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Supply Chains

For professionals navigating the complexities of the Media & Entertainment (M&E) supply chain, staying ahead requires a keen understanding of market trends and a pulse on emerging talent. Recent events at the Laugh Factory offer valuable insights into both, particularly regarding the growing emphasis on inclusivity and neurodiversity within the industry.

Animator Dani Bowman, known for her work and presence on Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum, recently performed at the Laugh Factory. This highlights the increasing visibility and acceptance of neurodivergent talent in mainstream entertainment. The Autism In Entertainment (AIE) Workgroup presented a fundraiser showcasing stand-up comedians Willie Hunter, Josh Meyrowitz, Nic Novicki, Alice Payne, and Jeremiah Watkins. Bowman reprised her Laugh Factory ‘90s animation trivia show. AIE Educational Partners such as Jazz Hands for Autism, The Miracle Project, Performing Arts Studio West, Spectrum Laboratory, and Yes I Can Unity Through Music & Education also delivered stage acts. The event also featured the premiere of Extraordinary Character, a mini-documentary by Alex Astrella.

This event underscores a broader industry trend: the active inclusion of individuals with autism in various aspects of production. AIE, as an employment initiative of The Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG), aims to expand employment and inclusion within the entertainment sector for autistic individuals trained in entertainment-related fields. The organization hosted the inaugural Autism In Entertainment Conference in April 2024, connecting work-ready autistic talent with employers and educators. In partnership with job development partner, Zavikon, AIE has already facilitated internships and employment opportunities at major studios like Disney, NBC Universal, and DreamWorks.

For M&E supply chain professionals, this translates to several key takeaways. First, actively seeking out and integrating neurodivergent talent can provide a competitive edge, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to content creation. Second, understanding the support systems and organizations like AIE is crucial for fostering a truly inclusive and successful working environment. Finally, recognizing and celebrating neurodiversity can resonate with audiences and enhance brand reputation.

The integration of neurodivergent individuals within the M&E supply chain is not just a matter of social responsibility but a strategic imperative for sustained growth and innovation. By embracing inclusivity, entertainment professionals can unlock new creative avenues and connect with a wider audience.

Persons: Dani Bowman, Willie Hunter, Josh Meyrowitz, Nic Novicki, Alice Payne, Jeremiah Watkins, Alex Astrella, Judi Uttal, David Fuhrer, Jerry Beck, Tom Bancroft, Jackson Murphy, Haylie Baker, Marmoru Oshii, Mamoru Hosoda

Company Names: Netflix, Laugh Factory, Danimation, Spectrum Laboratory, Jazz Hands for Autism, The Miracle Project, Performing Arts Studio West, Yes I Can Unity Through Music & Education, Autism In Entertainment, Orange County Asperger’s Support Group, Disney, NBC Universal, DreamWorks, Zavikon, Sandstone Artists, GKids, Studio Ghibli, Sony Animation, Universal Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Warner Bros, Warner Bros Animation, AnimEgo, MediaOCD, Skyset Entertainment, Neon, AppleTV, Sony Pictures Classics

Titles: Love on the Spectrum, Extraordinary Character, Grave Of The Fireflies, KPOP Demon Hunters, The Bad Guys 2, Zootopia, Krypto Saves the Day!, Time Slip of 10,000 Years: Prime Rose, Angel Egg, Scarlet, Light Of The World, Shape Island, Metal Skin Panic Madox-01, Arco

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