Since 1956, Alliance for Women in Media’s Southern California Chapter has presented the highest honor, the Genii (pronounced "Jeannie") Award, in the name of Chapter Founder, Jeanne Gray McDonald. The award acknowledges the notable achievements of excellence by women in media and entertainment.

Genii honorees are recognized for their pioneering efforts, dedicated leadership, commitment to quality and excellence, and their community contributions. Genii honorees have made significant contributions to the industry, upholding the mission of the organization to promote progress and create change within the industry.

Past Genii award winners include: Betty White, Florence Henderson, Ellen Degeneres, Camryn Manheim, Heather Locklear, Jamie Lee Curtis, Candice Bergen, Lucille Ball, Carole Black, Anne Sweeney, Whoopi Goldberg, Dr. Laura Schlessinger, and many others.

The Genii's are now accepting submissions in five categories - Narrative Short - Drama, Narrative Short - Comedy, Documentary Short, Short Script - Drama, and Short Script - Comedy.

The Genii Awards benefit AWM SoCal’s scholarship program and educational programs.

Awards in five categories:

BEST NARRATIVE SHORT - DRAMA
BEST NARRATIVE SHORT - COMEDY
BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT
BEST SHORT SCRIPT - DRAMA
BEST SHORT SCRIPT - COMEDY

Award winners win two tickets to the 2017 Genii Awards and will be recognized with a trophy at the Awards ceremony. Please note - Airfaire and lodging are not included.

- All entries must be either written, produced or directed by a woman, or have a strong female protagonist(s). Films that shine a light on women's issues are also welcome.
- All entries must be under 30 minutes long (30 pages or less for screenplay categories).
- All entires must be uploaded as digital submissions into FilmFreeway.