CBC New Indigenous Voices offers 14 weeks of full-time, immersive training for Indigenous creators aged 18 and over. Participants learn from industry experts and gain hands-on experience across key areas of film and television production.

Applications for the 2026 edition close on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 12 p.m. Central Time. Learn more and apply

There is no fee to apply.

Topics discussed in the Q+A webinar include how the three phases of the program work, what to expect during the internship placement and how short film scripts are selected for production. Sarah also answers questions about eligibility, application requirements and what the selection committee looks for, as well as participant supports such as pay, transportation, meals, travel and accommodations.

The webinar also highlights the program’s learning environment, including mentorship from industry professionals, opportunities to build networks and the integration of cultural supports such as access to an Elder and optional cultural practices.

Training includes six weeks of workshops and sessions with industry professionals, a short film production where participants rotate through multiple crew roles with mentor support and a six-week internship with a production company, studio or broadcaster. Participants are paid Manitoba minimum wage during the program.

CBC New Indigenous Voices is an entry-level program. Applicants do not need formal film training and are encouraged to apply with a range of experience, including self-taught learning, high school coursework or post-secondary studies.

If you have further questions, please contact program manager Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill at sarahs [dot] yellowquill [at] nsi-canada [dot] ca.

• • •

CBC New Indigenous Voices 2026 is funded by Title, Presenting and Tuition Sponsor CBC; Program Partners Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Neeginan Education, Training and Employment Services, Inc. (NETES), Telefilm Canada; Strategic Sponsors BC Film Foundation, The Winnipeg Foundation; Provincial Sponsor Manitoba Film & Music; Industry Supporters IATSE 856, On Screen Manitoba; Service Sponsor Line 21 Media Services. National Screen Institute Core Funders are Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council, Rogers. More sponsors will be added as confirmed.

The post Watch: CBC New Indigenous Voices 2026 Q+A webinar appeared first on National Screen Institute.

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday season from everyone at the National Screen Institute.

We look forward to connecting with you again in 2026!

The post Holiday closure: December 19 – January 4 appeared first on National Screen Institute.

If you are in a position to do so, we invite you to make a gift that removes real barriers for storytellers across the country.

As we spend time reflecting, one moment from this year stays with us.

A young creator travelled from the Yukon to Winnipeg for training because the support they needed for travel was available at the right time. Their determination was unmistakable, but without that help, they would have missed out on a career-starting opportunity.

One barrier removed created a new path forward.

Give storytellers the gift of opportunity.

Your participation today – giving a gift – opens doors. Travel assistance, support for access needs and meaningful mentorship create space for storytellers from Indigenous, equity-deserving and underrepresented communities to enter their next chapter with confidence.

Thank you for being part of this community and standing with storytellers across the country.

With gratitude,

Christine Kleckner
Executive Director

The post Give the gift of opportunity appeared first on National Screen Institute.

Gimli International Film Festival (GIFF) celebrated its 25th anniversary over the weekend. From July 23-27, the festival screened over 70 films, including several from our alumni. With features, short films and the GIFF Global Industry Summit, a whirlwind of filmmaking magic swept over the Manitoba town.

Festival goers enjoyed beach screenings at dusk and attended industry sessions which included masterclasses, presentations and a coffee talk with the National Screen Institute. The 14th annual RBC $15,000 Emerging Filmmaker Pitch Competition was held on Saturday with the winner receiving a story-editing and directing mentorship from Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill, manager of programs and development at the National Screen Institute.

Join us in celebrating the following alumni whose films screened at the festival:

• Aberdeen – directed, written and executive produced by Eva Thomas (NSI Totally Television), directed, written and produced by Ryan Cooper (CBC New Indigenous Voices, NSI IndigiDocs), executive produced by Kyle Bornais (NSI Features First) and Chris Charney (NSI Features First)
• Endless Cookie – produced by Daniel Bekerman (NSI Features First)
• Inkwo for When the Starving Return – directed, written, produced and executive produced by Amanda Strong; written by Bracken Hanuse Corlett (both NSI IndigiDocs)
• Rumours – produced by Liz Jarvis (NSI Features First)
• The Track – directed, written and produced by Ryan Sidhoo (Telefilm Talent to Watch)

The post Alumni at Gimli International Film Festival 2025 appeared first on National Screen Institute.

The statement was unveiled on Monday, June 9 at the Banff World Media Festival by Joan Jenkinson, CEO of the Black Screen Office; Christa Dickenson, CEO of CPAC; and Mike Omelus, Executive Director of Content and Strategy at APTN.

It reflects 11 shared values – representation, reflection, reconciliation, equity, diversity, access, support, collaboration, sustainability, accountability and showcasing Canadian stories to the world – committing signatories to implement those values in ways that suit their own organizational mandates.

The National Screen Institute has signed on as a founding signatory to the following statement:

We endorse the following statement of values as a reflection of our shared vision and goals for the Canadian screen industries. These values have been adopted at the senior leadership level of our respective organizations and guide our interactions with staff, members, creators, partners and audiences. Each organization will implement these values in a manner appropriate to its structure and mandate.

Values:

1. Representation

We commit to fostering a business and creative environment that offers Canadians access to high-quality Canadian and Indigenous stories across all platforms.

2. Reflection

We believe that all Canadians across the country have the right to see themselves reflected on Canadian screens in both official languages, Indigenous and other languages.

3. Showcase

We recognize our collective responsibility to reflect Canada to Canadians and to share our creative work with the world.

4. Reconciliation

We commit to taking meaningful steps towards reconciliation with Indigenous storytellers and audiences.

5. Diversity

We believe that diverse perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences (including those of individuals from diverse racial, sexual and gender identities and expressions, as well as those with disabilities) lead to stronger, more engaging and innovative content.

Join us. Sign on.

Show the world what Canada stands for.

