How Founder of Mama Lion Productions Irina Meyer is Relentlessly Working to End Gender Disparity in Media and Beyond 

Story by Marta Colombo

In the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, some individuals emerge not merely as players but as architects of new worlds, weaving stories that resonate deeply with audiences. 

Irina Meyer, the force behind Mama Lion Productions, stands as one such leader. With a portfolio that spans genres, mediums, and boundaries, she has carved a niche for herself as a creative, pushing the envelope of what storytelling can be. 

Thanks to her experience as a Founder and Managing Partner at global venture capital fund Sils Capital, Meyer has developed business acumen and a multi-faceted ability to recognise fruitful projects at a very early stage.

We recently sat down with her to discuss how she successfully incorporates passion, creativity and profit, as well as her relentless commitment to address gender disparity in multiple industries. 

For those who don’t know you, tell us about yourself and your professional background. 


I'm Irina Meyer, the founder of Mama Lion Productions. We create impactful, female-centric content that embraces authenticity and diversity. From uplifting dramas to unscripted reality game shows, we integrate diverse cultures into our content. 


I also lead Lioness Electric Airways, a female-owned Hybrid Electric Airline. Additionally, my commitment extends beyond business. My philanthropic passion is advocacy for women’s empowerment and the reshaping of societal narratives.

Please share some key points that you discussed during your presentation at the 2023 Prestel & Partner forum in Zurich. 


In my presentation, I addressed gender disparity in media and our strategy of pursuing global co-productions and leveraging international tax incentives. 


To ensure commercial success, we harness AI insights from Largo.ai and our focus is on the Latin American market, with plans to expand into additional countries. In addition, we aim to craft impactful stories for the Gen Z and Millennial audience.

What inspired you to transition from your role at Sils Capital to founding Mama Lion Productions?


The shift from Sils Capital to Mama Lion Productions was motivated by witnessing gender inequality in business and venture, which to me is largely influenced by poor media representation of women. 


I recognised this false perception, and I wanted to be a part of the change. Mama Lion allows me to directly address these issues, creating impactful narratives that contribute to reshaping the portrayal of women in the industry.

How has your background in venture capital influenced your approach to media production?


It taught me the importance of having a business-minded approach. While passion is invaluable, each project must be profitable and executed cost-effectively. It's about ensuring that every initiative reaches the widest possible audience. This intentional and strategic mindset is crucial in navigating the realms of business and making a lasting impact in the media.


Your focus on investing in women-led enterprises at Sils Capital is commendable. How does Mama Lion Productions continue to champion gender opportunities and empowerment within the entertainment industry?


We aspire to collaborate with women globally, continuing partnerships with individuals like renowned Guatemalan filmmaker, Veronica Riedel and various other women in film from around the world. This extends to those both in front and behind the screen. It's about creating a platform where women can actively contribute, not merely relying on merit support, but holding influential positions in decision-making.

In your experience, what specific challenges do women face in the field of media production, and how can the industry work towards greater inclusivity and equality?


There is a severe lack of women over 40 as lead or co-leads in major box office films and this extends behind the camera as well. Additionally, the lack of female leads from underrepresented communities remains a pressing issue. While there's some progress, there's still much work to be done. Encouraging, supporting, and showcasing more female creators and artists of all ages from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds is crucial for meaningful change on and off the screen.

What advice do you have for aspiring women professionals looking to make a mark in the media and entertainment industry, particularly those aiming to address gender disparities?


I know it's tough, but don't lose heart! Connect with successful women, and seek out mentors who can guide you. Persistence is key; keep telling your stories. Remember: Don't assume others necessarily know better than you. Your journey is unique, and your voice matters.