As an animator, joining communities where you get to meet and connect with fellow animators or creative professionals in the animation industry is a crucial step in sustaining a successful career in animation.

However, it's still important that you choose the animation community or communities that reflect who you are as an animator and what you want to accomplish. Be sure to carefully look into the different animation communities above before making your choice.

Among the hundreds of animation communities you can join, the top 7 ones are the following:

1. The Society for Animation Studies (SAS)

Founded in 1987 by Dr. Harvey Deneroff, joining this international animation community will enrich your knowledge of animation studies, introducing you to various traditional and modern theories and ideas.

2. The Animation Network (TAN)

The goal of this animation community is to educate, excite, and inspire people about TV animation and share valuable experiences and insights that will help them carve their path as an animator.

3. The International Animated Film Association (ASIFA)

The first established and farthest-reaching international organization dedicated to connecting animators around the world, with its animation festivals, events, lectures, project collaboration, correspondences, and mentoring.

4. The Rookies

The Rookies is an annual mentorship and awards platform for young creatives in the field of animation, including visual effects, motion graphics, architecture visualization.

5. Visual Effects Society (VES)

Its mission is to advocate the arts, sciences, and applications of visual effects and improve the welfare of its members by offering professional enrichment opportunities and fostering a positive community aimed toward growth and recognition.

6. Women in Animation (WIA)

The only animation community dedicated to advancing, supporting, and protecting women in the field of animation. It was founded in 1955 with the mission to create a world where women equally share in the creation, production, and rewards of animation.

7. The Animation Guild (TAG)

This animation guild thoroughly negotiates for its members, provides pension and health benefits, and acts as an advocate for members over disputes between employees and employers.

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