu

Marianne is a content professional with a career built around fan generation. She has held senior leadership positions in both content and marketing. She is currently the Chief Content Officer at Viu, PCCW’s leading pan-regional video streaming service, available in 16 markets across Asia, the Middle East and South Africa. She leads a team of content professionals in production, acquisition & curation, driving the overall content strategy to deliver business objectives that resonates across multiple markets. Before Viu, she worked for major U.S. media brands (HBO, Turner, NBC Universal, Sony) and Hong Kong-based broadcast giant TVB.

Thean-jeen (TJ) Lee

Founder & Managing Director, Weiyu Films

Thean-jeen (TJ) is one of Singapore’s most respected and prolific showrunners. An accomplished director and screenwriter with over three decades of experience in television and film, he has built a reputation for crafting powerful, emotionally-resonant stories. He is the founder of production company Weiyu Films, which specialises in high quality, award-winning content, including WWII epic This Land is Mine, the popular 128 Circle, and five seasons of Code of Law. TJ’s work has screened on Netflix, Viu, Amazon Prime and Disney+, and earned recognition from awards and festivals around the world. He is currently showrunning a major long-form drama adapted from a renowned Singaporean novel.

Sandie Lee

EVP & Channel Head, Rewind Networks

Sandie is a seasoned television executive with over four decades of experience in the media industry. She currently leads content, acquisitions, marketing and communications at Rewind Networks, a regional channel operator behind HITS, HITS Now, and HITS Movies. As part of Rewind Networks’ founding team, Sandie played a key role in shaping the company’s editorial and strategic direction. Prior to that, she served as Vice President of Content at StarHub, where she spearheaded the development and launch of locally packaged channels and was instrumental in bringing several international channels to Singapore. Sandie began her career at the Television Corporation of Singapore (now Mediacorp).

Michael Lim

Festival Director, Animation Nation / Founder, Animation Nation

A qualified film archivist, Michael has served as jury member of Siggraph Asia 2023 and judge for the Heroes Int’l Film Festival in Rome and the Global Entertainment Awards. With extensive film & TV experience since 1999, he has contributed to projects like Moulin Rouge and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Michael played a key role in the Singapore Int’l Film Festival relaunch, and remains a company member. As a film director, he worked with Jackie Chan for a global UNICEF PSA and co-founded the first Australian chapter of ACM Siggraph. He served as the Assistant Director for the ANDA MFA programme at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts Asia in Singapore.

Steven Lim

Director of Development, Viu Malaysia

Steven heads up script and story development for Viu Malaysia’s original productions. He has 21 years of experience in various roles in the Malaysian broadcast, entertainment and animation industry. Prior to Viu, Steven was the executive producer at Genting Studios. As executive producer at Young Jump Animation, he oversaw the production team that produced Saladin: The Animated Series, which earned an International Emmy nomination in 2011. Steven’s credits at Viu include Original series such as Seribu Nina, She Was Pretty, Hilang, Nenek Bongkok Tiga, Terlanjur Cinta, From Saga With Love 1 & 2, Nafsu, The Secret and Gadis Masa.

Virginia Lim

Chief Content Officer, Mediacorp (Singapore)

Virginia joined Mediacorp in Singapore in July 2021. She was previously chief content officer for PCCW Media’s Viu streaming platform, which she joined in 2019 after more than a decade at Sony Pictures Television Networks Asia in various roles, including SVP and GM responsible for distribution, ad revenue and content strategy for five regional channels – AXN, ONE, GEM, Animax & Sony Channel. Before joining Sony’s Asia networks division in 2008 as programming director for Animax Asia, Virginia worked for Singapore-based pay-TV platform StarHub for about 10 years. Prior to StarHub, she was a current affairs producer for Mediacorp.