6. Access

We commit to identifying and breaking down systemic barriers, including accessibility
barriers, so that Canadians can have opportunities to work and create in the Canadian
screen industries.

7. Support

We commit to supporting the Canadian creative economy as a vital contributor to both social cohesion and economic growth.

8. Collaboration

We commit to supporting opportunities for Canadians to collaborate with global
stakeholders and promote these values internationally, where practical for our organization.

9. Sustainability

We commit to fostering economic growth in the Canadian screen industry while working
toward environmental sustainability.

10. Accountability

We commit to setting clear, measurable goals and timelines for our organization to
implement these values in accordance with the needs and resources of our organization.

11. Equity

We commit to actively dismantling systemic discrimination, including racism, ableism and other forms of oppression, within our organizations and throughout the screen industry.

The signatories agree to work together to foster and support the Values across the Canadian screen industry, identify activities needed to implement the values at each organization and across the sector and to track and measure progress at our organization in implementing the Values.

• Add your organization
• See the list of signatories

The post Canadian Screen Industry Statement of Values appeared first on National Screen Institute.

BANFF World Media Festival is happening now! Running from June 8 – 11, the festival features keynotes, panels, market access and the Rockie Awards. Screen content creators and industry professionals from around the globe join to celebrate the industry, network, take meetings and handle business while enjoying the breathtaking views.

This year’s festival will see many alumni taking part in the Indigenous Screen Summit, Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative, speaking on panels and as Rockie Award nominees.

Join us in celebrating their hard work and achievements. Congratulations!

Indigenous Screen Summit

• Damien Eagle Bear (NSI IndigiDocs)
• Mike Gosselin (NSI Storytellers)
• Darcy Waite (CBC New Indigenous Voices, NSI IndigiDocs)
• Roxann Whitebean (Indigenous Languages and Culture Documentary Project, NSI IndigiDocs)

Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative

Pitch program

• Rosie Johnnie-Mills (TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators)
• Jessica Landry (NSI Series Incubator, Cinematoba)
• Raj Panikkar (NSI Features First, Access BIPOC Producers)
• Kamala Parel-Nuttall (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
• Patricia Scarlett (Access BIPOC Producers)

Professional development participants

• Praneet Akilla (Access BIPOC Producers)
• Jessica Brown (TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators)
• Patricia Chica (Access BIPOC Producers)
• Jim Compton (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)
• Gursimran Datla (Access BIPOC Producers)
• Teresa M. Ho (Access BIPOC Producers)
• Mitra Knight (Access BIPOC Producers)
• Moniquea Marion (NSI Series Incubator)
• Adrian Neblett (NSI Series Incubator)

BANFF World Media Festival Rockie Awards International Program Competition – nominees

Live Action: Children

• Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock – director and creative producer Jordan Canning (NSI Drama Prize)
• The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy – creator and executive producer / supervising producer Georgina López (NSI Drama Prize, Access BIPOC Producers), director Lora Campbell (NSI Drama Prize)

Live Action: Youth

• Beyond Black Beauty – producer Borga Dorter (NSI Totally Television)

Sports Documentary

• The Death Tour – director Sonya Ballantyne (CBC New Indigenous Voices, NSI IndigiDocs)

Comedy Series: English Language

• Late Bloomer – executive producer Nicole Butler (NSI Lifestyle & Reality Series Producer)

Short Form Fiction Series

• I Will Bury You – writer, director and producer Ravi Steve (NSI Script to Screen)
• My Dead Mom – executive producer Lauren Corber (NSI Totally Television), consulting producer Cynthia Knight (NSI Drama Prize, Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program) / WINNER

BANFF World Media Festival speakers

• Meet a Showrunner or Director – Wendy Hill-Tout (DramaLab)
• Indigenous Screen Summit Pitch Forum #3 Scripted Drama – Kyle Irving (NSI Global Marketing)

The post Alumni at BANFF World Media Festival 2025 appeared first on National Screen Institute.

Celebrating its 25^th anniversary, the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival returns from June 3-8 in Toronto and June 9-15 online. This celebration of Indigenous storytelling showcases entertaining, thought-provoking, beautiful work by Indigenous creators through screenings, exhibitions, special events and more.

This milestone edition of the festival includes 55 Indigenous Nations, 27 Indigenous languages, 16 countries, 77 emerging artists and 26 youth artists.

The festival’s official selections showcase 20 feature films, 11 short film programs, 14 digital and interactive works and 17 audio works.

National Screen Institute executive director Christine Kleckner and manager of programs and development Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill will be at the festival. Sarah will be participating in The Importance of Rest panel on June 7. If you see either of them in Toronto, please say hello!

The National Screen Institute is pleased to be a festival partner of imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival 2025.

Join us in celebrating the work of the talented alumni with projects at the festival:

Features

• Aberdeen – directed, written and produced by Ryan Cooper (CBC New Indigenous Voices, NSI IndigiDocs), directed, written and executive produced by Eva Thomas (NSI Totally Television), executive produced by Kyle Bornais (NSI Features First)
• Endless Cookie – produced by Daniel Bekerman (NSI Features First)
• Lucky Strikes – directed and written by Darcy Waite (CBC New Indigenous Voices, NSI IndigiDocs, NSI Series Incubator, Telefilm Talent to Watch), produced by Madison Thomas (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
• Seeds – executive produced by Eva Thomas (NSI Totally Television)
• #skoden – directed, written and produced by Damien Eagle Bear (NSI IndigiDocs), executive produced by Priyanka Desai (NSI Business for Producers, Access BIPOC Producers)
• Singing Back the Buffalo – directed, written and produced by Tasha Hubbard (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program, NSI IndigiDocs) / WINNER, Documentary Feature Award in honour of Alanis Obomsawin with support from TVO

