By Crystal Harrell
Palm Springs Women in Film and Television (PSWIFT) is set to host its highly anticipated Annual Scholarship Recipient Mixer on June 10, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Classic Club in Palm Desert. This signature event honors the next generation of filmmakers and digital artists with scholarships that support their academic and creative pursuits.
The evening will be emceed by News Channel 3 reporter and multimedia journalist Allie Anthony, who will share her personal journey into the world of television news—from the early challenges to the career-defining breakthroughs.
“I understand how it feels to chase a dream that sometimes seems far away,” said Anthony. “This scholarship ceremony is more than just financial support—it’s a foundation for these four talented women as they begin their journeys.”
The 2025 scholarship cycle celebrates four exceptional local young women pursuing careers in film, television, and digital arts, including Angela Hernandez, Marisol Hernandez, Gissel Sanchez, and Claudia Martinez.
“Receiving this award was not just a financial relief—it was a moment of encouragement that reminded me that my voice and my story matter,” said Gissel Sanchez, the inaugural recipient of the PSWIFT News Channel 3 Scholarship.
Sanchez, who will be studying Film, Sociology, and Anthropology at the University of Redlands, is a first-generation student and passionate storyteller. She credits her KESQ News Channel 3 internship and early collaborations with PSWIFT for shaping her creative path.
Other scholarships awarded include The Patti Gribow Student Scholarship for high school seniors in the Coachella Valley pursuing film or related fields like theater, writing, or drama—and The Post-Secondary Filmmakers Scholarship—supporting Coachella Valley students enrolled in post-secondary programs focused on filmmaking and media arts.
PSWIFT’s commitment to empowering emerging voices is at the heart of its mission.
“My mission is to raise vital funds to support aspiring film and television students, so they have the freedom and resources to fully express their creativity while pursuing their educational goals. When I was a film student many years ago, financial barriers often stood in the way of realizing our visions…
“Sadly, that challenge still exists today. Producing films isn’t cheap, and for students here in the Coachella Valley—many of whom dream of becoming producers, directors, or cinematographers—access to funding can mean the difference between giving up or breaking through. These students have the talent, drive, and passion. They deserve the opportunity to bring their stories to life and shape the future of media,” said Kent Kay, PSWIFT Scholarship Chair.
Founded in 2001, PSWIFT is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting professionals in the entertainment, new media, and creative arts community. As the 38th chapter of Women in Film & Television International, PSWIFT is part of a global network with more than 43 chapters and over 10,000 members worldwide.
Tickets for the mixer are $40 for members and $45 for non-members, and include appetizers and access to a no-host bar. All proceeds support PSWIFT’s scholarship and mentorship initiatives.
To register or learn more about PSWIFT’s programs, visit www.pswift.org.