Jay Lin

Founder & CEO, Portico Media & GagaOOLala

Through Portico Media, Jay has launched over 20 international channels in Taiwan through partnerships with media giants like NBCUniversal and Viacom, and produces thousands of viral videos via HahaTai, Taiwan’s top street interview YouTube channel. In 2017, he launched GagaOOLala, now the world’s largest LGBTQ+, BL & GL streaming platform with over 5m members. Through GOL STUDIOS, Jay has overseen 60+ original titles, including the internationally acclaimed Fragrance of the First Flower and Boys Like Boys, Taiwan’s first LGBTQ+ reality format licensed to Warner Bros. Discovery, cementing Taiwan’s leading role in global LGBTQ+, BL & GL storytelling.

Loh Woon Woon

VP for Chinese Drama Productions and also EP for Emerald Hill, Mediacorp

Woon Woon won her first Best Director Award for the drama series Against the Tide at Singapore’s Star Awards 2015, followed in 2022 with the same award for Key Witness. In her dual role as director and producer since 2018, she has directed and produced three web series, including The Distance Between, 95% shot across Australia. Her first TV drama series, fantasy romance Hello from the Other Side, attracted more than 1.8 million viewers across TV and digital platforms in Singapore, and was nominated for Best Drama at the 2021 Star Awards. She helmed the production of Mediacorp’s biggest IP, Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story.

Geoffrey Low

Senior Content Relations Manager, Dolby Singapore Pte Ltd

Geoffrey is instrumental in driving the adoption of Dolby technologies with content creators by developing a robust content production ecosystem in SEA/ANZ with the ultimate aim of delivering spectacular consumer experiences. From as early as the design stage to the commissioning stage, Geoffrey enables production studios equipped with Dolby technologies while fostering close relationships with existing content studios. With over 20 years of experience, Geoffrey comes from a production background in audio where he had worked passionately on numerous television shows, music releases and live concerts. Geoffrey has also been an educator in the audio technology industry.

May Wah Lwin

Channels Editorial Manager, Canal+ Myanmar

May Wah is senior channels editorial manager for CANAL+ Myanmar, responsible for managing nine in-house channels across a range of genres. She was responsible for launching the highest-rated original TV series on the platform as well as a local sports channel. May Wah has been involved in the broadcast media industry for the past 16 years.

Edgar Joseph (EJ) Mallari

Head of Productions, ABS-CBN International Productions

Edgar Joseph, widely known as EJ, is a homegrown producer at the Philippines’ leading content provider, ABS-CBN Studios. In the past decade, he has produced numerous top-rating shows, including Bagong Umaga (New Beginnings), Nang Ngumiti ang Langit (Mikaela) and Wildflower, receiving notable recognition within and outside of the country. He also served as the Supervising Producer for international crime thriller Cattleya Killer and political action series The Bagman. Currently, he is the Head of Productions for ABS-CBN International Productions.

Bill McQueen

Founder/MD/Chief Content Officer, Lime* Content Studios

With over three decades of production experience at some of the world’s biggest networks, including Disney, Cartoon Network, MTV and SKY UK, Bill has worked in every facet of broadcast TV. For close to a decade, he was also the Creative Director at Fox International Channels/National Geographic Channels Asia, where he created a powerhouse creative department winning over 35 Promax Awards. As the Managing Director and Chief Content Officer at Lime* Content Studios Hong Kong, he is responsible for guiding his team through a steady stream of global short- & long-form media projects.

Kyle Murdoch

Managing Director, Nature Film NZ / Commercial Strategy Lead, IFA Group

Kyle is a chief executive, company director and multi-Emmy nominated producer with 25 years of experience in media industries in the U.K., the U.S., Asia and New Zealand. He worked for Star TV and News Corp in Beijing before establishing NHNZ Ltd.’s Beijing Office in 2010. He returned to NZ in 2012 and was MD/CEO of NHNZ Ltd from 2013-2020. In 2021, he founded Nature Film and continues to produce impact content for the Asia-Pacific region, working with platforms such as CCTV, NHK & Tencent. In 2022, Kyle joined forces with Singapore-based IFA Media. His is Honorary New Zealand adviser to the Asia New Zealand Foundation, and Chair of Film Otago Southland.

