The 15th Annual Global Mixx Music and Film Forum is set to return from November 8 to 10, 2024, at the Chicago Marriott Midway Hotel. Widely recognized as one of the industry’s premier multimedia conferences, the Global Mixx Forum is dedicated to empowering and engaging creative talent in entertainment and media. This year’s theme, Pay It Forward, underscores the mission of providing a valuable platform for the next generation of creators.
Distinguished Keynote Speakers:
- Christine Swanson: An acclaimed film director and producer, Christine Swanson is best known for her compelling storytelling in works such as The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel and For the Love of Ruth. Her latest film, Albany Road, will be featured at the prestigious Black Harvest Film Festival. With her wealth of experience, Swanson will share invaluable insights into navigating the film industry and elevating storytelling through the art of filmmaking.
- Syleena Johnson: A Grammy-nominated R&B singer, songwriter, author, and television host, Syleena Johnson has established herself as a force in music production and as an advocate for creative innovation. Johnson remarked, “The Global Mixx Music and Film Forum is essential for giving aspiring creators the tools and mentorship they need to thrive in a fast-evolving industry. I’m honored to share my journey and insights with this incredible community.”
A Forum Rooted in Legacy:
Since its inception in 2005, the Global Mixx Music and Film Forum has become a collaborative hub, bridging various elements of the entertainment industry. The forum has hosted an impressive roster of industry giants, including director/producer George Tillman, Jr.; Carl Seaton; Grammy-winning artists like Kanye West and Common; influential producers such as No I.D., DJ Terry Hunter, and Steve ‘Silk’ Hurley; casting agent Claire Simmons; Naughty By Nature; Twista; actress Robin Thede; and NAACP Image Award-winning filmmakers Coodie Simmons and Chike.
Reflecting on this year’s event, Christine Swanson shared, “This forum is a vital space for artists to share their stories, collaborate, and inspire the next generation of creators. The connections and conversations here can shape careers and impact our industry in meaningful ways.”
Mary Datcher, the visionary behind Global Mixx, echoed the excitement surrounding this milestone year. “The entertainment industry is going through profound changes,” Datcher noted. “These shifts have led to job losses and new business models in music and film. Hosting this forum is crucial to guiding aspiring creators and veterans, fostering connections, and nurturing professional development. This year, we’ve invited additional high school students from the Chicago area seeking a career in different entertainment fields.”
A Weekend of Immersive Experiences:
Saturday, November 9
Chicago Midway Marriott Hotel
9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Attendees can look forward to an exciting lineup of panels, masterclasses, workshops, and more, including:
- Panel Discussions on Sync Licensing, Film and TV Screenwriting, Podcasting & Streaming, Social Media Influencing, and the Actor’s Spotlight.
- A Masterclass in Music Production led by 9-time Grammy-nominated producer Kosine (Rihanna, Big Sean, Nicki Minaj).
- A Dance Workshop with acclaimed choreographer Tanji Harper.
- An Actors’ Workshop led by Chicago native and seasoned actor Harold Dennis.
- A Speed Mentoring Session featuring 20+ industry professionals for one-on-one advice and insights.
- Fireside Chats with keynote speakers Christine Swanson and Syleena Johnson.
- An On-Site Film Screening premiering six short film documentary finalists.
- An Emerging Artists Showcase featuring independent talent from various genres.
The weekend will culminate in the Game Changers Power Brunch on Sunday, November 10, at Salerno’s Banquets, honoring media, music, film, and community activism trailblazers. This year’s event will also celebrate the 20th anniversary of Chicago’s legendary super producer, Hearon Trackz El, founder of the Beatz Shop, credited with shaping the sounds of Chief Keef, G Herbo, Queen Key, and more.