Shorts

• Amber Alert: A Fashion Statement for Truth and Healing – directed by Alex Manitopyes (TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators)
• Anishinaabemowin – produced by Jessie Anthony (NSI Art of Business Management) and Kaitlyn Redcrow (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
• Anywhere (Nooj Goji) – produced by Melanie Nepinak Hadley (CBC New Indigenous Voices)
• Aviliaq (Entwined) – executive produced by Danis Goulet (NSI Drama Prize)
• Bihttoš (Rebel) – executive produced by Danis Goulet (NSI Drama Prize)
• Confluence – directed and written by ODMK (CBC New Indigenous Voices) / WINNER, Innovation in Storytelling Award in honour of Kent Monkman with support from Kent Monkman
• Graduation Day – directed by Tasha Hubbard (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program, NSI IndigiDocs)
• Inkwo for When the Starving Return – directed by Amanda Strong (NSI IndigiDocs) / WINNER, Animated Short Award with support from Blue Ant Media, Sun Jury Award with support from the Directors Guild of Canada
• Intemperance – directed, written and produced by Lisa Jackson (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program), executive produced by Danis Goulet (NSI Drama Prize)
• Mawtini (My Homeland) – story consultant Ben Kicknosway (NSI IndigiDocs)
• My Friend Saabe – produced by Laura Friedmann (Access BIPOC Producers)
• Ohskennón:ten Owí:ra (Little Deer) – produced by Jessie Anthony (NSI Art of Business Management)
• pîķîwî – directed, written and produced by Olivia Marie Golosky (NSI IndigiDocs)
• Regalia – directed, written and produced by Farrah Murdock (CBC New Indigenous Voices)
• Roberta – executive produced by Danis Goulet (NSI Drama Prize)
• Savage – directed and written by Lisa Jackson (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)
• Settler – produced by Colin Van Loon (NSI Art of Business Management)
• Skyworld – directed and written by Zoe Hopkins (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)
• The Light Before the Sun – consulting producer Jennifer Podemski (NSI Global Marketing, Telefilm Canada Spark Plug Program), associate produced by Eva Thomas (NSI Totally Television)
• Tsi tkahéhtayen (The Garden) – directed, written and produced by Zoe Hopkins (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program), produced by Laura Milliken (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)

iNdigital Days

• Wilfred Buck’s Star Stories – Lisa Jackson (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program) / WINNER, Digital + Interactive Award with support from imagineNATIVE

Panels

• imagineNATIVE’s Journey – A Leadership Conversation – panelists Danis Goulet and Kerry Swanson (both NSI Drama Prize)
• The Importance of Rest – panelist Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill (manager of programs and development)

The post Celebrating alumni at imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival 2025 appeared first on National Screen Institute.

The televised broadcast, hosted by Canadian performer and comedian Lisa Gilroy, will stream live on Sunday, June 1 at 7 p.m. CT on CBC Gem.

Among this year’s nominees are many familiar faces from the National Screen Institute alumni family. We are sending a big congratulations to all of you!

Film

Best Motion Picture

• The Apprentice – Daniel Bekerman (NSI Features First) / WINNER

Best Feature Length Documentary

• Wilfred Buck – Lisa Jackson (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)

TV

Best Drama Series

• Allegiance – Erin Haskett (NSI Drama Prize)
• Bones of Crows – Marie Clements (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program, Elevate), Trish Dolman (NSI Features First)
• Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent – Erin Haskett (NSI Drama Prize) / WINNER
• Sight Unseen – Virginia Rankin (NSI Global Marketing)

Best Comedy Series, presented by Lionsgate Canada

• Children Ruin Everything – Mark Montefiore (NSI Totally Television), Andrew De Angelis (NSI Totally Television), Alyson Richards (NSI Drama Prize, NSI Features First) / WINNER
• Don’t Even – Nicole Butler (NSI Lifestyle & Reality Series Producer), Zoe Hopkins (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)
• Late Bloomer – Nicole Butler (NSI Lifestyle & Reality Series Producer),
• One More Time – Jessie Gabe (NSI Script to Screen), Melanie Orr (NSI Diverse TV Director)

Best Lifestyle Program or Series

• Immigrant Kitchen: Lumpia – Orlando Braun (NSI Business for Producers)

Best Biography or Arts Documentary Program or Series

• Women of this Land – Jessica Brown (NSI Business for Producers, TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators)

Best Pre-School Program or Series

• The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy – Georgina Lopez (NSI Drama Prize, Access BIPOC Producers)

Best Children’s or Youth Fiction Program or Series

• Beyond Black Beauty – Borga Dorter (NSI Totally Television) / WINNER

Best Children’s or Youth Non-Fiction Program or Series

• Indigenous Art Adventures – Lance Cardinal (TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators)
• Sunny’s Quest – Mindy Laxer (NSI Global Marketing)

Best Factual Series

• Little Big Community – Angie Pepper O’Bomsawin (NSI Art of Business Management)

Best Direction, Drama Series, presented by DGC Ontario

• Allegiance – Nimisha Mukerji (NSI Totally Television)
• Bones of Crows – Marie Clements (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program, Elevate) / WINNER

Best Direction, Comedy, presented by Cinespace Studios

• Children Ruin Everything – Melanie Orr (NSI Diverse TV Director)
• Don’t Even – Zoe Hopkins (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)

Best Direction, Documentary Series

• Fluid: Life Beyond the Binary – Michelle Mama (Access BIPOC Producers)
• The Knowing – Courtney Montour (NSI IndigiDocs)
• Paid in Full: The Battle for Black Music – Alison Duke (Elevate)

Best Direction, Children’s or Youth

• All-Round Champion – Graeme Lynch (NSI Drama Prize)

Best Writing, TV Movie

• Bootcamp – Gemma Holdway (NSI Features First, NSI Totally Television)
• Obsessed to Death – Jessica Landry (NSI Series Incubator, Cinematoba)
• ‘Twas the Date Before Christmas – Ramona Barckert (NSI Script to Screen)

