Athena Mandis

Athena is a filmmaker and Senior Lecturer in Film Practice at Queen Mary University of London. She was Acting Festival Director of the 2026 Soho London Independent Film Festival and has developed a series of initiatives to bridge the gap between film education and professional practice. These include Mile End Films, a production unit providing students and graduates with supported professional experience, and an industry-led filmmaking boot camp designed to build practical skills, confidence and access to professional working environments. As an educator and filmmaker Athena is driven by a commitment to broadening access, developing talent and creating pathways into the screen industries.