Martina Russo(II)

Martina is a National Film and Television School alumna, award-winning producer, storyteller and executive, and an MBA candidate specializing in Film Finance with a focus on AI-driven investments. As CEO of UNLEYEK (founded in 2021), she has been celebrated by Variety, Forbes UK, Corriere Della Sera, Dazed, British Cinematographer, and more. Recognised by BAFTA and Academy-qualifying festivals, Martina has produced ten short films (budgets ranging from £10K to £90K) over three years and is now developing multiple features supported by BFI Development Funding. In 2025, she co-launched a female-focused Documentary Fund during the LFF (BFI) 2024, a pioneering initiative supporting women filmmakers in production and post-production. This commitment to advancing female voices in film defines her vision as a producer and positions her as a leader of next-generation storytelling. Trained as a storyteller and development creative at the National Film and Television School, where she won multiple challenges and competitions, Martina's deep understanding of story is what makes her a distinctive and effective producer. In 2024, she joined the Barclays Eagle Labs and UK Government-backed Product Builder Programme, creating a digital tool that enhances financial decision-making in media investments. A dedicated mentor, Martina supports emerging talent via the Creative Mentor Network × Soho House (2023-2024) and WoW Women of the World (2022). She has spoken at Cannes (2022) and won the Discovery Channel UK Best Storyteller award (2021). She was also a finalist for Outstanding Script in 2025. Beyond film, Martina collaborates with business schools, empowering young entrepreneurs and shaping the next generation of creative leaders.