2024/25
Land Acknowledgement
Located within the city known as Toronto, or Tkaronto, in Treaty 13 Territory, the CFC is a settler organization located on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabeg, including the Mississaugas of the Credit and the Chippewa; the Haudenosaunee; and the Wendat Tkaronto is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples
The land the CFC occupies is protected by the Dish With One Spoon covenant, an agreement between the Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee to peaceably share and care for the Great Lakes region
As members of Canadian society, we are all Treaty people Many of the individuals who work at the CFC and on this land have come to what is known as Canada as settlers, immigrants or newcomers, whether forcibly or by choice, in this, or previous, generations We thank and honour all those who came before us and ask that wherever you are located as you read this report, we encourage you to reflect on the land that you are on, your relationship with the land, who the traditional keepers of the land are, and what the treaty relationship is. You can start by visiting native-land.ca to learn more.
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Messagefromthe Chair&ExecutiveDirector
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TALENTSPOTLIGHT:MalachiEllis
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TALENTSPOTLIGHT:AnnaCatley
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NewProgram:CInematographyIntensive
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NewProgram:HairandMakeupIntensive
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CFCCommunity
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CFCPartners
CFCBoardofDirectors Page 25
InMemoriamPage 28-29
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LandAcknowledgement
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TheNormanJewisonFilmP
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TALENTSPOTLIGHT:Gillia
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TALENTSPOTLIGHT:IrisN
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CBCActorsConservatory
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TALENTSPOTLIGHT:Ash
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CFCbytheNumbers
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CFCEvents
CircleofSupporters Page 26
CFCStaff Page 27
Message from the Chair & Executive Director
Dear Benefactors, Friends, Alumni, Creative Industries, and Government Partners,
This year, the CFC proudly celebrated the extraordinary talent of Canadian storytellers including 64 alumni whose work showcased at TIFF Through our hands-on programs, from championing women cinematographers to training hair and makeup artists, and spotlighting Black excellence in our CFC Conversations, we continued to nurture the voices shaping our culture. None of this would have been possible without your belief in us We thank you
As we look ahead, our “Catalyst for Creatives” Five-Year Strategic Plan is designed to elevate the next generation of storytellers by focusing on Creativity, Careers, and Community We are committed to training these creators in modern production methodologies and market readiness, so that Canadian stories resonate on the global stage.
This vision is bold, and we cannot do it alone Achieving it requires the collective strength of our partners across the creative industries As you turn these pages and witness the impact of the CFC, we invite you to stand with us and invest in the voices of the next generation and help shape the future of Canadian storytelling. Together, we can ensure that our stories don’t just live on, but they ignite imaginations and inspire hearts globally for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Neishaw Ali Chair, CFC Board of Directors CEO & Executive Producer, SpinVFX
maxine bailey Executive Director, CFC
The Norman Film Program
Over 5 ½ months of intensive learning, residents heard from and met with 126 Canadian and international film and TV industry professionals. The sessions offered a variety of perspectives, different methodologies on business and creative practices, real craft/story skills development while facilitating an exchange of intel and knowledge. Additionally, mentors provided oneon-one guidance, continuity and expertise to residents on various aspects of storytelling, and career strategies.
Residentsmetwithandheardfrom137industryprofessionals
Guestsessionsofferedavaretyofperspectves,differentmethodoogesonbusness&creative practices andrealwordcraft/storyskilsdevelopmentwhiefaciitatnganexchangeofinte.
Producers’Labhosted80+sessons/workshops
Drectors Labhosted40+sessions/workshops
Wrters’Labhosted35+sessions/workshops
Editors Labhosted30+sessions/workshops
Ourresidentsworkedcloselywith28mentors
Mentorsprovidedone-on-oneguidance,continutyandexpertseonvarousaspectsofstoryteling and crosscolaboratvework,whleasosupportngandchalengingtheresidentstoelevatetheirvoicesand theirabiitytoexecuteonthervision
Producersbenefittedfromover25indvdualsessions
Drectorsbenefttedfromover40individualsessons
Wrtersbenefittedfromover60indivdualsessions
Editorsbenefittedfromover15 ndvidua sessions
Wealsohostedover30crossover/alllabworkshopsincluding5InConversations
GuestssuchasPeabody-wnningcreators/actorBILALBAIG crtcalyaccamed writer/producer/directorCLEMENTVIRGO mutpleawardwinnngCinematographers LUCMONTPELLIER&KRISTINFIELDHOUSE,STEPHANIEWILSONCHAPIN(Strategic PartnerManager YouTubeCanada),andOscar-winningproducerMLESDALE moderatedbydirectorVINCENZONATAL
Residentsalsobenefittedfromparticipatingin7industry/communitynetworking events,includingattending2024TIFFasindustrydelegatesandbeingcentralat CFCHomecoming.