Best Writing, Drama Series

• Allegiance – Sarah Dodd (NSI Features First)
• Bones of Crows – Marie Clements (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program, Elevate)

Best Writing, Comedy

• Children Ruin Everything – Andrew De Angelis (NSI Totally Television)
• One More Time – Jessie Gabe (NSI Script to Screen)

Best Writing, Documentary

• The Knowing – Courtney Montour (NSI IndigiDocs) / WINNER

Best Photography, Drama

• Beyond Black Beauty – Amy Belling, CSC (NSI Features First) / WINNER

Best Ensemble Performance, Comedy

• The Trades – Susan Kent (Telefilm Talent to Watch)

Best Achievement in Casting, Non-Fiction

• The Great Canadian Baking Show – Meredith Veats (NSI Lifestyle & Reality Series Producer)

Digital Media

Best Web Program or Series, Fiction

• My Dead Mom – Lauren Corber (NSI Totally Television)

The post Alumni nominees at the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards appeared first on National Screen Institute.

Yorkton Film Festival runs from May 21 to May 25. With 78 years of history behind it, the festival remains dedicated to the promotion of the best screen-based media content. Today, the film Celebrating 75 Years Together screens at SaskAbilities. Following the opening night feature on Thursday, in-person screenings will run throughout Friday and Saturday with on-demand screenings running from Friday to Sunday.

Among the festival’s board of directors is the National Screen Institute’s senior programs manager, Ursula Lawson. She will be joined at the festival by Danielle Audette, manager of programs and partner support and Grace Bruinooge, operations administrator.

This year’s Golden Sheaf Awards nominees include many alumni and a few current program participants. Please join us in celebrating the following nominees and panelists.

Nominees

• 7TH GEN – “Curtis Howson” – directed and produced by Dinae Robinson (CBC New Indigenous Voices), produced by Lisa Meeches (NSI Storytellers, co-creator of CBC New Indigenous Voices) and Kyle Irving (NSI Global Marketing)
  • Documentary history and biography
• AMI – Our Community – Scope Society – directed and produced by Brent Kawchuk (NSI Drama Prize)
  • Mental health
• Am I the Skinniest Person You’ve Ever Seen? – directed by Eisha Marjara (NSI Features First), produced by Joe Balass (NSI Features First, Access BIPOC Producers)
  • Documentary social / political, Kathleen Shannon Award
• Bodies for Rent – produced by Amar Lohana (Access BIPOC Producers)
  • Documentary social / political, Kathleen Shannon Award
• Boutique – directed by Brishkay Ahmed (Access BIPOC Producers)
  • Short subject – fiction (over 15 minutes)  / WINNER
• Brotherly – directed and produced by Gavin Seal (Access BIPOC Producers), produced by Jen Viens (NSI Business for Producers)
  • Director fiction / WINNER, Multicultural, Short subject – fiction (15 minutes and under)
• Healing Hearts – directed and produced by Amy Belling (NSI Features First)
  • Short subject – non-fiction
• Inkwo for When the Starving Return – directed and produced by Amanda Strong (NSI IndigiDocs)
  • Animation / WINNER, Director fiction, Indigenous / WINNER
• Judith Jacquie Grace – directed by Amy Belling (NSI Features First)
  • Documentary POV (Point of View)
• My Dead Mom –produced by Lauren Corber (NSI Totally Television)
  • Series
• My Son Went Quiet – directed and produced by Ian Bawa (NSI Totally Television, NSI Business for Producers, Telefilm Talent to Watch), produced by Markus Henkel (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
  • Director fiction, Multicultural, Short subject – fiction (15 minutes and under) / WINNER
• OBSCURA – directed and produced by Arnold Lim (NSI Features First)
  • Director fiction, Short subject – fiction (15 minutes and under)
• Rosa’s Flowers – produced by Fonna Seidu (NSI Business for Producers, Access BIPOC Producers, Telefilm Talent to Watch)
  • Experimental
• “SaskTel Business – Eero WiFi” – Allan Roeher (NSI Business for Producers)
  • Best commercial, Best Saskatchewan commercial
• Singing Back the Buffalo – directed and produced by Tasha Hubbard (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program, NSI IndigiDocs)
  • Indigenous
• Stories of the North – Season 3 – produced by Kyle Burgess and Allia Janzen (both NSI Business for Producers)
  • Children’s / youth production / WINNER
• Why Am I – Season 6 – produced by Dawn Bird (NSI Business for Producers, Access BIPOC Producers, NSI Series Incubator)
  • Children’s / youth production
• You’re My Hero – directed by Greg Jeffs (NSI Features First), produced by Colette Jeffs (NSI Features First)
  • Series

Panelists

• Danielle Audette, manager of programs and partner support; Grace Bruinooge, operations administrator
  • Industry 1-on-1s
• Melanie Nepinak Hadley (NSI Aboriginal Youth Pilot Project)
  • View from the Top
• Leslea Mair (NSI Global Marketing)
  • The Art of the Re-enactment

The post Alumni at Yorkton Film Festival 2025 appeared first on National Screen Institute.

National Canadian Film Day celebrates our stories and the incredible achievements of filmmakers while connecting our cultures and shared values.

This year, we are excited to share the award-winning short film The Difference Between Us written and directed by Dabi Anele, who collaborated with co-participants from last year’s NSI Intro to Production – Manitoba Edition to bring the film to life.

For today only, The Difference Between Us is available for exclusive viewing above from 12 a.m. CT to 11:59 p.m. CT.

After watching the film, enjoy the Q+A below with Dabi Anele and the National Screen Institute’s communications and outreach manager Abiola Agbayewa, introduced by Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill, manager of programs and development.

