The Soul of Our Stories – Vol. 2: From Gatekeeping to Groundbreaking

Berlinale Industry Events

Access: Market Badge

Tue Feb 17 12:45 – 13:45 Berlinale Series Market at CinemaxX
VOD available

Global political shifts—from the rise of populism and culture wars to renewed debates around diversity and representation—are profoundly reshaping the film and television industry. At the same time, audiences are increasingly seeking fresh perspectives and authentic voices: stories created by women, queer people, people of color, and older creatives.

Yet this growing demand is often accompanied by uncertainty, structural barriers, and the persistent risk of tokenism. How can the industry move beyond symbolic inclusion toward meaningful, sustainable change?

This panel creates a space for critical analysis, open exchange, and practical solutions. Together, we will explore how the contemporary series landscape can genuinely support diversity while safeguarding creative freedom—and how changing the narrative can go hand in hand with creating series that are both artistically bold and commercially successful.

In Collaboration with: Seriencamp and Women Come Together.

Berlinale Series Market Main Partner

Berlinale Series Market is funded by

Mediapartner

In collaboration with

Speakers

Stefanie Ren (she/her)

Creator, Screenwriter and Showrunner "House of Yang"

Rosina Kaleab (she/her)

Screenwriter and Actress

Julia Penner (she/her)

Screenwriter and Creator

Aylin Kockler (she/her)

Screenwriter

Presenter/Host

Acerina Zambrano (she/her)

Actress and Moderator