Animation is a powerful storytelling medium, and behind some of the most compelling visuals and heartwarming narratives in recent years are women who are boldly redefining the creative space. At The Animation School (TAS), we proudly celebrate the women who are shaping the industry, inspiring the next generation, and leading from the front—whether in the classroom, the studio, or on international screens.

Women Leading the Industry

Across the global animation landscape, women are stepping into key creative roles—directing award-winning films, designing unforgettable characters, and giving life to worlds we’ve come to love. The rise of female voices in animation is not only essential for diversity and representation—it enriches the stories we tell and how we tell them. TAS is proud to count several incredible alumni among these rising stars. These women are not only proving that they belong at the top—they’re winning the accolades to show for it:

Sarah Scrimgeour, Emmy Award-winning Art & Series Director, has worked on beautiful productions like Tabby McTat and Superworm—bringing warmth, heart, and striking visuals to audiences of all ages.

Nadia Darries, Annie Award-winning Director and Animator, co-directed Star Wars: Visions – Aau’s Song and is the creator of Crocodile Dance. Her bold and emotional storytelling is reshaping what’s possible in animated narratives.

Celeste Jamneck, Annie Award-winning Character Designer and Storyboard Artist, contributed her artistic vision to Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire and Star Wars: Visions, projects that highlight futuristic African storytelling and global collaboration.

Tamara Polonyfi, an International Emmy Award winner, has brought life and texture to animated hits like The Smeds and the Smoos and Seal Team through her work in Look Development—turning imagination into immersive visual experiences.

These alumni exemplify the world-class talent nurtured at TAS, and their success demonstrates the power of combining skill with story-driven passion.

The Women of TAS: Educating, Mentoring, Inspiring

The strength of our female alumni is matched by the extraordinary women who educate and lead at The Animation School. Our academic sta􀒩f and lecturers are more than teachers—they’re mentors, role models, and creators in their own right.

• Shani Campbell, Tanya Blaeser, and Mikylah Spangenberg guide our 2nd and 3rd year students through rigorous production pipelines and creative development.
• Kay Carmichael teaches the art of story—a vital foundation in every successful animation.
• Assistant Lecturers Anel Truter and Sarah Swanepoel support student journeys from fundamentals to final frames.
• Our leadership team—Kelly Walker, Bronwyn Horne and Rhiannon Reid—ensures TAS continues to thrive as a hub of innovation and inclusion.

Shaping the Future: Current Students Making Moves

Every year, more and more young women enrol at TAS, bringing fresh perspectives and creative energy to the world of animation. Whether directing third-year short films, exploring concept art, or excelling in 3D, our current female students are proving that the future of animation is female-led, collaborative, and boundary-pushing.

From internationally awarded alumni to the educators guiding tomorrow’s stars, the women of The Animation School are a vital part of a global movement.

We’re proud to stand alongside these incredible women as they continue to lead, inspire, and animate the world—one story at a time.