Developing Original New Stories/Projects Better Positions These Storytellers For Their Next
Steps
5producedWriterProofofConcepts
5producedshortfilmsgoingontotheinternational festivalcircuit
TALENT SPOTLIGHT: Malachi Ellis
Malach ElisisaToronto-basedfimandtelevsionproducer commttedtotelngauthentc engagngstoresthatampify underrepresentedvoices Focusedonnarrativesof denttyand sef-dscovery,MaachiamstorevoutonizestorytelingforBIPOC andLGBTQIA+audences In2023 hewasseectedforboththe ReelworldScreenInsttutesProducerProgramandtheCFCs NormanJewisonFimProgramProducers’Lab
Asan ndependentproducer,Maachihascolaboratedwth emergingCanadantaentonaccamedshortfims ncuding Lve Here(dir TyerEvans) Daspora(dr TylerEvans) andFshBoy(dir ChristopherYp) RecognizedasoneofPaybackMagaznes“10to Watch” n2021,hecontnuestoshapestoriesthatempowerboth audencesandcreators
WhatwasyourintroductiontotheCFCandwhatdrewyouto applytotheprogram?
WhiestudyngatTMU Ihadtocompletevolunteerhours nvarous flmandtelevisionproductionsorcompanes TheCanadianFim Centrewasoneofthoseoptons so vounteeredasaProduction AssistantonvariousStoryAssignmentsfordfferentcohorts After graduatngandmeetingflmmakers ikeLndsayBairGoednerand CareDesmaras aumn oftheprogram Ieventualydecdedto appy,knowng twoudbethenextstepinmycareer
WhatwasyourexperiencelikeattheCFC?Arethereany standoutmomentsorlessonsthatshapedyourapproachto filmmaking?
CFCwasan ncredbeexperence Idalwaysheardhow t transformedfimmakersandeevatedtheircareers,but ddn’tfuly grasp tuntlIsat nasessonwithotherproducers earningabout fimfinancng. askedourmentorcountlessquestions andatthat moment ithitme Irealyknewwhat wasdong Thatreaizaton gavemeahugeconfidenceboostasaproducerandencouraged metoreachnewheights
HowhasyourtimeattheCFCinfluencedyourcareer trajectory?Havetherebeenanykeyconnectionsor opportunitiesthatemergedfromyourtimethere?
AftercompletngtheCFC,myfocusshftedtowardproducing ong-formcontent TogetherwthCFCaumNcAtobeliand producngpartnerLaurenSaarmak wefoundedAreaV5Pictures Ourgoal stodevelopandproduceinnovatvestorytelingthat redefinestheboundaresoftheentertanmentindustryand resonateswthaudiencesonaninternatona scae
“ You're always better together. Filmmaking is a team sport— surround yourself with people you admire and who support you.
Readthefullinterview byclickinghere.
TALENT SPOTLIGHT: Gillan
McKercher
OrginalyfromCagary GilianMcKercherwasadirectorresdentattheCanadianFlmCentrein2019, andin2024wasseectedtoPayback’s10ToWatch Mostrecently shecompetedhersecondfeature flmaswrter/drector LuckyStar whichrecevedsupportfromCFC/NetfixDeveopmentAccelerator LuckyStarwastheClosngGaafimatthe2024CalgaryInternationa FimFestva,beforepremieringat the2024Vancouver nternationa FilmFestivaland2025SantaBarbaraInternationa FimFestival
Whatfirstdrewyoutodirecting,andhowdidthatpassionevolveintopursuingtheCFC DirectorsLab?
Istudiedchemcalengneeringandworked ntheoi andgasindustryforafewyears butIhadthsdeep senseofdisconnection Icaled t“careerdysphora”Noone nmyfamiywasinthearts,andespecialyin
Cagary itfeltlkeflmmakingwasan mpossbiity Stl, n2016 Idecidedtotakethe eapandpursuefim ful tme mademyfirstmicro-budgetfeature CirceofSteel throughagrantfromtheCalgaryFim Centre Aroundthattme, asoworkedattheCalgaryInternationa FimFestva andstartedmyown company KnosumProductons Afterthat IappledtotheCFCDrectorsLabbecause neededtogrow andIneededtofndmypeope
WhatweresomeofthebiggestlessonsorrevelationsyoutookawayfromyourtimeattheCFC?