Lynn Ng

Group VP, Head of Content Networks APAC and Head of Content Strategy Greater China & SEA, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD)

Lynn’s responsibilities include leading content editorial, content management and curation for the networks portfolio and driving development and delivery of overall content strategy regionally and in market. As WBD continues to grow its content offerings across the region, she spearheads regional franchise content initiatives, representing relevant local content opportunities on an international stage. Lynn is a multiple award-winning producer and a media executive with deep content expertise across APAC.

Ahmad Izham Omar

Chief Explorer, Komet Productions

Media and content veteran Izham is well-versed in the creative process of multiple content types, with an enviable track record across SE Asia. Currently Chief Explorer at his own set-up Komet, he was executive producer for Joko Anwar’s Siksa Kubur, Skop Productions’ Blood Brothers Bara Naga and Ejen Ali The Movie 2. Prior to Komet, Izham was Executive Director, Content & Creative, at The Walt Disney Company SEA. Before that he held various roles at Malaysian media conglomerate Media Prima, where he was CEO of Primeworks Studios and Media Prima TV Networks (TV3, 8TV, ntv7, TV9) and where he launched Malaysia’s first-ever OTT platform, tonton. Izham began his media career by launching and managing the successful 8TV urban FTA TV station after a music career as MD of urban label Positive Tone and A&R Director of EMI Malaysia.

Mickey Ong

SVP & GM, CJ ENM Hong Kong

Mickey has been involved in CJ ENM Hong Kong’s business activities in various roles since 2016, following about four years at Celestial Tiger Entertainment (CTE). Before that, he worked for Singapore broadcaster Mediacorp as well as Buena Vista Columbia TriStar theatrical distribution in Singapore.

Fotini Paraskakis

Founder and Director, Empire of Arkadia (EOA)

Fotini has been instrumental in building Asia’s formats industry. Over 30+ years of experience specialising in both creative & commercial, she has been involved in 400+ content deals across the region. In her role as MD of Endemol Shine Group, she created local superbrands such as Masterchef, Big Brother, Deal or No Deal, Fear Factor, The Bridge and Humans. She also built properties such as Idols, Got Talent and X Factor as Head of Content for Fremantlemedia Asia and, more recently, ran a content fund as Global MD for The Story Lab (Dentsu Inc). She moved to Asia in 1995, and is currently based in London and Singapore.

Swati Patnaik

Creative Director, Applause Entertainment

With over two decades of storytelling excellence, Swati is one of India’s foremost creative leaders in the entertainment industry. As creative director for Applause Entertainment, she drives the development of premium scripted & unscripted series for global streaming platforms. Her body of work includes shows like Tanaav, Undekhi, Black Warrant and Your Honour. Swati’s career spans a diverse portfolio, from youth drama and reality formats to hard-hitting crime fiction and cultural narratives. She has played a critical role in delivering pathbreaking originals for Netflix, Sony LIV, Zee5 and Jiostar.

Haryaty Rahman

EVP Distribution Asia, International, Fremantle

With over 20 years of experience in TV content sales, acquisitions and programming, Haryaty spearheads Fremantle’s finished content sales, format and brand licensing, FAST, and social media distribution in the pan-Asia region – working to bring some of the world’s most iconic TV franchises (Got Talent, Family Feud) and award-winning entertainment to screens and platforms all around the continent.

Paul Robinson

CEO, Creative Media Partners

Paul is a highly experienced international media exec with an impressive track record of success across radio, television and digital media having led teams to brand and revenue growth in senior roles at the BBC, The Walt Disney Company and NBC Universal (KidsCo). For the last three and a half years he has built the international business of Kartoon Studios Inc from zero to 69 countries creating and leading a team delivering linear and on-demand kids and family video channels worldwide. He has negotiated numerous major deals including with Samsung, HiSense, Astro, Linknet, StarTimes and LG.

