CIF International Entertainment Award

Los Angeles, March 15, 2026 — Hosted by the California Investment Forum (CIF), the CIF International Entertainment Executive Reception was successfully held in Los Angeles, bringing together leading professionals from film, television, music, media, and the global entertainment industry.

The event served as a high-level platform for dialogue and collaboration, featuring distinguished guests from government and industry, including Leah Medrano, Deputy Director of the California Film Commission, California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, and CIF Co-Chairs Daniel Sieu and Jason Gahari.

During the reception, Leah Medrano highlighted California’s film and television tax incentive programs and their critical role in attracting global productions, reinforcing the state’s position as a global hub for entertainment. Attendees engaged in discussions on industry trends, policy support, and international collaboration opportunities.

Notably, Fiona Ma is also a member of SAG-AFTRA, reflecting her long-standing support for the entertainment industry.

“California continues to be a global leader in entertainment, and initiatives like this help strengthen international collaboration and bring new opportunities to our creative economy,” said State Treasurer Fiona Ma.

As a key highlight of the Executive Reception, the CIF International Entertainment Awards were presented to honor outstanding individuals for their contributions to global entertainment and cultural exchange.

Award Honorees

Rebecca Holden

Distinguished Achievement in Film, Television & Music Award

In recognition of her outstanding achievements and lasting contributions to the entertainment industry, inspiring audiences through excellence in film, television, and music.

Shelley Sykes

Phoenix Award( Motivational Speaker)

In recognition of her inspiring leadership and creative contributions as a motivational speaker, producer, director, writer, and musician, uplifting others through her powerful voice and vision.

Cheryl K

Global Entertainment Impact Award

In recognition of her remarkable contributions to the global entertainment industry as a singer-songwriter, actor, and executive producer, and for promoting cultural influence through film and music.

Yvonne Arvizu

Media Influence Honor Award

In recognition of her outstanding contribution to financial education and credit awareness through radio, television, and Spanish-language media platforms, empowering the Latino community with knowledge and tools to improve their financial stability.

Suzie Katayama

Excellence in Music & Film Award

In recognition of her exceptional contributions to the music and film industries, and for inspiring audiences through artistic excellence and musical innovation.

“CIF is committed to building bridges between global entertainment, investment, and innovation. Through platforms like this, we aim to connect talent, capital, and opportunity on an international scale,” said Daniel Sieu and Jason Gahari, Co-Chairs of California Investment Forum.

The CIF International Entertainment Executive Reception & Awards further demonstrated CIF’s leadership in fostering international collaboration across entertainment, culture, and investment sectors.