TheCFCrealychangedeverythngforme ItfeltlkethefirststeptowardsenteringthelargerCanadian flmcommunty Therewasthisideathat fyouwereseriousaboutbeingaflmmaker youdidaToronto stint Ihadbeenvolunteeringatartist-runcentres,makngthngshappeninCalgary butIknew needed thatnextlevelofsupport When gotintotheCFC Iimmediateyfeltthispressuretoprovemyself CinemaScopeMagazinewasabigdealatthetime andIwasreadingthattostudy thinkngeveryonein theprogramwouldbethishugecnephie Buteveryonewaswaymorereaxedthanthat,soitwasgreat Ireaizedthatpeopejustwantedtomakegreatworkand earnfromeachother Ibroughtthisurgency, lkeIhadtomakeeverythinghappenrghtawayand tal hadtobeperfect,andtheCFCgavemea chancetosowdownandactualythinkaboutwhat wantedtosay
HowdidparticipatingintheCFCDirectors’Labshapethewayyouapproachprojectstoday? Howdoyouthinkyourvoiceasadirectorhaschangedsince?
“ I realized that people just wanted to make great work and learn from each other. I brought this urgency, like I had to make everything happen right away and it all had to be perfect, and the CFC gave me a chance to slow down and actually think about what I wanted to say.
Readthefullinterview byclickinghere
TheCFCwasthefirsttmeIwas nacreativeenvironmentwherepeopesawmeasadirector,notjust someonemakngfims butsomeonewthavoce Icameinwithalotofinternalizedpressuretobetaken serousy But foundthatonceI etgoofthat,Iwasabetoconnectmorewithmyworkandwththe peoplearoundme
TALENT SPOTLIGHT: Anna Catley “
I entered the CFC with two main goals. First, I wanted to find a new network of filmmakers… The program absolutely delivered on that —I've built so many genuine friendships and found likeminded creative partnerships that were forged during my time in the Norman Jewison Film Program.
Agraduateofthe2022NJFPEditor’sLab AnnaCateysjourneyasaneditorisdrvenbya ifelongobsessionwthcnema.Her diversecredtsincudethefeaturefimsPayngForItandWeForgottoBreakUp whichearnedherdua CanadanScreen AwardnominationsforAchievement nEditing FeatureFimin2025. Inaddtiontohernarrativework Annahasedtedmusic videosandperformancesforartistslikeHER,AlessaCara TheTragicalyHp,andMotherMother HowdidyourparticipationintheNJFPEditors’Labhelptoadvanceyourcareer?
IenteredtheCFCwthtwomaingoals First,Iwantedtofndanewnetworkoffilmmakers,onewheremygoa ofworking n long-formnarrativeproectswasshared Theprogramabsouteydelveredonthat ’vebultsomanygenuinefriendshipsand foundlke-mndedcreativepartnershpsthatwereforgeddurngmytime ntheNormanJewisonFlmProgram Mysecondgoal wasthatIwantedto andmysecondfeatureasaneditor AftercuttngWarrenP SonodasThngs DoForMoneyin2019 I expectedmoreopportunitestocomemyway butthepandemicdefinitelystaledmomentum Inintervewsforeditorpostons onotherfeaturefilms Iwasoftentoldthatonefeaturecredtwasn’tenough feltlikeIwasinabtofacatch-22whereIneeded moreeditorcredtstorecommendmebutIwasn’tbenggiventhoseopportunites WhenIaskedforadvcefrommypeers manyfeloweditorsrecommendedtheCFCasanotherwaytogainindustryrecognton Iwastoldthatnotonlywould learna lotandmakemeaningfulconnectons butthatgongthroughtheEditorsLabattheCFCwouldaddakndofstampofapprova tomyCV–somethngthatcoudrecommendmeevenwthonyonefeaturefimcredittomyname Itworkedbecause usta monthbeforecompletingtheprogram, washiredtoedtmysecondfeaturefim,KarenKnox’sWeForgottoBreakUp
Whataresomehighlightsfromyourtimeintheprogram?
