Empowering Caribbean Filmmakers: Kerri Birch Speaks at the 12°N, 61°W Grenada Film Festival.

Attracting International Film Projects and Boosting the Caribbean Creative Economy

Grenada is rapidly positioning itself as a sought-after destination for international film and television productions. Kerri Birch, co-owner of 13 Degrees North Productions in Barbados, is at the forefront of this movement. As a featured speaker at the 12°N, 61°W Grenada Film Festival (1261 Film Festival) from October 24th to 27th, Kerri will share her expertise in building bridges between Caribbean creatives and global markets. Her participation in the festival’s second annual Creative Immersive Series, themed The Business of Film, aligns perfectly with her mission to foster co-productions that benefit local talent and the wider economy.

Bridging Caribbean Talent and Global Markets

Kerri will serve as a key panelist in the Creative Immersive Series on October 24th, from 9 AM to 1 PM. Her session, “Exploring Grenada's Appeal for Film Production and the Logistics of Hosting International Productions,” will delve into how Grenada can solidify its place as a premier destination for international film projects. The discussion will focus on how co-productions can elevate the region’s creative talent while attracting international partners who can contribute to Grenada’s economic and cultural development.

Kerri will be joined by Meschida Philip, founder of Mprojekts Creative Group and producer of the 1261 Film Festival. A Grenadian filmmaker, Meschida has played an instrumental role in promoting Grenada as a major player in the Caribbean film industry. Her vision for the festival has helped attract international attention to the region while fostering the growth of local talent and production infrastructure.

Other notable panelists include Petra Roach, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority; Teddy Frederick from the Grenada Film Company; and Andre Hayes of Mindzeye Films. Together, they will explore how Grenada’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and production-friendly conditions make it an ideal choice for filmmakers worldwide, opening significant economic opportunities for the region.

The Business of Film: Economic Impact and Opportunities

A major highlight of the Business of Film segment will be Kerri’s presentation on production budgets and the costs associated with filming in Grenada. She will break down the complexities of production expenses, offering clear insights into the return on investment (ROI) that local businesses and creatives can expect. Her analysis will be crucial for stakeholders looking to integrate into the international film production supply chain, from local service providers to on-the-ground logistics.

By positioning Grenada as an attractive and cost-effective film location, Kerri will demonstrate how international projects can generate local jobs, stimulate businesses, and contribute to the island’s overall economic development.

Creating Inclusive Opportunities for Caribbean Filmmakers

Kerri’s mission extends beyond the economic impact of international productions—she is deeply committed to building an inclusive platform for Caribbean filmmakers. Through 13 Degrees North Productions, she champions co-productions that give local filmmakers, producers, and creatives access to global audiences and resources. Her panel will offer practical advice on how Caribbean creatives can connect with international markets and production teams.

The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A, inviting local filmmakers and businesses to discuss how they can contribute to the expanding global film industry. This will be a valuable opportunity for attendees to ask specific questions and gain actionable insights.

Showcasing Caribbean Talent: Special Screening of Below Deck

As a special feature, the festival will screen an episode from the 2024 season of Below Deck, filmed in Grenada, where Kerri served as the Local Regional Segment Associate Producer. This screening will showcase Grenada's breathtaking landscapes and highlight the region’s capability to produce globally recognized, high-quality content.

Kerri’s involvement in Below Deck is a shining example of how international co-productions can bring Caribbean talent to the forefront, further cementing Grenada’s place on the global film production map.

A Vision for a Thriving Caribbean Film Industry

With the festival’s emphasis on The Business of Film, Kerri, and Meschida Philip showcase how the creative economy can drive regional cultural and economic growth. Their shared vision is clear: through co-productions and international partnerships, Grenada and the wider Caribbean have the potential to unlock unprecedented opportunities for local talent.

Join Kerri, Meschida, and other industry leaders at the 1261 Grenada Film Festival from October 24th to 27th to be part of the movement shaping the future of Caribbean cinema. Together, we can build a thriving creative economy that elevates Caribbean stories and talent, ensuring they resonate with local and international audiences.

Register for the Creative Immersive Series here.