Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1546223
camera, and the vision of filmmakers whose imagined worlds drive our search for the place where each story truly belongs. As stewards of the cinematic treasures within their regions, film commissioners unlock a wealth of possibilities, guiding us to the hidden gems within their borders. They know which road disappears into the horizon, which abandoned factory still stands untouched, which neighborhood can welcome a production, and which historic building has never before appeared on screen. They help us reach those places by drawing on a profound knowledge of their communities. They navigate the intricacies of local government, incentive programs, permitting hurdles and available resources. They remove barriers, open doors, solve problems, and forge the local partnerships that allow productions to succeed. For those on the front lines, AFCI is a vital force ensuring that productions and the communities that welcome them all work together well. To Bega Metzner, Film Commission Director of Moab to Monument Valley, the AFCI is more than just a professional association. "It's a global network of trusted colleagues who understand that filmmaking doesn't stop at borders," she says. "Whether it's sharing knowledge, solving challenges, or helping productions move seamlessly from one destination to another, the AFCI strengthens the relationships that make our industry work." AFCI continues to elevate the profession through education, advocacy, and innovation. AFCI University provides professional training and certification for film commissioners, while mentoring programs help cultivate the next generation of industry leaders. During the pandemic, AFCI's Global Production Alert became an indispensable resource, providing filmmakers with timely information as productions faced unprecedented challenges. Resources such as the Dynamic Incentive Tool, the AFCI Studio Summit, and the Stage 32 Workforce Training Program continue to strengthen the production community. AFCI's long-standing partnership with the LMGI reflects its commitment to filmmakers on a global scale. They have supported the LMGI Awards since its inception in 2013 and together, the two organizations developed Location Managers 101, a course to help film commissioners better understand the needs of location professionals. "AFCI has a long-standing partnership with LMGI that represents decades of cohesion, collaboration and connection," says Brooks. "Receiving the Trailblazer Award from a valued partner is a distinguished honor that we accept with humility and respect. Location managers are a key building block to any production, and our mission is not possible without LMGI's collaboration. Thank you for recognizing our efforts, and for your continued support of our mission." For connecting filmmakers with the people, places, and partnerships that make storytelling possible and for its enduring commitment to expanding the horizons of filmmakers everywhere, the LMGI is proud to present the 2026 Trailblazer Award to the Association of Film Commissioners International. –Danny Finn, President/LMGI WE BUILD WORLDS One Location at a Time "Through its global network of film commissions, the AFCI gives location professionals access to trusted local relationships wherever production takes us. No matter the destination, we know we have experienced partners on the ground who understand their communities, can open the right doors, and help us make production possible."