IhavesomanyhighlghtsfrommytimeattheCFC!Beyondgettng todowhatI ove nsuchasupportve inspiring andbeautifu envronment,twothingsstandoutthemost:theedtor ab workshopsandthefriendships formed Theworkshopswerea corepartofmyexperencebecausetheyexposedmetonew edtingtechnques,perspectves,andwaysofthnkingabout storyteling Oneofmyfavoriteexerciseswaswheneacheditorwas giventhesamedaiiesandaskedtocutascenewithnodrection Seenghowdifferentlyweal approachedthesamemateralwasso fascinatingandmadeforrealyin-depthconversationsabouthow wework Andthentherewerethefrendships Someofmyclosest frendsin2025arepeopeImetattheCFCin2022 The colaboratvespiritoftheprogrammadeiteasytoformdeep connections,andthosereationshipshavecontnuedtobean invaluablepartofmy ifeandcareer
Readtheful nterview byclicknghere
New Program: Cinematography Intensive
OURFIRSTEVERCINEMATOGRAPHYINTENSIVE launched on August 12 2024 thanks to financal support from the Pau Bronfman Famly Foundaton. Ths new colaboration with the Canadian Socety of Cinematographers saw us welcome 5 female Directors of Photography nto the Norman Jewison Fim Program for an mpactful 2 weeks of creatvty colaboration and business th
The DOPS worked closey wth the NJFP resdents n the reaization of 10 produced scenes written by the writers, directed by the directors and edited by the editors Their particpation along with the nvolvement of Cinematography mentors Zoe Dirse and Arthur Cooper, eevated the process and the end resuts – bringng the “cinematic” back into the storyteling and contributng to even more creative partnershp bulding Thishasbeenanimportantadditiontoourtrainingandwearedelightedthatitwill continueintothefuturethankstoamulti-yeargiftfromthePaulBronfmanFamily Foundation,inhonourofPaul’spassionforthisinitiative.
TALENT SPOTLIGHT: Iris Ng
risNgwasoneoffivewomencinematographersseectedfortheCFC’s naugura CinematographyIntensive rishasbeenacinematographerfor17yearsand sknownforworkthatfocusesonhumanrights margnaizedcommuntes andauteurperspectves Shehasextensveexperence ndocumentariesandhas ensedfimsforcontemporaryartists, ncudingshotscrptedshorts,prmetmeTV anddgtalseries HermostnotableworksincludetheacclamedflmStores WeTel(Dr SarahPo ey),NetflxsShirkers(Dir SandiTan) andEmmyaward-wnnerMakingAMurderer
Whatinitiallydrewyoutocinematography?
wasorginaly nspiredbywatchingoldHo ywoodf mswhenIwasakidwithmyMumandpaternalGrandmother rememberseeingcnematographerJamesWongHowe’snameonafewfimswherethe ightingandcameraperspectve realystoodoutagainstothers Inparticular thePOVopenngsequenceofSecondsandtheuseoffisheye ensesduringthe fimsmostdisturbingsceneshghlghtedthecameraasthetoolthatcoudelevatetheexperenceofastory.
CanyoutellusaboutyourexperienceattheinauguralCinematographyIntensiveandwhygivenyourvast experienceyouweredrawntoattend?
twasdescribedtomebyZoeDirse(President,CSC)asachanceformid-careerDOPstohonetheirskls nnarrative fimmaking whichishow wouldself-describe Iveshotarangeofproectsandfeel haveexperiencebutasosensethere s agapinhowmysklsarepercevedandhowtransposabetheyaretoothergenres Isaw tasawonderfulspacetoboth pushmyseftotryadifferentapproachtoimage-makingandalsocontributetotheuniqueproectsthatwoudundoubtedly comeoutofthsprogram tasowasagreatopportuntytomeettalentedcreativesandto mmersemyselfinthecraft The mostwonderfulyunexpectedandgratfyngpartof talthough,washowcohesiveandsupportivethecnematography cohortwaswitheachother WorkingaongsdeKaayla Paola Emma,andClaireoverthecourseofthsprogramwasthe mostvauablepartofthsexperience!
Doyouhaveanypersonalrecommendations onhowtheindustrycanmovetowards increasedgenderandracialparity?