Imillya Irwani Roslan

Director of Production, Viu (Southeast Asia)

With over 18 years of experience, Imillya has produced more than 30 films and series, earning multiple accolades and awards. Her feature film credentials include Malaysian box office successes that have also earned critical recognition such as Histeria, Papadom (1 & 2), Penanggal, Bikers Kental, Polis Evo, Langit Cinta and Tombiruo: Penunggu Rimba. At Viu, Imillya’s production credits include The Bridge 2, Isteri Misteri, Keluarga Baha Don (Seasons 2 & 3), Ganjil, Black (Season 2), Seribu Nina, She Was Pretty, Ijab Kabut, Hilang, Nenek Bongkok Tiga, From Saga With Love (Seasons 1 & 2), W: Two Worlds, Nafsu and The Secret.

Agnes Rozario

Chief Content Officer, Astro

A pioneer member of Astro and former Director of Content, Agnes was appointed Chief Content Officer in April 2025. She heads the Group’s content team across TV, digital, Sooka, Astro Shaw films and Rocketfuel Talent and Music business. Agnes prioritises innovation in story telling and engagement resulting in the regionalisation of Astro’s IP such as One Cent Thief and Project: High Council and a full slate of new signatures in 2025 such as Big Stage Alpha and Raise The Star Malaysia. Pushing the boundaries in creativity and production, she believes in amplification of content via 360 touch points, including sold out concerts.

Ryan Shiotani

SVP, Content, Asia & Greater China, BBC Studios

Ryan Shiotani is SVP, Content, Asia & Greater China for BBC Studios, responsible for leading the company’s editorial direction in Asia on all existing and new platforms. In his role, Ryan leads the team responsible for building a pipeline of Asian content for BBC Studios in Asia, exploring new partnerships across the region. Having joined BBC Studios (then BBC Worldwide) in 2007, Ryan has led the content strategy for brands including BBC Earth, BBC First, BBC Lifestyle, BBC Player and BBC Kids across linear and digital platforms in Asia for over 15 years. Ryan is also the regional business lead for Diversity & Inclusion where he applies a personal passion for D&I to help guide the direction of the business.

Leena Singarajah

Vice President – Media Sales Asia, CAA Eleven

Leena has been involved in the APAC industry for 30 years, spanning sports, entertainment and broadcast media. Her extensive experience covers commercial and growth strategy, securing distribution and managing broadcast and client relationships, financial performance and profitability. She has launched TV channels, created digital content platforms, built local and regional advertising sales franchises, and led businesses through digital transformation. She has also helped companies convert strategies from B2B to B2C. Before joining CAA Eleven, Leena worked for ESPN, ESPN STAR Sports, IMG, Scripps Networks and A+E Networks. 

Frank Smith

Showrunner, Founder, IFA

Frank started as a BBC documentary filmmaker specialising in conflict zones before founding IFA. A multi-award winning director, writer and showrunner, his work includes a DOP credit on License to Kill, Royal TV Society Doc of the year; producer of Royal TV Society nominee The Killer Wave and Dowry Cops, nominee for Amnesty’s Doc of the year 2004; and director of Peabody winner, A Year in The Clouds. He spearheaded IFA’s push into drama with Golden Bell award-winner The Teenage Psychic (HBO Asia), Nowhere Man (Netflix) and Thai series Forbidden (HBO Asia). In 2024, he produced the first of IFA’s horror slate, Operation Undead, a co-pro with Singapore’s 360, and is currently leading IFA’s immersive experience co-pro with PTS Taiwan.

Tom St John Gray

Documentary maker

Tom is an International Emmy-nominated director and producer with over 20 years’ experience in documentary filmmaking across the U.K. and Southeast Asia. His work has aired on major platforms including the BBC, Channel 4, National Geographic, History, Discovery, SBS Australia, Netflix and CNA. Passionate about history, travel, and culture, Tom holds an MA in Archaeology and Ancient History from the University of Edinburgh and an MA in Southeast Asian Studies from SOAS, University of London. His CNA series The Exiles won Gold for Best Factual Programme (Multiple Markets) at the 2023 ContentAsia Awards.

