Screen Alliance North has announced that Libby Walker, founder of Nana Peg Productions in South Shields, has been selected as one of seventeen senior scripted leaders to join its new flagship initiative, Into the Lead.
The development programme brings together a select group of leaders from independent production companies across the North of England, equipping them with the tools, insights and future‑focused skills needed to scale their businesses and strengthen the region’s creative economy.
Libby the multi-award-winning producer, actor and coach who studied at The Royal Central School of Speech has built Nana Peg Productions around authentic northern storytelling and character‑driven narratives. She says the opportunity comes at an important moment for both her company and the wider North East screen sector:
“Being chosen for Into the Lead is a huge honour. The North East is full of untapped talent and original voices, and I’m passionate about making sure those stories reach national and international audiences. This programme gives me the support, knowledge and network to develop my company in a way that’s sustainable, innovative and rooted in the community I’m proud to represent.”
Being selected for Into the Lead places Libby among an elite group of emerging industry leaders who will shape the next chapter of the North’s screen landscape. Libby adds:
“What excites me most is the chance to collaborate with other northern creatives who share the same drive to push boundaries. We all want the North to be seen not just as a filming destination, but as a powerhouse for original production and leadership. I’m ready to learn, contribute and take Nana Peg Productions to the next stage.”
Penny Hall, Partnership Lead at Screen Alliance North said;
“Screen Alliance North, with the support of the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding, is helping the screen industry build a stronger, more sustainable future, one that embraces innovation and puts people first. That means learning how to harness new technology and AI responsibly, building resilient and future-ready leaders, and creating inclusive, forward-thinking workplaces where diverse talent can thrive. This programme has been tailored to ensure leaders across our region have the relevant skills and resources to make this happen.”
The course comprises six online modules with a series of expert speakers, exercises, resources, breakout sessions and support. It will run from January to April and is led by delivery partners Under the Moon and Creaticity.
Sara Whybrew, Director of Skills and Workforce Development at BFI said:
“Nurturing positive workplace cultures, being receptive and open to change, and building the confidence to innovate and take measured risk are vital parts of modern leadership – we look forward to seeing the impacts of this programme and working with Screen Alliance North to take learnings from it to inform future leadership training for our sector.”
This project is funded by Screen Alliance North, a BFI Skills Cluster, supported by BFI awarding National Lottery funding.
For more information about the programme see: Into the Lead – Screen Alliance North
For more information about Nana Peg see: Nana Peg Productions | film
