Ashley Maria and Lea-Ann W. Berst

Invite the filmmakers of Pioneers in Skirts to your event

Planning an event? After years of research and traveling the country making Pioneers in Skirts, Director Ashley Maria and Producer Lea-Ann W. Berst have been on a mission to help others understand what it takes to achieve a truly inclusive world where women and girls can achieve their dreams.

TOPICS:
- overcoming unfair career obstacles
- learning to be better allies
- empowering the next generation
- how to make people feel included in the culture we live, work, and learn in.

LEARN MORE & BOOK THEM TO SPEAK: https://www.pioneersinskirts.com/speakers/

THE FILM IS A CATALYST FOR MEANINGFUL CONVERSATION
Pioneers in Skirts is an inspiring documentary addressing the obstacles that can limit a woman or girl’s pioneering ambition. When they watch the film audiences --
- become more aware of cultural prejudices that can affect pioneering ambition
- are encouraged to have productive and meaningful discussions about it
- are ready to take positive action towards change.

WATCH THE FILM: https://www.pioneersinskirts.com/watch/

THE FILMMAKERS
Pioneers in Skirts director – Ashley Maria, is an Emmy-nominated and DGA award-winning director, writer, and producer. She’s known for creating both comedy and horror films as well as content that addresses pressing social issues, especially gender equality. Ashley’s portfolio includes a range of funny (and fun), scary, musical, and impactful films with superheroes, singing neighbors, and screaming television characters — to highlight a few! Based in Los Angeles, CA., Ashley hails from the Tar Heel state of North Carolina. She received her undergrad degree from UNC-Chapel Hill and her Master’s in Fine Arts (MFA) from the USC School of Cinematic Arts – in California.

Pioneers in Skirts producer – Lea-Ann W. Berst, is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker and global activation professional who specializes in maximizing a film’s reach and helping organizations use the power of film to enhance their culture and meet their mission. Based in Myrtle Beach, SC., she is known in the past for her “first-to-market” product marketing launches in the tech industry, and today Lea-Ann as a writer, producer, and activation marketer having had received several festival awards, including Best Documentary, Spirit of Activism Award, and Best Feature Film -- to name a few. She received her undergrad degree from SUNY Oswego in New York.

Fun fact, Ashley and Lea-Ann are daughter and mother!

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