Redefining Girlhood: How PGA Member Jennifer Bertling Empowers Young Audiences with Inclusive Kids’ Media
Jennifer Bertling, a member of the Producers Guild of America, made her way from the backstage of Canadian theatre to the heart of Hollywood, where she produces children’s media with a focus on inclusivity, creativity, and empowerment. From her beginnings in Canadian community theatre to her current work in Los Angeles, exemplifies her commitment to inclusive and imaginative storytelling that resonates with young girls and uplifts underrepresented voices.
Growing up backstage of community theatre while her mother performed, Bertling developed a fascination with the unseen work that fuels great performances. Her hands-on experience in production roles revealed to her how deeply collaborative storytelling can be, a perspective she carried into her producing career.
Without formal film school training or the benefit of industry relations, Bertling began her professional journey working at respected Canadian institutions like eOne and the National Film Board of Canada, where she learned the intricacies of production logistics and developed a deep understanding of what makes a story resonate with audiences. Her curiosity and determination set her apart as a creative problem-solver.
Breaking boundaries sparks
Bertling moved to Los Angeles to seek greater opportunities. This decision was a turning point in her career that reflects her readiness to take on the challenges of a highly competitive and often male-dominated industry. She carved out a space for herself as a producer known for her visionary approach and inclusive content.
One of Bertling’s achievements is her work on the 2022 Netflix feature-length film “LOL Surprise! Winter Fashion Show.” She brings to life a story that celebrates girlhood in all its unapologetic forms as a producer on the project. The film was entertainment and a statement about the importance of representation and creativity in children’s media. Bertling ensured that the film’s young audience saw themselves reflected on screen, a move that challenged outdated assumptions and set a new standard for inclusive storytelling.
Reflecting on the project, Bertling said, “Kids deserve stories that show them what’s possible. That starts with who’s telling them.” This belief guided every decision she made on the film, from story development to production design, which ensured that the final product was engaging and empowering.
Unveiling creative horizons
In addition to producing LOL Surprise! Winter Fashion Show, Bertling took on the role of production manager for Draw Me Close, a pioneering live theatre and VR hybrid that earned a coveted spot in the 2017 Venice International Film Festival’s VeniceVR section. Only 22 submissions were chosen from over 100 worldwide, which places Bertling at the center of a project recognized among the best in the emerging medium.
Bertling also played a role in the production of the 2024 Oscar-nominated documentary “To Kill A Tiger,” which earned a nomination for Best Feature Documentary. This project was initiated under the direction of women who explored storytelling as a tool for social justice. It was a theme that aligns with Bertling’s own values and mission.
Her expertise in storytelling was further recognized when she was invited to serve as a jury member at the Oscar-qualifying HollyShorts Film Festival in 2023 and 2024. Sitting alongside leading industry figures, like Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sam Worthington, Zoey Deutch, Rachel Brosnahan, and Rosario Dawson, Bertling brought her unique perspective to the festival, which helped to highlight and celebrate new voices in film.
Rise defy conquer
Throughout her career, Bertling has overcome the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry. She often had to work twice as hard to be taken seriously and turned these challenges into opportunities to showcase her exceptional ability. She built her career from scratch by relying on her passion, creativity, and resilience to break through barriers.
Bertling’s leadership style is defined by her commitment to lifting others up. She believes that every voice deserves to be heard and that diversity enriches the storytelling process. Her focus on collaboration, respect, and authenticity has earned her a reputation as a creative leader.
Bertling wants to launch her own production company dedicated to centering women and underrepresented voices. She aims to create a space where creativity and values coexist, which offers a platform for emerging storytellers to share their perspectives and reshape the industry.
Discover visions untold
Jennifer Bertling’s journey is a testament to authentic, inclusive storytelling. Her work on “LOL Surprise! Winter Fashion Show” and other projects proves that when young audiences see themselves as heroes in the stories they watch, it can change the way they see the world and their place in it. From community theatre to the Oscars, Bertling’s career shows that extraordinary talent and vision can come from places that inspire the next generation to dream big.