Q+A with Dabi Anele

We hope you’ll watch (and rewatch) the film while it’s still available on our website. Include us in your #CanFilmDay celebrations by tagging us (@nsicanada), @canfilmday and @reelcanada on Instagram.

Enjoy this massive, one-day celebration of Canadian cinema!

About The Difference Between Us

Rebecca, a young white woman, learns unexpected news that unsettles the already fragile dynamic with her boyfriend — a relationship built more on expectation than love. Beneath it all lies a long-suppressed longing for Emmanuel, her closest friend, a Black man she’s never dared to love openly.

One impulsive night brings buried feelings to the surface leading to a tense conversation where they confront their fears and what they really want.

The Difference Between Us explores race, desire and the courage to choose your own path over the one prescribed.

About writer/director Dabi Anele

Dabi Anele is an award-winning filmmaker whose incisive storytelling examines the complexities of human connection. His short film The Difference Between Us won Best Student Film at the Black Actors and Film Guild Canada’s Canadian Black Screen Awards 2025, establishing him as a compelling new voice in cinema.

With a multifaceted background spanning acting, screenwriting, directing, advisory and production, Dabi’s work is informed by his training at the National Screen Institute and experience across Canadian television. His filmmaking combines technical precision with emotional resonance, creating narratives that challenge audiences while remaining grounded.

Instagram: @itsdabii_

• • •

NSI Intro to Production – Manitoba Edition offered hands-on training to refugees and newcomers to Manitoba who arrived in Canada within the last five years and were interested in working in film and television. The program began with online workshops focused on scriptwriting, followed by a six-day, in-person workshop where participants collaborated on a short film written by one of their peers.

2024 NSI Intro to Production participants:

• Roula Al-Kayal
• Dabi Anele
• Alireza Bayat
• Katnancy Cumti
• Heady Fortuna
• Vira Mylyan-Monastyrska
• Elijah Oyibu
• Hossam Presly
• Sukhmanpreet Singh
• Kateryna Starikova

All participants resided in Winnipeg, Manitoba at the time of training.

• • •

NSI Intro to Production – Manitoba Edition was funded by Program Partner Manitoba Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund, Strategic Sponsors Telefilm Canada and Warner Bros. Discovery Access Canada, Provincial Sponsor Manitoba Film and Music, Industry Supporters Reel Canada and On Screen Manitoba. Core Funders: Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism and the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council.

The post Happy National Canadian Film Day 2025! appeared first on National Screen Institute.

This edition supports the creation of 20- to 45-minute locally reflective documentaries, scripted films or series pilots. In addition to funding, each selected project will receive National Screen Institute-facilitated mentorship from industry experts and will be distributed on TELUS Optik TV and the STORYHIVE YouTube channel.

Celebrating Pan-Asian voices

The Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition celebrates the breadth and depth of narratives from Pan-Asian creatives in Canada, aiming to showcase the unique and diverse experiences of Asian communities. The program is open to new and emerging filmmakers in British Columbia and Alberta who are of Asian descent from any region of continental Asia.

Whether you’re telling stories rooted in heritage, identity, community or personal experience, TELUS STORYHIVE is looking to amplify voices that reflect the richness of Pan-Asian perspectives.

Applications are open until May 15, 2025.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.storyhive.com/programs/editions/edition-pan-asian-storyteller

The post STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition now open for applications appeared first on National Screen Institute.

In this Q+A webinar, program manager Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill provides an overview of CBC New Indigenous Voices, alum Matthew Shoup shares his experiences as a participant and then Sarah answers audience questions. This Q+A webinar was recorded on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Sarah’s contact information is below.

CBC New Indigenous Voices offers 14-weeks of full-time, immersive training for Indigenous creators aged 18 and over to learn from industry experts and gain hands-on experience in the essential elements of film and television.

Applications close on Thursday, March 27 at 12 p.m. CT. Apply now!

There is no fee to apply.

Topics discussed in the Q+A webinar include the internship process, what the selection committee looks for in applications and accommodation and travel assistance for participants outside Manitoba. Additionally, Sarah talks about industry mentorship and networking opportunities.

Training begins in May 2025 with two weeks of online sessions followed by six weeks of in-person workshops and short film production on Treaty 1 Territory in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This multi-phase format offers comprehensive skills development, short film production experience and an internship placement.

If you have further questions, please contact program manager Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill, sarahs [dot] yellowquill [at] nsi-canada [dot] ca.

• • •

CBC New Indigenous Voices 2025 is funded by Title, Presenting and Tuition Sponsor CBC; Program Partners Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Neeginan Education, Training and Employment Services, Inc. (NETES), Telefilm Canada; Provincial Sponsor Manitoba Film & Music; National Screen Institute Core Funders are Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism and the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council. More sponsors will be added as confirmed.

The post Watch: CBC New Indigenous Voices 2025 Q+A webinar appeared first on National Screen Institute.

At the National Screen Institute, we believe in the power of stories to connect us, challenge us and remind us of what’s possible. By fostering creativity and entrepreneurialism through mentorship, immersive workshops and business sustainability labs, we serve as a launchpad for storytellers to thrive, innovate and succeed.

Donate now to support storytellers across Canada.

Your donation is a powerful act of belief in a vibrant,
inclusive and sustainable future for all of us.

Our commitment to diversifying the screen industry ensures equity-deserving voices can lead with agency, independence and authority across all facets of production.

With 82% of our alumni identifying as underrepresented voices, we are seeing profound and measurable shifts both on-screen and behind the scenes.

When you donate to the National Screen Institute, you invest in people that reflect the depth and scope of talent across the country.

Donate today. Together, this Giving Tuesday, we can transform the screen industry – one story, one storyteller, one donation at a time.

Warmest regards,

Christine Kleckner
Executive Director

The post This Giving Tuesday, let’s transform stories into action appeared first on National Screen Institute.

You bring a strong foundation in financial reporting, excellent communication and organizational skills and a passion for problem-solving.

