Celebrating a Year of Growth, Creativity, & Community: Asians in Animations 2024 Year-End Round-Up

As we close out another remarkable year at Asians in Animation (AIA), we extend our deepest gratitude to every member, volunteer, partner, and mentor who helped us continue our mission of amplifying Asian voices in the global animation industry. In 2024, our fourth year as an organization, our non-profit is proud to solidify ourselves as a high-impact platform that provides unparalleled professional development and production experience for next-generation Asian animation talent.

Nurturing New Voices Through Production Programs

​Our most ambitious milestone this year was the launch of the Asians in Animation Immersive Lab, a flagship talent incubator and accelerator aimed at bridging the gap between emerging animation artists and industry standards.

Under the guidance of emerging animation leaders and 14 seasoned industry mentors from leading studios, including Pixar, Skydance Animation, and Lucasfilm Animation, participants worked collaboratively to create our first professional-level short film, bé hồng (Little Persimmon). Developed over a month and produced in a whirlwind nine days, this heartfelt, hand-drawn film is already making waves at international festivals and is set for public release in 2025.

Building on this success, we introduced the Asians in Animation Pilot Pre-Production Program (4P) in September 2024. From October 2024 to May 2025, a growing crew of 36 creatives will take an original AIA-produced series concept through the entire pre-production pipeline. Writing, visual development, and casting will be completed by January, with storyboarding following in the spring. The 4P is on track to deliver a production-ready animatic that will exemplify the innovation and cultural richness at the core of AIA’s values.
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Expanding Opportunities ​for Professional Growth

In addition to our production programs, we hosted over 100 events worldwide—masterclasses, workshops, studio visits, screenings, in-person meet-ups, and community co-working sessions—across three continents.

Each experience was designed to address the unique challenges faced by Asian professionals in the animation industry, offering practical training and mentorship.

Our second annual Career Summit, spanning multiple time zones, featured panels, demos, portfolio reviews, and networking sessions, ensured members received insights rarely found in traditional animation schools.

​A Thriving Global Community

AIA continued to grow at an astonishing pace in 2024. Today, we proudly count 5,250+ members across 81 countries, supported by 125+ dedicated volunteers. Our members regularly celebrate their personal and professional triumphs on our platforms, uplifting each other and expanding the reach of Asian talent. Together, we are forging a future in which Asian creators will drive the animation industry’s storytelling and innovation for decades to come.

Looking Ahead to 2025 & Beyond

As we enter the new year, we remain committed to our mission: achieving long-term, on-screen representation by empowering the next generation of Asian animation creators. In 2025, we will broaden our training programs, delve deeper into CG feature animation opportunities, and continue championing cultural authenticity and diversity in all forms of animated storytelling.

Warm Holiday Wishes & Gratitude

From the Immersive Lab to the 4P and beyond, the year's accomplishments would not have been possible without your support. Thank you for believing in our vision, investing your time and talents, and sharing in the joy of creative collaboration.

​As we gather with loved ones and celebrate the holidays, let’s also celebrate the creative spark that brings us together. We are energizing the industry with our collective spirit, cultural vibrancy, and unwavering dedication to shaping a more inclusive future in animation. Happy Holidays, everyone!

With warm regards,
The Asians in Animation Team

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