In 1995, the Houston Rockets won their second consecutive NBA championship, Selena performed to a sellout crowd at the Rodeo and “The 8th Wonder of the World” (The Astrodome) was still a major entertainment venue.

Thanks to the many national advertising agencies calling Houston home, production and post production companies were flourishing.  As were talent agencies and independent filmmakers working steadily on films, broadcast commercials, radio spots and documentaries being shot in H-Town.

1995 was also the year that a dozen or so women got together at The Allen Park Inn (seen in the photo) to form Women in Film & Television/Houston – founded to give voice to women working in television, film and broadcast.  And to learn and benefit from the National Women in Film & Television organization.

This grassroots non-profit organization blossomed over the years, gathering members who would meet monthly to hear guest speakers, share stories, connect and find work.  And perhaps more importantly, become inspired by the successes (and challenges) facing other women working in production and post production.

WIFT/H has faced many obstacles over its storied history (or is that herstory?) Competition from other non-profit organizations, the economy, production jobs leaving town,  film dollars going to other cities, crew folks relocating, advertising agencies folding after 9/11 and of course, Covid, have all had an effect on the organization’s momentum.

Although The Allen Park Inn is no longer standing…WIFT/H STILL IS!  

2025 marks the 30^th anniversary of Women in Film and Television/Houston.  The success and strength of the organization has always been and remains to this day in its membership.  

When the original founders sat around that table ‘lo those many years ago, they envisioned a place where all women (and men, too) in the film, video and broadcast industries could find a home for their aspirations and desire to mentor and learn.  Now, the Houston chapter works closely with its sister chapters in Austin, Dallas and San Antonio.

The world has changed so much since 1995.  But the simple mission of Women in Film & Television/Houston has not.  It’s still an organization that offers its members education, mentoring, connection, support and a voice for their vision.  

It’s still an organization that believes in the magic of women coming together to breathe life into our dreams.