Jill Gilbert (BRIC Foundation): 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Jill Gilbert is a prominent figure within the BRIC Foundation, a non-profit organization co-founded in 2018, dedicated to increasing representation of underrepresented groups in entertainment, gaming, media, and technology. Her work at the foundation focuses on creating pathways and opportunities for these groups to thrive in leadership roles within these industries. Engaging with her multifaceted career in creative industries, Jill's efforts through the BRIC Foundation have made significant impacts on diversity and inclusion. In this article, we'll explore ten noteworthy aspects of Jill Gilbert and her contributions, showcasing why she is a pivotal force in pushing for systemic change in creative sectors.

1. Co-Founder of BRIC Foundation

Jill Gilbert co-founded the BRIC Foundation alongside Alison Mann and Nicole Hendrix with the mission of "Break, Reinvent, Impact, and Change" the foundation of industries such as entertainment and technology. Established in July 2018, the foundation seeks to dismantle the systemic barriers that limit access and advancement for women and underrepresented groups. By connecting industry leaders, educational institutions, and governmental bodies, BRIC works to ensure equitable opportunities for creative leadership.

2. Strategic Innovator

As a seasoned strategist, Jill Gilbert specializes in developing and branding new business divisions, particularly in creative fields. Her company, JFG Consulting LLC, has assisted major clients like Epic Games and Supercell in establishing development infrastructures and crafting go-to-market strategies. Her ability to innovate within evolving business models highlights her expertise in fostering creative growth and industry transformation.

3. Animation Industry Pioneer

With over two decades of experience in the animation industry, Jill Gilbert has significantly contributed to the sector by building new IP divisions from scratch. Her executive roles at Walt Disney Company, Paramount Animation, and Technicolor have fortified her reputation as a builder of original creative content. Gilbert's work has seen her develop over 50 projects, transitioning studios from animation partners to content creators.

4. Focus on Diversity and Inclusion

Jill Gilbert’s work with the BRIC Foundation emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) within the creative industries. By facilitating programs like the Animation, VFX, and Gaming Apprenticeship, the foundation actively creates alternative career pathways that lower the barrier to entry for underrepresented groups. This initiative not only fills the industry talent pipeline but also supports the development of a diverse workforce ready for high-tech, high-paying roles.

5. Educational Advocate

Believing in the power of education to enact long-term change, Jill Gilbert is deeply involved in educational initiatives. Through BRIC, she has facilitated collaborations with educational partners to redefine curriculum standards and create resources that are inclusive and industry-relevant. Such efforts emphasize her commitment to nurturing talent from an early age, ensuring that diversity is fostered at every educational level.

6. Mentor and Educator

Gilbert is also recognized for her contributions as a mentor and educator. Her guest lectures at institutions like UCLA Extension and the Producers Guild of America illustrate her dedication to sharing her knowledge and experience. As a mentor, she plays a crucial role in guiding the next generation of Hollywood creative talent, providing insight into industry workings and career development.

7. Building Industry Bridges

Under her leadership, the BRIC Foundation acts as a bridge connecting governmental, educational, and industry entities. This connectivity enables the organization to drive change through collaborative efforts, focusing on high impact solutions to industry diversity challenges. By aligning these different sectors, Jill Gilbert ensures comprehensive approaches to systemic change.

8. Recognition and Influence

Jill Gilbert is widely recognized for her influence on modernizing diversity practices across the creative industry landscape. Her thought leadership and active involvement in industry summits, such as the BRIC Summit, reinforce her role as an advocate for inclusive change. The annual summit gathers diverse thought leaders to develop actionable strategies for enhancing DEIA, highlighting her efficacy in impact-driven leadership.

9. Expansion of Career Pathways

Through her initiatives at BRIC, Jill Gilbert has expanded career pathways within the creative industries for underrepresented groups. The creation of the Animation, VFX, and Gaming Apprenticeship Program exemplifies her innovative approach to bridging the gap between education and direct employment opportunities. This program serves as a cost-effective alternative to traditional educational pathways, making career entry more accessible.

10. Future Prospects and Vision

Looking into the future, Jill Gilbert's vision continues to focus on systemic transformation and inclusivity within creative industries. Her strategic foresight includes exploring new methodologies in education and workforce development to further bolster diversity across all professional levels. As BRIC grows, so too does its potential to influence and redefine industry standards globally, ensuring that the push for equitable opportunities persists into the next decade and beyond.

Conclusion

Jill Gilbert's contributions through the BRIC Foundation are reshaping perceptions and practices in the creative industries. Her leadership and strategic initiatives highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion, illustrating that systemic change is both necessary and achievable. As BRIC continues its work, inspired by Gilbert's vision, it beckons a future where all people, regardless of background, can access transformative opportunities in creative leadership. This ongoing journey begs the question: What more can be done to sustain and amplify these efforts into a broader spectrum of industries?