Film Independent, the nonprofit arts organisation that produces the Spirit Awards, will honour three Film Independent alumni whose work has “helped shape the independent film and television landscape” with the 2026 Film Independent Changemaker Awards.
Filmmaker Alysa Nahmias (Cookie Queens), filmmaker Robbie Pickering (Gaslit) and editor Harry Yoon (Michael) will be recognised at the 23rd Artist Development Showcase, an annual celebration of short films made by Film Independent supported filmmakers, on 21 July 2026 at the Directors Guild of America Theater.
“Each year, the Changemaker honourees represent the lasting impact of Film Independent’s Artist Development programmes through their body of work and contributions uplifting future generation of artists,” Film Independent said.
Each honouree is a Film Independent Fellow, an alumnus of the Artist Development programmes.
Nahmias participated in the 2013 Fast Track finance market and the 2020 Documentary Lab.
Pickering was supported in the 2006 Screenwriting Lab, the 2007 Directing Lab and the 2007 Fast Track finance market.
And Yoon is an alumnus of Project Involve in 2004.
Recipients are selected by the Artist Development team.
“We are proud to celebrate visionary artists whose bold storytelling expands our cultural landscape and whose commitment to mentorship ensures a vibrant future,” said Angela C. Lee, director of Artist Development.
“Alysa Nahmias, Robbie Pickering and Harry Yoon exemplify artistic excellence, generosity and impact, demonstrating what it means to lead as changemakers in our industry.”
More information is available on the Film Independent website.
