On her role and motivation

You’ve been working as Head of Industry at Go Short since October. How would you describe the role? 

"As the Head of Industry, I develop and deliver the festival program for both established and aspiring film professionals. The industry team is also responsible for the festival strategy in the field of talent development, partnerships with other industry players, and the outreach of our professional activities. I lead the fantastic industry team of six and ensure smooth communication with other festival departments." 

"Every year we welcome more than 500 film professionals to Nijmegen, including over 100 international guests. The role of our team is not only to create a compelling program offer, but also to make sure that everyone enjoys their overall festival experience." 

What initially drew you to working in the short film sector, and what still motivates you today? 

"I have always been interested in experimentation and innovation in film and visual arts, so short film really is a perfect medium for me. I also truly appreciate the community of short film makers and the international festival landscape, which is very open and welcoming. Moreover, the great majority of the short film makers are at the beginning of their career, so by following their work closely you can stay ahead of trends and see the filmmaking of the future."

"What motivates me the most is the long-lasting impact of our activities: seeing new talent flourish, matching the right projects with the right decision makers or feeling that we can contribute to the international success of a Dutch production. Being able to bring the industry together really gives you a kick."

Go Short and its role in talent support

You highlighted that Go Short brings many film professionals together and offers them a platform. How do you see the role of Go Short within the wider short film ecosystem?

"Go Short is where talent, innovation and stories come together. Our role is to build bridges between the audiences and makers, between the regional and the national film industries, and between filmmakers and international producers, programmers and distributors."  

"The mission behind our work is to professionalize the sector: support the talent, spotlight and learn from the success stories and make sure that the whole sector is heading toward a more diverse, healthy and sustainable work environment."  

Talent support is an important part of the festival. How does this translate into the Industry program in practice? 

"From 2026 onwards, to help navigate over 40 events, our program will be divided into four main sections: inspiration, training, market and network. Across these sections, we offer a dedicated talent trajectory tailored specifically to the needs of film students and industry beginners. That includes informative sessions such as introduction to short film distribution, laid-back networking moments with both experts and peers, or talks on themes such as how to deal with pressure and take care of your mental health as a creator. We plan on organizing over 200 matchmaking sessions, to bridge the gap between industry professionals and new talent."  

Join Go Short Industry 2026 

Go Short Industry takes place from Thursday 9 to Saturday 11 April 2026 in Nijmegen. The Industry Accreditation gives access to the full Industry program, networking events, film screenings and professional resources. 

👉 Accreditations are now on sale. 
Discover all details and apply via this link 

Sneak peek: Go Short Industry 2026 

Looking ahead to the upcoming edition, what themes or topics do you want to bring into the conversation? 

"We will discuss themes such as production opportunities across the regions of the Netherlands, the role of genre filmmaking in the context of short film nowadays, what constitutes a short film canon and how can we, as the industry, challenge it, and much more! What I find particularly important is to always include multiple perspectives on a subject: just like how differing short films are being put together in one film program."  

Are there any new elements or formats in the Industry program that you are particularly excited about? 

"Absolutely! There are two new program elements that I’m particularly looking forward to: the first one is a short film sector meeting, conducted in Dutch, during which invited policymakers and key industry players will discuss a national strategy for a future-proof short film industry. The second element is Programming Dimensions, a mini-conference aimed at short film curators that explores both theoretical and practical aspects of their profession in the form of a keynote, case studies and roundtable conversations." 

Without giving too much away: are there already some confirmed guests, partners or program highlights you would like to share?

"Yes. I’m particularly looking forward to the masterclass of Sven Bresser, who is going to share with the audience his creative path from short film to his recent, critically acclaimed feature film Rietland, which premiered in Cannes last year. Further, Swiss scholar and curator Laura Walde will give a talk on film programming, and the award-winning director and writer Robert-Jonathan Koeyers will share some career tips for the next generation of filmmakers. For the third year in a row, we are teaming up with Screen Talent NL to organize the Dutch Short Film Pitch." 

If you could give one reason to attend Go Short Industry 2026. what would it be?

"Let us surprise you! The short film industry might be an underdog, but it really has much to offer. The filmmakers are more likely to take risks, explore new aesthetics and challenge the viewer. There is a lot to learn from short film; no matter where you are in your filmmaking career."