Film Production Students ask questions to a panel of industry experts about getting started in the field and making the right connections to build their careers.
Please visit our Industry Conference page for information about Industry Week panels.
Participants

Blair Young
ACTRA

Betty Tong
Betty Tong brings over two decades of diverse experience in the film industry. She began her career in acting before transitioning into hands-on production roles. She went on to establish herself as a casting director, mainly focusing on background casting on noteworthy projects such as Billy the Kid, Heartland, and Die, My Love. Originating from Calgary, Alberta, she values the power of authentic casting in bringing characters and their world to life. With a Bachelor of Music and Master of Teaching degree, Betty supports emerging talent on both sides of the camera, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the industry. She is dedicated to promoting inclusivity, challenging traditional beauty standards, and ensuring fair representation in casting. Betty serves on the Board of Directors for Creatives Empowered, where she works to expand opportunities for underrepresented artists and professionals in the creative industries. As a producer, she aspires to create cinematic experiences that captivate and leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

Esteban Sanchez
Originally from Mexico, Esteban Sanchez, at just 18 years old, stepped into the world of filmmaking in Baja California. His journey took off when a film coordinator spotted him for a little-known film titled Titanic. Over the years, Esteban has built an impressive international career, gaining invaluable experience in film and television as a Producer, Assistant Director, and Visual Effects Coordinator. Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, Esteban’s diverse portfolio boasts some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, including X-Men: Days of Future Past, James Bond: Tomorrow Never Dies, The Last Of Us, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, Karate Kid, and many more. His work is a testament to his commitment to pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable cinematic experiences. Now based in Montreal, Esteban continues to refine his craft, pouring his energy into every project he takes on. With each new challenge, he remains dedicated to producing top-tier films and bringing innovative visions to life.