As a vital part of our finance team, you will manage multiple priorities, collaborate effectively across departments and be instrumental in maintaining the integrity of our financial records. Your contributions will help drive operational improvements and directly support our mission to make a positive impact in the community.

As the ideal candidate, you are also passionate about storytelling and storytellers. You value equity, diversity and inclusion and are knowledgeable about these issues. You align with the values which guide the work of the National Screen Institute, have experience working cross-culturally and are committed to serving storytellers from underrepresented communities.

The organization

Propelled by a visionary network of donors, private and public organizations, staff and board, the National Screen Institute supports diverse creators from across Canada to tell unforgettable stories. Through industry-informed training and mentoring in film, television, and digital media, our students and alumni find their voices and places on the global stage, inspiring us to shape a better world.

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Status: Full-time, permanent position

Reports to: Controller

Salary: $57,000 per annum (Fully employer-paid health benefits and RRSP matching after 3 months)

Application deadline: January 6, 2025, by 12 p.m., Central Time

Download the full job description.

Responsibilities and duties

Weekly payment processing and vendor management

• Record and process weekly payments in QuickBooks ensuring accuracy and timely processing of all transactions
• Organize and maintain financial records both physical and digital to ensure proper filing, archiving and compliance of payment related documents
• Respond to payment enquiries in a timely manner
• Update and maintain vendor information in accounting system
• Review and reconcile monthly VISA statements and record VISA transactions and manage monthly statement distribution as needed

Financial reporting and account reconciliation

• Generate financial reports for program managers that are accurate, detailed and tailored to meet specific program needs. Ensure reports clearly highlight key financial metrics, variances and trends to assist in decision-making
• Review and generate financial variance reports and analyze discrepancies between budgeted and actual figures
• Assist in the creation and updated maintenance of policy templates and financial documentation
• Support the annual audit process
• Perform specific balance sheet account reconciliations as directed by the controller
• Prepare ad hoc analysis and reports as needed

Other support

• Coordinate funding schedules and reporting deadlines, ensuring all financial obligations are met in a timely manner.

Qualifications and skills

• Post-secondary degree or certificate related to accounting or equivalent combination of education and / or experience
• Minimum one year of accounting experience or two to three years of experience in related financial or administrative roles
• Proficient in office productivity tools such as SharePoint, Microsoft Teams and Excel
• Exceptional organizational, problem-solving and time management skills, capable of managing multiple priorities and meeting deadlines
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Dedicated to the mission and values of the National Screen Institute
• This position is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check
• Proficiency with QuickBooks is an asset

Note: This job description is intended to convey essential job responsibilities and qualifications. It is not an exhaustive list of duties and the role may evolve based on organizational needs.

Benefits of working at the National Screen Institute

Our organization values employee well-being and flexibility, offering a hybrid work environment that combines remote and in-office work. Employees are expected to be in the office for certain days each week. We also support a balanced lifestyle with a four-day work week, running from Monday to Thursday. We seek dedicated individuals who are committed to contributing positively and consistently to our team’s goals.

How to apply

Only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

Please submit your cover letter and resume to oy***************@********da.ca by January 6, 2025, by 12 p.m. (noon), Central Time.

The post Job opportunity: join our team as finance coordinator appeared first on National Screen Institute.

Produced by a talented group of emerging Indigenous filmmakers across British Columbia and Alberta, the projects include dramas, comedies and documentaries. 

The National Screen Institute is excited to have provided mentorship support for the Indigenous Storyteller Edition through our partnership with TELUS STORYHIVE.  

Celebrating a decade of partnership, we are thrilled to continue to help empower storytellers, offering them a platform to hone their craft, connect with peers, gain practical experience and share their unique narratives through their participation in TELUS STORYHIVE Editions. 

Watch the sizzle reel above and tune into TELUS Optik TV channel 9, channel 126, Stream+ and STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel to watch all the projects. 

The post TELUS STORYHIVE: Celebrating the Indigenous Storyteller Edition projects premiere appeared first on National Screen Institute.

Funded by RBC Foundation and facilitated by the National Screen Institute, the award provides $10,000 financial support to a filmmaker and their current or future project or career goals. The award also comes with two hours of mentorship and advice from Sonya, who serves as the award advisor.

Part one

Dolly, a member of the Sn’pintktn Indian Band, and Sonya, from the Swampy Cree Nation, discuss the RBC Emerging Indigenous Filmmaker Award, their filmmaking journeys and finding inspiration in their communities. Dolly also gives a glimpse into the origins of S’tayena: a stickgames story, the documentary project which she submitted for her award application.

Transcript

Part two

We spend more time with award mentor Sonya Ballantyne. I ask Sonya how she became the mentor for the RBC Emerging Indigenous Filmmaker Award and what role mentorship has played in her career. Dolly then guides the conversation towards what she would like to learn from Sonya.

What follows is a sneak peek into the mentoring that Dolly will receive. Sonya provides thoughtful, detailed advice for Dolly and other emerging filmmakers, with a special focus on female Indigenous filmmakers.

Sonya is candid and generous, sharing personal experiences and practical advice that filmmakers can implement right away, while also encouraging Dolly in both her filmmaking and entrepreneurial journeys.

Transcript

Congratulations, Dolly! Read more about the RBC Emerging Indigenous Filmmaker Award in our media release. Follow along as we continue to share news about Dolly and the amazing work she’s doing!

The post Lives and landscapes: RBC Emerging Indigenous Filmmaker Dolly Kruger and Sonya Ballantyne appeared first on National Screen Institute.

The St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival (SJIWFF) starts today and runs until October 26. Celebrating 35 years, this year’s festival will uphold its tradition of exceptional films, engaging artist panels, insightful industry consultations, networking opportunities and vibrant community celebrations.

Our executive director Christine Kleckner will be there, and alumni will showcase their films and take part in panels and events. Please join us in applauding their achievements.

