Pasifika Women Shine in Screen storytelling at the WIFT Awards
Queen of the screens big and small Anapela Polata’ivao is a finalist in two categories at the Women in FIlm and TV awards, alongside Coconet founder Lisa Taouma who is also a finalist in two different categories.
The annual awards celebrate the achievements of women working across film, television and digital media, from storytelling and directing to journalism and entrepreneurship - areas where four Pasifika women have been put forward to celebrate across the sector.
This year’s winners will be announced at the awards night this Thurs 12th March.
Anapela Polata’ivao ONZM (Sāmoa)
Acclaimed actor, director and theatre maker Anapela Polata’ivao has been nominated in two categories this year. She is a finalist for the 'South Pacific Pictures Award for Outstanding Achievement in Film' for her powerful performance in Tinā, and is also recognised in the SKY Award for Moana Excellence in the Screen Industry.
Polata’ivao is widely regarded as one of Aotearoa’s most influential Pacific creatives, known for her work across theatre, film and television, as well as her leadership within Pacific arts communities.
Papali’i Lisa Taouma (Sāmoa)
Producer, director and media entrepreneur Papali’i Lisa Taouma has been named a finalist for the 'Perpetual Entertainment Entrepreneurship Award' for her work with Tikilounge Productions and The Coconet TV.
A long-time champion of Pacific storytelling, Taouma has helped create platforms and opportunities for Pasifika creatives across television and digital media, connecting audiences with stories from across the Moana.
She is also nominated for the 'SKY Award for Moana Excellence in the Screen Industry', recognising her wider contribution to Pacific representation and leadership in the sector.
Sharlene George (Cook Islands)
Pasifika leader Sharlene George has been recognised with a nomination for the 'Perpetual Entertainment Entrepreneurship Award' for her work with global production company Sweetshop.
George doesn’t just champion women in the industry, she actively creates opportunities, pathways and resources to see them succeed. As Global CEO and founding partner of Sweetshop Films, which now spans six international offices, her impact on the screen sector has been significant.
Through her leadership, George has helped shape not only the stories brought to the screen, but also the pipeline of careers being nurtured behind the scenes, helping open doors for the next generation of creatives across Aotearoa and beyond.
Sandra Kailahi (Tonga)
Veteran journalist and television presenter, now Producer Sandra Kailahi is another finalist for the 'SKY Award for Moana Excellence in the Screen Industry'
With a career spanning decades in broadcasting, film & television Kailahi has played a key role in bringing Pacific stories and perspectives to mainstream media in Aotearoa. The success of films like Uproar and For My Father’s Kingdom are a clear testament to her passion and drive.
Vea Mafile’o (Tonga)
Filmmaker and director Vea Mafile’o has been shortlisted for the 'Hinterland Woman to Watch Award', recognising emerging voices making a significant mark in the industry.
Mafile’o is known for her work across documentary and storytelling projects that centre Pacific communities and lived experiences.
The recognition of these Pasifika finalists highlights the growing influence of Pacific women across Aotearoa’s screen industry, celebrating storytellers and leaders whose work continues to expand representation and inspire the next generation of creatives.