A conversation on how indie and student filmmakers can use emerging technologies to bring bold ideas to life, accelerate production, and reimagine what’s possible, without losing creative control.

 

How can filmmakers embrace new technology without losing their voice? This panel explores how indie and student creators are integrating emerging tools, like generative AI, immersive media, and creative automation—to develop bold ideas, streamline production, and unlock new creative possibilities on any budget.

The Atlanta International AI Film Festival (AIAIFF) is a platform dedicated to empowering filmmakers through education, experimentation, and access to cutting-edge tools. Through panels, workshops, and community activations, AIAIFF champions the creative use of emerging technologies in storytelling while advocating for human-centered, ethical creative practices.

Moderated by AIAIFF founder and UGA alum Natalia Gonzalez, the conversation will highlight real-world examples, evolving workflows, and honest reflections from creators working at the intersection of narrative and innovation. Attendees will walk away with tangible tools, hopeful insight, and inspiration to experiment with technology in their own creative process.

Panelists include:
- Natalia Gonzalez (Moderator) — Filmmaker, producer, and founder of the Atlanta International AI Film Festival. A proud UGA alum, Natalia is dedicated to expanding access to storytelling tools for indie creators through emerging technologies. Through her work at AIAIFF and in the production world, she’s helping bridge the gap between innovation and authentic, impactful narratives.

- Elizabeth P. Kealoha
Elizabeth is Executive Producer at Myelin Pictures, where she champions diverse stories by leveraging emerging technologies—like AI, VR, and XR—to expand creative possibilities while preserving artistic vision.

With over 20 years of experience in broadcast and digital media, she’s held leadership roles at Turner Broadcasting and Katz Broadcasting, and contributed to series including Saints & Sinners, Family Time, and Last Call. Her consulting work spans Meta, Netflix, Twitch, and Hasbro.

A founding board member of the Georgia Creative Collective (GaCC), Elizabeth also leads strategic partnerships for AIAIFF, helping shape the future of tech-enabled storytelling and preparing creatives for the evolving media landscape.

- Laila
Laila Jhané is a new media artist whose work explores themes of transformation through storytelling, AI, and immersive technologies. Her debut solo exhibition, Where the Mind Goes, premiered at Eyedrum in Atlanta, and her Pepper’s Ghost installations use illusion and tech to create layered, otherworldly experiences.

Her work has been featured at AVC Fest, Convergence, and other showcases at the intersection of art and innovation. She’s also led workshops at Spelman’s Innovation Lab and Third World Newsreel, helping creatives explore the narrative potential of emerging media and experiential design.