Features

• A Mother Apart – co-written and produced by Alison Duke (Elevate), produced by Ngardy Conteh George (Access BIPOC Producers, formerly EAVE Access on Demand)
• Meet the Missus – produced by Ruth Lawrence (NSI Business for Producers – Atlantic Women’s Edition)
• Paying For It – co-produced by Natalie Urquhart (NSI Drama Prize)
• There, There – produced by Martha Cooley (NSI Drama Prize)
• Wilfred Buck – directed, written and produced by Lisa Jackson (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)

Shorts

• Anywhere (Nooj Goji) – produced by Melanie Nepinak Hadley (CBC New Indigenous Voices)
• Finding Grace: A Soul Song – directed by Ruth Lawrence (NSI Business for Producers – Atlantic Women’s Edition)
• NOLA – directed, written and produced by Aisha Evelyna (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
• Our Grandmother the Inlet – co-written by Jaime Leigh Gianopoulos (TELUS STORYHIVE)

Panels and events

• Brunch with Sweet Angel Baby – moderated by Ruth Lawrence (NSI Business for Producers – Atlantic Women’s Edition)
• Doc Story – panelist Lisa Jackson (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)
• The Changemakers – panelist Tonya Williams (NSI Global Marketing)
• The International Lens – moderated by Jan Miller (National Screen Institute co-founder)
• The Small But Mighty Screen – panelist Jordan Canning (NSI Drama Prize), hosted by Renée Hackett (NSI Business for Producers – Atlantic Women’s Edition)
• Trailblazer Awards – recipients Rosemary House, Mary Sexton (both NSI Features First)

Face 2 Face meetings

• Christine Kleckner (NSI Drama Prize), National Screen Institute executive director
• Melanie Nepinak Hadley (CBC New Indigenous Voices), National Screen Institute board member

The post St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival 2024: alumni films and faces appeared first on National Screen Institute.

On September 10, alumni, staff, faculty past and present, partners and friends gathered at Winnipeg’s West End Cultural Centre in celebration of the 20^th anniversary of CBC New Indigenous Voices.

For two decades, CBC New Indigenous Voices, presented by the National Screen Institute, has been a vital training ground for Indigenous creators eager to make their mark in film, TV and digital media.

This full-time, 14-week program has guided 180 participants through the essential skills needed to succeed in the industry, blending traditional teachings with practical, hands-on experience.

The program’s focus on real-world training, including workshops, production and industry internships, has led to tangible results for alumni: their films have reached global audiences, won major awards and they’ve stepped into roles as industry leaders and mentors for new generations of creators.

As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the meaningful contributions these storytellers have made, thanks to a program that prioritizes learning, growth and creative expression.

The 20^th anniversary event kicked off with a prayer from Elder and Knowledge Keeper Colin Mousseau and opening remarks from National Screen Institute executive director Christine Kleckner.

The evening’s emcee, Melanie Nepinak Hadley (National Screen Institute board member and program alum), kept the crowd on the edge of their seats with well-timed humour and effortless charm.

We were all treated to a walk down memory lane by program creator Lisa Meeches and co-creator Vanessa Loewen (co-creator Melissa Kajpust was unable to attend but her presence was felt), program advisor and program alum Erica Daniels and senior programs manager Ursula Lawson. Program manager Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill provided closing remarks.

We also heard from some of the program’s sponsors without whom this program would not be possible. Speakers included the Honourable Glen Simard, Manitoba Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism; Melanie Verhaeghe, managing editor at CBC Manitoba; Marileen Bartlett, co-executive director of the Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development (CAHRD) and Julie Roy, executive director and CEO of Telefilm Canada.

Several alumni were spotlighted in a video sharing what the program has meant to them accompanied by a showcase of student film clips from the program’s 20 years. The stories and highlights underscored the transformative nature of the program and the remarkable talent and dedication that every group of participants brings year after year.

While meeting, mingling and reminiscing, guests ate delicious food from local vendors Sharecuterie and Shelly’s Bistro and enjoyed music by Morgan Grace Music and Lisa Muswagon.

It was a beautiful way to reflect on 20 years of this groundbreaking program and look ahead at more to come.

We extend heartfelt thanks to those who have left an indelible footprint on the program over the years. Thank you to all of the CBC New Indigenous Voices alumni and faculty who have made this program the success that it is!

Among this amazing broad group of creators, the program faculty in attendance at the event included:

• Cody Blacksmith, program alum and associate faculty (sound workshops)
• Roger Boyer, program alum and associate faculty (directing workshops and panel moderating)
• Grace Bruinooge, current program coordinator
• Tanya Brunel, program and National Screen Institute alum and former associate faculty (production workshops)
• Erica Daniels, program alum and program advisor
• Julie Hackett, associate faculty (led editing workshops and edited all films throughout the program’s 20-year history)
• Lisa Meeches, creator of CBC New Indigenous Voices and National Screen Institute alum
• Colin Mousseau, Elder and Knowledge Keeper
• Ursula Lawson, former program manager and current senior programs manager
• Vanessa Loewen, co-creator of CBC New Indigenous Voices
• Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill, current program manager
• Jordan Wheeler, associate faculty (story and scriptwriting workshops)
• Kaya Wheeler, former program manager and current Indigenous Screen Office representative within the program
• Erica Wilson, associate faculty (grant writing instructor)

Alumni in attendance included:

• Luther Alexander (2014)
• Cody Blacksmith (2015)
• Roger Boyer (2007)
• Viola Cameron (2024)
• Erica Daniels (2010)
• Sage Daniels (2014)
• Jaydon Flett (2014)
• Damian Frazee (2018)
• Craig Guiboche (2007)
• Janell Henry (2020)
• Amanda Kindzierski (2014)
• John Luke (2023)
• Nathaniel Magbanua (2020)
• Farrah Murdock (2022)
• Linsey Murdock (2023)
• Logan Nadeau (2021)
• Melanie Nepinak Hadley (2005)
• Jody-Leigh Pacey (2010)
• Matthew Shoup (2024)
• Amanda Smart (2007)
• Dion Telesky (2010)
• Jerry Wolf (2024)
• Kane Wood (2024)

If we missed you, please let us know!

