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

Shelley Sykes

Phoenix Award

Cheryl K

Global Entertainment Impact Award

Yvonne Arvizu

Media Influence Honor Award

Suzie Katayama

Excellence in Music & Film Award

“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.