Celebrating Women's History Month at DNEG!

This month, DNEG Animation honoured Women's History Month by hosting an insightful panel at our London studio alongside Animated Women UK!

Kara Oropallo (VP Talent Development, DNEG Animation), Arpita Venugopal (Head of FX, One of Us), Laura Usaite (Managing Director, Vine FX), Amy Adcock (Modeller, DNEG Animation), and Issy Hine (Concept Artist, Women's Concept Art Association) joined moderator Dara McGarry (Outreach Senior Manager, DNEG Animation) for 'From First Steps to Leadership: Women Shaping the Industry', a discussion that explored journeys, lessons and leadership in VFX and animation!

Following the session, attendees gathered for a networking reception!

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Watch the session here:

Hear from some of our speakers below:

Arpita Venugopal (Head of FX, One of Us):

"Conversations like these are so valuable for young and budding artists. The careers of each of the women on the panel have panned out in unique ways, and it is our duty to pass on the knowledge we have gained. Others don't have to repeat the same mistakes we made, and we can further reinforce approaches that have proven successful."

Isobel Hine (Generalist Concept Artist, Founder of Women’s Concept Art Association & Women in Games Ambassador):

"These types of events, held by Animated Women UK / DNEG Animation and similar organisations, act as a North Star for not only students but professionals too. They are a fun and educational way to help guide and reframe your mindset about our industry - so we can approach it with a fresh perspective! Having women's voices highlighted in such a way is incredibly important; it gives us the space to be heard and valued. The impact of that can only be positive, heading towards a more inclusive work environment in the future."

Amy Adock (Character Modeller, DNEG Animation):

"Having panels like this allows the conversation not only to begin but also to continue with everyone in the room. Once people realise they're not alone in the way they feel or think, we can build the confidence to make change together!"

Dara McGarry (Outreach Senior Manager, DNEG Animation):

"Panels like this are important because they create space to hear career advice and real-world insights from women at all stages of their journeys. These perspectives are valuable to everyone, offering guidance, reflection, and practical lessons applicable across roles and industries. At the same time, these panels also play a crucial role in visibility. Seeing women in leadership positions helps challenge assumptions, broaden ambition, and show what's possible - making it easier for others to imagine themselves in those spaces too."

Laura Usaite (Managing Director, Vine FX):

"I really love connecting with women across the industry and hearing their unique journeys. Even in different surroundings, so many of our challenges are shared. Conversations like these help us learn, connect, and support each other. They create a sense of belonging and remind us how valuable it is to share knowledge and lift one another up. Panels like this can spark confidence, encourage new perspectives, and help pave the way for the next generation of women in VFX."

Kara Oropallo (Vice President, Crew Development, DNEG Animation):

"I was so grateful for the opportunity to participate in this WHM session - even as a panellist, I gained knowledge and perspective from my fellow panellists! Events like these are the bedrock of our community for women, non-binary folks, and other minority members of the VFX and animation industry. They give us the opportunity to be vulnerable and share our fears - but also be proud and share our tips for success."

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