BAFTA announces 900 new members joining since 2020

BAFTA has announced that over 900 industry professionals have joined its global membership since 2020 as the arts charity continues to work towards growing an inclusive membership representing the very best of the film, games and television industries. 

BAFTA has also opened applications for its new membership tier, Connect, specifically created for emerging and mid-level professionals across the UK and North America to join BAFTA at an earlier point in their careers. Connect offers creatives working in film, games and television the opportunity to strengthen professional networks and access a range of career development activity, including networking opportunities, workshops and masterclasses, as well as make use of the redeveloped space at BAFTA 195 Piccadilly. 

Successful applicants for Connect will join new full members including: Akua Gyamfi, Anna Dick, Bobby Krlic, Brad Pitt, Caroline O’Neill, Fiona Shaw, Isobel Waller-Bridge, Jennifer Hampson, Kate Herron, Lulu Wang, Mark Bridges, Micheal Ward, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Roger Clark, Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù, Vanessa Kirby, Waad Al-Kateab and Woody Jackson. Individuals selected for BAFTA’s flagship new talent initiatives, Breakthrough and Elevate, are also welcomed as new members.  

Krishnendu Majumdar, chair of BAFTA, said: “BAFTA continues to be committed to driving more inclusive industries and promoting unheard voices in the screen arts. Members are at the heart of everything we do and we’re always looking for talented people to join our global membership, whether they’re in the earlier stages of their careers or have more experience. I encourage anyone who shares our values to apply.” 

Waad Al-Kateab said: “As a journalist and filmmaker, I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of BAFTA’s global community. By joining, I had the opportunity to meet and connect with professionals from all different backgrounds and walks of life, as well as to connect with people who, like me, are passionate about ensuring our creative screen industries authentically shape and reflect the world around us.”   

As part of the Review in 2020 BAFTA announced proactive steps to increase diversity within its membership and become a more diverse, inclusive and representative organisation. Since September 2020, BAFTA has invited over 500 people from underrepresented groups across film, games and television to join its membership and is on target to invite 1,000 in two years.