This program would not be possible without the keen interest and generosity of our sponsors over the years.

Thank you to the anniversary event sponsors Assiniboine Credit Union and Imprints & More.

CBC New Indigenous Voices 2024 was funded by Title, Presenting and Tuition Sponsor CBC; Program Partners Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development (CAHRD), Telefilm Canada; Director / Production Sponsor Directors Guild of Canada (DGC); Provincial Sponsors Manitoba Film & Music, Creative BC through the Daryl Duke & William Vince Scholarship Fund; Industry Partners IATSE Local 856, Eagle Vision, Final Draft, Coverfly; Industry Supporter On Screen Manitoba; Service Sponsors Sunbelt Rentals Film & TV, Line 21 Media Services, iSplice Films, Shelly’s Bistro. National Screen Institute Core Funders are Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism and the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council.

Past program supporters include:

• Aboriginal Media Educational Fund​
• Canwest Global​
• CTV Inc.​
• Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) ​
• Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries

• Mother of Red Nations Council of Manitoba​
• NBCUniversal​
• Province of Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern Affairs​
• RBC Financial Group​
• RBC Foundation​
• Rogers
• The City of Winnipeg​
• The Suzanne Rochon-Burnett Fund​
• The Winnipeg Foundation​
• William F. White International​
• Women in Media Foundation

The post CBC New Indigenous Voices: 20th anniversary celebration appeared first on National Screen Institute.

The 43^rd annual Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) starts tomorrow! Running until October 6, VIFF showcases films from around the globe, live performances, talks and industry sessions.

Congratulations to the following alumni whose work and / or words of wisdom will be shared at this year’s festival.

Features

• 40 Acres – executive produced by Sudz Sutherland (NSI Totally Television), produced by Jennifer Holness (NSI Drama Prize, Telefilm Spark Plug Program, NSI Global Marketing)
• Inay (Mama) – executive produced by Priscilla Galvez (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
• Inedia – executive produced by Daniel Bekerman (NSI Features First)
• Luther: Never Too Much – executive produced by Richard Story (Telefilm Spark Plug Program, Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)
• Measures for a Funeral – produced by Priscilla Galvez (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
• Mongrels – written, directed, executive produced by Jerome Yoo (TELUS STORYHIVE), produced, executive produced by Nach Dudsdeemaytha (Access BIPOC Producers)
• Preface to a History – written by Sophy Romvari (Telefilm Talent to Watch)
• Rumours – produced by Liz Jarvis (NSI Features First)
• Seeds – executive produced by Eva Thomas (NSI Totally Television)
• So Surreal: Behind the Masks – executive produced by Catherine Bainbridge (NSI Global Marketing), Ernest Webb (Featuring Aboriginal Stories Program)
• There, There – produced by Martha Cooley (NSI Drama Prize)
• Village Keeper – executive produced by Floyd Kane (NSI Totally Television), Molly McGlynn (NSI Drama Prize), Lora Campbell (NSI Drama Prize)

Shorts

• Hatch (VIFF Short Forum 5) – co-directed, executive produced, produced by Panta Mosleh (Access BIPOC Producers, formerly EAVE Access on Demand)
• Inkwo: For When the Starving Return (Short Fuse) – directed, co-written, produced by Amanda Strong, co-written by Bracken Hanuse Corlett (both NSI IndigiDocs)
• One Day This Kid  (VIFF Short Forum 1) – produced by Joaquin Cardoner (Telefilm Talent to Watch)

VIFF Talks

• Across Generations with Alanis Obomsawin & Amanda Strong – Amanda Strong (NSI IndigiDocs)

VIFF Industry

• Betting on Yourself: Short Form Edition – featured speaker Mary Galloway (TELUS STORYHIVE), moderator Kate Green (NSI Totally Television, NSI Lifestyle & Reality Series Producer)

The post Alumni projects at VIFF 2024 appeared first on National Screen Institute.

Through a series of intimate roundtables, coinciding with the 2024 fall festivals, the BSO wants to hear from you, share insights and discuss how we can work together to amplify Black voices in the Canadian screen industry.

The tour stops in Winnipeg on Wednesday, October 9.

What to expect

• Delve into the unique challenges and opportunities of working in your region. Your input is crucial as the BSO explores ways to strengthen regional collaboration and ensure their programs meet your needs.
• Learn about upcoming BSO initiatives, including travel and accommodation support for select programs, and how you can get involved.
• Be the first to hear about the soon-to-be-launched Black Screen Office Fund, designed to support Black Canadian creators in bringing their stories to life.
• Connect with peers over light refreshments as we build a stronger, more connected Black creative community across Canada.

Why attend?

This tour is your opportunity to shape the future of the Black Screen Office and ensure your voice is heard in their national strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an emerging talent, your perspective is invaluable.

Don’t miss out on this chance to influence the direction of BSO’s programs and policies. Spaces are limited, so please RSVP early to secure your spot at the Winnipeg roundtable.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

October 9, 2024 | 3 to 5 p.m.

Manitoba Film and Music, Suite 410 – 93 Lombard Ave.

RSVP today!

See all tour dates and locations.

Sponsored by: Bell Fund

About the Black Screen Office (BSO)

The Black Screen Office helps build a screen industry free of anti-Black racism, by working with industry decision-makers to change practices and build systems for accountability, directly catalyzing the production of Black-led content and supporting the career advancement of Black professionals.

Further enquiries: Black Screen Office, in**@*****en.ca.

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