Makito (Mak) SUGIYAMA

Executive Director, Broadcast Program Export Association of Japan (BEAJ)

Makito is a distinguished veteran of the Japanese TV industry with over three decades of expertise in international content distribution and format licensing. He held key positions at Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS), where he was instrumental in the global expansion of iconic formats including Takeshi’s Castle and SASUKE/Ninja Warrior. Currently serving as Executive Director at BEAJ, he continues to bridge Japanese content with global audiences. His bicultural perspective is enriched by his experience as a bilingual narrator for over 300 commercials and his role assisting director Paul Schrader in the Japanese-American co-produced film, Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters, produced by Francis Ford Coppola and George Lucas.

Erlina Suharjono

Co-founder, I.E. Entertainment Pte Ltd

With over 30 years’ experience in the motion picture Industry, Erlina co-founded distribution & production house, I.E. Entertainment, in 2021. She previously spent 24 years with Warner Bros. Pictures International in various roles, including EVP Asia Distribution and MD of China & Hong Kong, helping to lead the continued growth, strategic direction and management of WBPI’s marketing and distribution operations throughout Asia during a period of intense growth and competition specifically in China, a tough market to crack in both censorship and limited film quota. She has also held multiple roles with Cathay Organisation (exhibitor & distributor).

Indra Suharjono

Co-founder, I.E. Entertainment Pte Ltd

Indra co-founded I.E. Entertainment, the exclusive worldwide distributor for BEC World, and advises the listed Thai company on its global content strategy. She is also the exclusive distributor of 8-part mini-series COOLIE, produced by Cathay Film Company, and was executive producer of Project Runway Thailand S1. In her 32+ years in Asia’s media & entertainment industry, held was CEO at Taiwan’s Next Animation Studio for 3 years, and spent a decade with Viacom Int’l Media Networks Asia, including as EVP & MD for Asia. She held senior positions with Warner Bros. Pictures Int’l, Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Turner Entertainment Networks Asia. Indra also serves on the board of Cathay Organisation Holdings.

Lina Tan

Founder, RED Communications/RED Films (Malaysia)

Lina is one of Malaysia’s most influential media producers and a driving force behind groundbreaking local content with global resonance. She founded Red Communications in 1999, producing award-winning and genre-defining television such as 3R (Respect, Relax, Respond), Impian Illyana, Oh My English! and SMK. She has worked with global networks such as Disney Channel, Discovery Channel, National Geographic and AETN. Lina has also produced 12 feature films and has received several accolades for her work. In 2024, she won the top prize in the Leadership Commitment category at the UN Women Malaysia WEPs Awards, recognising her continued dedication to gender equality and inclusive media practices.

Andrew Tan

Head of Content, StarHub

Andrew Tan is a seasoned content professional with a strong focus on building strategic partnerships across both linear and OTT platforms, delivering value to consumers in the entertainment space. As Head of Content at StarHub, he leads the company’s overall content strategy. Andrew previously held senior business development positions in the Cybersecurity and Data Analytics sectors, where he focused on driving awareness of emerging technologies and delivering solutions to enterprise clients. His career also includes roles at Maybank and Capgemini, further broadening his expertise across finance and consulting.

Redian Tandiana

Acquisition Manager, ANTV

Redian began his creative journey through a deep passion for storytelling and film production, earning multiple awards at local indie film festivals since 2009. This passion led him to a professional career as part of the Creative Team at free-TV service, Trans TV. He went on to produce for RCTI and is currently an Acquisition Manager at ANTV. With a strong production background, he brings a well-rounded perspective in evaluating and acquiring content, balancing creative vision with strategic value, and driving the innovative development of entertainment programmes and local series from end to end.

