Film Commissioner at the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission (BVITBFC), Ms Natalie O. Hodge, has admitted that additional staff is needed at the Film Commission. Photo: Internet Source

The Film Commission is staffed by Film Commissioner Ms Natalie O. Hodge (pictured) and a Film Commission Officer. Photo: Facebook

The inaugural International Film Festival is being held in the Virgin Islands from October 30 to November 2, 2025. Photo: BVITBFC

Ms Hodge was appointed Film Commissioner on May 17, 2021, becoming the Film Commission's first female Commissioner.

While speaking on JTV Channel 55’s The Big Story with Cathy O. Richards on August 20, 2025, the staffing issue was lightly brought up. 

“I know in the past things have been going well, but since you took that seat, you came with a new vision, revised energy to what was there and then building on it and more, and it’s just two of you,” Richards told her. 

Miss Hodge replied that she thinks this is the goal of everybody. 

“Come in, build something and leave it for the next person to take it over. So that’s my goal as well: build what I can, set the foundation so that the next person who takes over has that stepping stone so that they can take it much further than I have.”

Staff is needed

However, she added, “Absolutely, staff is needed.”

She highlighted the hard work of the Film Commission Officer, “Thank God for her and right now I have Miss Akira helping out…I'm pulling some other units to get assistance…I have great support."

The Film Commission Officer, she added, has been a great support. 

“She helps to reel it all in, keeping in contact, reminding me of a lot of things…she’s a great choice.”

Ms Hodge is also receiving assistance from persons outside of the commission and also thanked the Tourist Board for its support. 

The Film Commission is preparing to host the inaugural International Film Festival in the Virgin Islands from October 30 to November 2, 2025. 

Deadline for submission is September 15, 2025. 

BVI Film Commission

The Commission was established in 1992 to regulate film production activity in the Territory, promote the Virgin Islands as a premier film production location and grow and develop the local production scene.

The BVI Film Commission also acts as a liaison between film/photography producers and all relevant Government agencies, including Customs, Labour and Immigration Departments, National Parks Trust and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.