Lighting the Path for Inclusive Futures: Lumina VFX Program Launches with Six Emerging Screen Talent – Spectrum Films, in partnership with Bus Stop Films and proudly funded by Netflix, is thrilled to announce the six participants selected for the Lumina VFX Program — an inclusive, industry-first training initiative creating pathways for individuals who identify as having Autism or are Autistic into the post-production sectors.
The 2025 Lumina VFX cohort includes:
– Lauren Kilner (NSW)
– Alexander Kurtz (NSW)
– Bonnie Street (SA)
– Huw Gwynne-Jones (QLD)
– Noah Rucker (NSW)
– Jai Tatham (NSW)
This bespoke training program is designed to equip participants with hands-on fundamental skills in two core areas of VFX, rotoscoping and tracking, whilst providing mentorship from leading industry professionals.
As part of the Program, participants will also take part in an exclusive Netflix-hosted workshop offering a behind the scenes look at post-production on Netflix’s upcoming local series My Brilliant Career. The session will give participants hands-on experience with a real VFX spot, showcasing the craft and collaboration involved in bringing a Netflix story to life.
The Lumina Program provides real-world exposure to professional environments and supports participants to build their confidence, networks, and employability in one of the fastest-growing sectors of the screen industry.
“Our goal with Lumina is to illuminate inclusive pathways into post-production and visual effects,”
– said Dianna La Grassa, COO and Head of Screen at Bus Stop Films.
“Thanks to Netflix’s support, we’re not just training emerging talent — we’re shaping an industry that reflects the diversity of our communities both on and off screen.”
Through the program, participants will collaborate on real projects, gain training experiences, and connect directly with industry mentors. Tangible outcomes include enhanced employability, practical technical skills, wide range of soft skills and a professional portfolio that will help open doors to future screen industry work.
“We are thrilled with our 2025 cohort and can’t wait to support them in mastering new skills. I am looking forward at watching the next generation of talent emerge. It’s such an exciting time for the industry to champion diverse talent through inclusion and to tap into this unrealised potential”
– said Adam Archer, Head of VFX at Spectrum Films.
Debra Richards, Director APAC Studio & Production Affairs at Netflix, said:
“Initiatives like the Lumina VFX Program are such an important way to build real pathways into the industry. It’s inspiring to see the creativity and talent coming through in the 2025 cohort, and we’re glad to play a part in helping these new voices find their place in the screen industry.”
The Lumina VFX Program is a new joint initiative from Bus Stop Films, a pioneering, disability-led not-for-profit creating inclusive filmmaking programs and employment pathways and Spectrum Films, industry renowned post production facility in Australia. With Lumina, Bus Stop Films continues its mission to make the screen industry more accessible — one production at a time.
About Bus Stop Films:
Bus Stop Films is an inclusive, disability-led not-for-profit using filmmaking and the film industry to drive inclusive programs, employment, and advocacy. Through its award-winning Accessible Film Making Program and Bus Stop Employment, BSF empowers people with disability to build, create, advocate and work in screen and media industry.
About Spectrum Films:
Spectrum Films is Australia’s longest-running post-production company, delivering high-end services across film, television, and commercial projects, and championing emerging talent in the post-production space.
About Netflix:
Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services, with over 300 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films, and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching, as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.
Media Release – Netflix
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Lighting the Path for Inclusive Futures: Lumina VFX Program Launches with Six Emerging Screen Talent
