To commemorate International Women’s Day 2024, we’re putting the spotlight on our incredible Master of Arts Screen: Business (MASB) alumnae, highlighting their achievements, their perspectives on leadership in the screen industry, and the impact of education on their careers as screen business leaders. 

Gia Frino focuses on projects with a social impact, currently working in Factual TV as a producer and dedicating time to Screen Illawarra as Board Member – Treasurer. 

Tell us a little more about your current role or focus area.

I’ve been working in Factual TV as a producer, usually documentary or light entertainment. I enjoy working on projects that have a social impact. I’m also studying a Bachelor of Laws at the moment.  

How do you approach leadership in the screen industry, and what perspectives can you share about fostering inclusivity and gender equality within this sector?

I like to be open and transparent with information. I feel the more open and communicative we are on projects, the more voices and perspectives can he heard. Working in silos is not something that fosters inclusivity and that is something that often happens. I try to lead by example, but I also understand I don’t know what I don’t know, so I try to learn and be curious. I’m not scared to say what I think and challenge authority if needed. It is unfortunate that we have to fight for a place in this industry, but I’m more than happy to fight. I’m used to it. 

In honour of International Women’s Day, could you elaborate on what tools and mindset you draw on to challenge traditional gender norms and advocate for diverse voices and stories in the screen business?

I draw on my lived experience more than I realised I did. I try to approach life through an intersectional lens, and I don’t sit on the fence about issues. I’m not afraid to advocate for myself and others. At the end of the day, no matter how scary it might be at times we have to use our voice and allow space and time for other voices to be heard, especially if they can’t advocate for themselves. 

Is there a female or female-identifying leader in the screen sector whose work you have found particularly inspiring?

Dee Rees, amazing work across film and TV, check out the documentary Eventual Salvation  Ava DuVernay, there is a long list of Ava’s work to choose from but 13th, is a must. I’m still not over Lena Waithe not being nominated for Queen and Slim amazing work Deb Verhoeven research work is amazing and a must read!! 

Reflecting on your journey through the Master of Arts Screen: Business, how do see your leadership and the skills you developed advancing the screen industry?

Strategic and design thinking are skills that the Master of Arts Screen: Business gave me, and I’ve learnt to incorporate those skills – with my lived experience – to use my voice in ways that I didn’t before. I feel I’ll continue to develop those skills, reflect on all the information lecturers gave me over that time and adapt that information in a way that works for me.  

What leadership skills do you see as being essential for the next generation of screen leaders?

Integrity, Passion, Fearlessness, Empathy, an Intersectional mindset to name a few. Be vulnerable and authentic. When you live your truth, success follows. 

What advice would you give someone considering studying the Master of Arts Screen: Business?

My advice would be to go into the course whole heartedly, leave your preconceptions at the door and be open to what the experience and knowledge can give you. Take that knowledge and experience and adapt it, and make it work for you. 

Read more interviews here. 

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