Amanda Toney - Main Stage Interview
- Chloe (Coco) Mays
- May 9
- 3 min read
Updated: May 11
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Managing Director, STAGE 32
Based in USA
In this Main Stage Interview, Chloe sits down with Amanda Toney, Managing Director of Stage 32, to explore why they’re coming to Cannes this year, the journey behind their work, and upcoming objectives.
Visual media entertainment is a multi-billion dollar industry, with film and television driving that hefty sum. Amanda wants creatives to understand that geography, resources, and connections shouldn’t be barriers to entry to the industry that many of us interact with and enjoy everyday.
Stage 32 is a digital platform that democratizes access to the film and TV industry through education and career development, boasting over 1 million users worldwide. Toney’s job is to elevate and expand those programs so that talent can meet industry standards where they’re at right now.
In a world where networking has become a sport, with each and every multi-billion dollar tech company capitalizing on our desire for connection, it’s refreshing to see a genuine company with a dedicated team focused on the creative industry emerge onto the scene. An official Marché education partner for over a decade, Stage 32 has been gaining real traction recently, helping people move forward in an historically inaccessible industry. Similar to the way Google awards professional development certificates for the completion of specific skills-based courses, the platform awards certificates in skills related to film and TV production, claiming to be The Future of Film School. Unlike Google, or even the cesspool that is LinkedIn, Stage 32 also serves as a creative marketplace, connecting like-minded professionals from all over the world.
“Personally, I care deeply about raising the standard of education and preparedness across the board,” Toney explains. “My goal is to help build a stronger, more sustainable global production ecosystem […] especially as productions chase tax incentives and need skilled crews everywhere.”
The goal of Stage 32’s Cannes presence this year is to continue to build on what they already know to be true–that focusing on the preparation behind stepping into any industry role or production makes for cohesive working environments and great movies. The industry is intimidating, and many people hesitate to dive in for fear of either friction or a vague belief that they're missing a key piece of the puzzle. But Amanda Toney and the Stage 32 team have the right idea–the key to breaking that down is education. The more we understand, the more prepared we are to tackle challenges.
“It's about amplifying the idea that education and workforce development are critical to the future of production […] So when opportunity comes–whether it’s a production landing in a new region or a filmmaker ready to break out–people are ready to step into those roles with confidence.”
Stage 32 is the product of years of trekking through the slushpile of apps and websites that promise enough development to help you break into the industry, but never deliver. It’s proof that when we place faith in the creatives who are supporting our media, we see real progress in the way we approach the entertainment industry, especially if these emerging voices are women.
“Women are no longer waiting for permission–we’re building infrastructure, creating opportunities, and supporting each other in ways that are actually shifting the industry. When women have the tools and the network, they’re not just participating–they’re leading.”
The cherry on top, unlike other entertainment focused apps and websites with similar offerings, Stage 32 is completely free to join and use, with no subscriptions or tier-based barriers. This platform is truly one of a kind with tangible results–and more platforms should be paying closer attention.
Amanda Toney is Stage 32’s Managing Director and oversees global operations and partnerships with Netflix, Bloomberg and Marché du Film. She’s produced 3,000+ hours of film education, sold shows to Amblin & USA, and worked on films including After All and Alix. A global speaker, she’s shared insights at Cannes, Venice and Harvard.
Stage 32 is the world’s largest online platform connecting and educating the global film and television industry, with over 1.3 million members worldwide. The company is focused on democratizing access to the industry through world-class education, career development, and its rapidly expanding certification programs designed to train and place below-the-line talent to support productions globally.
Amanda Toney will be joining Building Collective Power Panel presented by Yes She Cannes in partnership with E2AC. Thursday, May 14th 2026, 4:00 pm - Palais Main Stage
ABOUT THE INTERVIEWER
Chloe (Coco) Mays is a journalist, writer, and critic based in France. She is the founder of Coco’s Corner, a Substack and podcast focused on film, literature, and media, aiming to spotlight underrepresented voices through interviews and coverage.
(IG: @cocoscorner13)
Post created by Isabella Bonfante. (IG: @isabellabonfante )
Yes She Cannes is a global platform dedicated to elevating women in film through visibility, connection and access - creating meaningful opportunities at Cannes and beyond. Follow along: @yesshecannes