Matthew Teng

Principal Sound Designer, Mediacorp Audio Post

Matthew joined Mediacorp, Singapore’s national media network, in 2011. His repertoire includes creating captivating theme and sub-theme songs, having scored for a diverse array of dramas and films over the past decade. With his extensive knowhow, Matthew has participated in the audio post-production process for numerous local and international projects.

Khun Hong (Duangnapa) Termkraisri

AVP, IP & Contract Management, BEC World (Thailand)

Duangnapa (“Hong”) is responsible for all licensing contracts for BEC drama distribution. She was previously involved in content acquisition for 25 years, covering multiple genres including U.S. television series, theatrical movies, formats, animated series and documentary as well as sports and events for Thai free-TV network Channel 3. From 2011 to 2017, she was charged with distributing Channel 3 dramas to China and Southeast Asia.

Sari Trisulo

VP & Head of Production & Creative, KC Global Media

Sari leads original productions, brand creative, promotions and production services for AXN, Animax, ONE, KCM, AXN Sports and the in-house KCGM Studio. With 20+ years of experience across Asia, she brings strategic, solutions-driven leadership to content, storytelling and team-building. Her portfolio spans social content, global events and campaigns for brands like Google, Audible and Spotify. At VICE, MTV, Comedy Central and Discovery, she honed her expertise in premium and purpose-driven storytelling. Sari has led regional teams across Singapore, Jakarta, Mumbai, Tokyo and Seoul.

Sunita Uchil

Founder / CEO, Karman Unlimited

Sunita is a veteran media executive with over 30 years of experience spanning television, radio and print. Known for her strategic vision in international co-productions and content syndication, she played a key role in expanding Zee TV’s global footprint during her 15-year tenure. In Jan 2024 she founded Karman Unlimited, focused on premium co-productions and format adaptations in India and the MENA region, and also curates a catalogue of finished programming. A champion of factual co-productions, she was EP on science & wildlife titles such as The Life of Earth from Space and Lions: Now or Never.

Dave Ulmer

CEO, Cambodian Broadcasting Service Co., Ltd.

With over 20 years of experience at the nexus of technology and entertainment, Dave is a media innovator, transforming how consumers engage with content across platforms. As CEO of Cambodia’s leading TV broadcaster, Royal Group’s Cambodian Broadcasting Service, with the region’s largest digital platform that received over half a billion views of online broadcasts last year, Dave is pioneering dramatic changes in TV entertainment. He was previously CCO for Indonesia’s largest film and TV studio, MD of digital home for a major telco, media consultant, public speaker and occasional actor. He also authored The Innovator’s Extinction, and has a proven record in product innovation and business transformation.

Artine Utomo

CEO, RTV – Rajawali Televisi Indonesia

Artine is responsible for managing nationwide terrestrial TV station RTV’s overall portfolio, including curating compelling content for Indonesian viewers. Her mandate is to develop and expand RTV’s viewership and relevance, and deliver creative excellence. With almost two decades of experience in Indonesia’s broadcasting industry, her roles have included CEO of free-TV station PT Cipta TPI (2003-2009) and CEO of content development company PT Festival Citra (2011-2016).

Joe Wan

Senior Director of Content and Digital Strategy for Outdoor Channel, Multichannels Asia

Joe is the Senior Director of Content and Digital Strategy for Outdoor Channel in Asia Pacific, Australia and New Zealand. He is responsible for content acquisition, programming, channel operation, marketing and digital strategy. With over two decades of regional experience, he focuses on bringing in both localised and quality content from around the world. He previously held various roles for LeEco OTT China, RTL CBS in Singapore, Turner International, FOX, StarTV and PowerTV CTN Taiwan.

Lily Wang

SVP Production Asia, 9 Story/Brown Bag Films

Lily co-founded animation studio, Bali Animasi Solusi Ekakarsa (BASE), in 2015 in Indonesia with Daniel Harjanto. Prior to that, she worked globally throughout the animation industry, including Nickelodeon Burbank and Infinite Studios Batam. Lily’s production credits include TV series Franklin & Friends, Garfield, Peter Rabbit, Octonauts, Sonic Boom, Luna Petunia, Vampirina and Angele’s Christmas Wish. BASE was acquired by 9 Story Media Group in 2019, and Lily was appointed as SVP Production Asia to continue managing the operation and production for 9 Story/Brown Bag Films in Asia.

Derek Wong

Head, Viu Originals, Southeast Asia, Middle East & Africa

Derek oversees the overall strategic planning and content creation for Viu across SE Asia, Middle East and Africa, including Viu Original titles. Derek has over 25 years of television content production experience in both long and short forms and is responsible for some of Asia’s most successful television formats ever produced. Derek started his production career in the Hong Kong film industry and subsequently moved to the TV sector with Hong Kong TVB and STAR TV. He has worked at Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia and was previously VP & Head of Production and Creative Services for KC Global Media.

Kentaro Yabuki

Founder, Sunny Pictures

Kentaro is a highly experienced producer, director, format creator and showrunner with over 30 years in the television industry. After a successful career at Fuji Television, he now works internationally as a freelance content creator. Kentaro has developed numerous hit unscripted shows, specialising in comedy, music entertainment and variety formats. His credits include Japan’s legendary Red Carpet, Saturday Night Live Japan and The Masked Singer Japan. In 2024, he collaborated with renowned producers Park Wonwoo and Fotini Paraskakis to co-develop the new international format, 100 (Miracle 100).

Dennis Yang

CEO & Managing Partner, Studio76

Dennis is the founder of production house, Studio76, launched in 2019 with Taiwan’s National Development Fund and Japan’s Asahi Broadcast Group’s Dream Ventures. The company has garnered 30+ award nominations and 7 trophies from prestigious events such as the ContentAsia Awards. Studio76 also operates Studio886, a YouTube channels network generating more than 250m views in 2024, and launched Taiwan’s first FAST channel in the U.S. AIM2M rolls out in 2025, leveraging GenAI to transform film/series into webtoons. Dennis previously co-founded streaming service KKTV and has held management roles at MTV, Yahoo!, Warner Music and HTC.

Cora Yim

Chief Content Officer & Co-founder, Sixty Percent Productions

In her 30+ years in Asia’s film and TV industry, Cora has held key positions at major entertainment groups – Media Asia Group, Golden Harvest Entertainment & Fox Networks Group. Her projects include FOX original series The Trading Floor, co-produced with Andy Lau, Tencent Pictures’ drama Stained, and feature films Sara and More than Blue. Taiwan Crime Stories, co-produced with Hollywood’s Imagine Entertainment for Disney+, has won multiple international awards. She has developed forward-looking projects like The Marriage Drive and The Fixers. She has also launched programmes to nurture young talent.

Elyn Yong

Head, Distribution & Partnerships, PIK Film

Elyn is a seasoned content business strategist with over 15 years of hands-on experience in building and scaling content-driven platforms across Southeast Asia. She has worked closely with start-ups to develop and execute content strategies and acquisition plans, working directly with Chief Content Officers and senior executives. Her extensive portfolio includes key roles in the launch and growth of several major platforms, including TM’s first IPTV service HyppTV, regional OTT player iflix, and sooka, Astro Malaysia’s latest standalone OTT service.

Nini Yusof

CEO, Media Prima TV Networks and Primeworks Studios

In her dual networks and production leadership role, Nini operates at the core of Malaysia’s content creation and distribution. In 2025, Primeworks Studios produced and marketed Malaysia’s two highest-grossing films of the year and top five of all time – Blood Brothers and Ejen Ali The Movie 2. Nini’s leadership is marked by a spectrum of groundbreaking achievements, from dominating local production with quality documentaries and popular dramas, to capturing record-breaking social media engagement with innovative short-form content for younger audiences. Her successes also include launching the e-commerce platform Wowshop with CJ E&M. She previously worked at FOX, NBCUniversal and KPMG.