Anequitable enshastobeimpementedsystemwide butinamannerthatisthoughtfu and carefu Ithnkweal needtobemoreeducatedas tothesystemcsourcesofinequaityinour industrysothatmeasurestogive underrepresentedpeopeopportuntesarenot metwthpersona resentmentorfrustraton Tickingboxesandsuppantingroes nfrontor behndthe ens nordertoappeartohave dversityisunhepfu andhasnegatvesideeffects ontheground,as ’msurewevealwtnessed frst-hand AndIbeievethesemeanngfu shifts needtobesupportedattheexecutvelevestobe effectve.Ontheindvidua level weneedtohave thecompasson,patence andmenta energyto receivetheeducationthatwilenrchour understandingofwhytheseshiftsarenecessary.
Whatadvicewouldyougivetoaspiring cinematographers?
Mygenera advcewoudbe Avoidhavngafxed notonofyourpath Dont et tdiscourageor imt youfromdscoveringwaysofworkingthatdraw onyourspecfcstrengthsasyoudeveopyour craft Andtrytotranscendthatherarchyof genresandtheways nwhichwetypcalythink cnematographycanbefufling
Letsal findourownwaystobeusefulthrough ourworktothewordaroundusandtoour communitybywayofourbackgrounds our personalexperences andourpersona strengths
“
I
saw it as a wonderful space to both push myself to try a different approach to imagemaking and also contribute to the unique projects that would undoubtedly come out of this program. It also was a great opportunity to meet talented creatives and to immerse myself in the craft.
Readthefu nterview bycicknghere
New Program: Hair and Makeup Intensive
rd
OURFIRSTEVERHAIR&MAKEUPINTENSIVE launched September 23 2024 for 2 months of interacton with NJFP resident teams on our short films and Writer Proof of Concept productions. Thanks to support from NABET, Warner Bros Discovery Access Canada CMPA and our program partner CMU Colege of Makeup Art and Design, we wecomed 5 BIPOC hair & makeup artists into the CFC program family.
Their talent their commtment and their engagement in these productons aso elevated the experience and the onscreen work It ensured that our dverse cast were wel taken care of in the HMU char while offering each HMUA a signficant number of credits and hours towards union accreditation.
ThisintensivealsohelpedusformalizethelearningandtrainingourNJFPproductionsofferBTL talentandtechnicians,recognizingthattheybenefitmorethanjustthefilmresidentsandcontribute tocapacitybuildingwithinourproductioncommunity.
CBC Actors Conservatory
We launched the recruitment campaign and call for applications for the 2024/25 Conservatory in February and received a total of 315 applications from actors across Canada.
CBC Actors Conservatory
ShowcasePremiere
We developed, shot, edited, and premiered eight Close Up showcase pieces at the CBC Actors Conservatory Industry Showcase at Hot Docs Cinema, where 500+ guests celebrated emerging talent
IndustryReach
A digital brochure, distributed to 1,000+ industry professionals, amplified exposure The 2024/25 Close Ups launched on CFC’s YouTube and were submitted to festivals, garnering attention and acclaim
ProgramImpact
The program delivered 32 on-camera opportunities, 30 workshops, 41 coaching sessions, 9 business intensives, and 7 networking events, plus 22 cross-program collaborations.
Accessibility&Selection
All eight actors received full scholarships and bursaries From 358 applicants, 27 were shortlisted, and the next cohort is set to continue building momentum
Alumni Highlight Reel
1. MilcaniaDiaz-Rojas starring in the acclaimed feature from R.T.
2. AshtonJames starring in the feature BOXCUTTER and appearing as the lead in the feature Youngblood alongside CFC Actor Alum Emidio Lopes. Ashton was also in the Netflix Top 10 mini series Madness.
3. VeronikaSlowikowska who took home a CSA for BEST LEAD PERFORMER, CHILDREN'S OR YOUTH for her role on DAVEY & JONESIE'S LOCKER and recently joined the season 51 cast of SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE.
4. SupinderWraich accepted the award for best lead performer in a drama series at the Canadian Screen Awards for her role as Sabrina on CBC’s series ALLEGIANCE.
5. MichelleMcLeod can be seen in the Hulu comedy series How to Die Alone playing opposite Natasha Rothwell.
6. GraceGlowicki (writer, director & lead) premiered her feature film DEAD LOVER at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and then went on to play at SXSW, where she received the Neon Auteur. It appeared in the Midnight Madness section at TIFF 2025.
Thorne 40 ACRES
TALENT SPOTLIGHT: Ashton James
AshtonJamesisagraduateofthe2019CFCActorsConservatory A2023CanadianScreenAwardnomneeforhswork nAmanda Parrs’RevengeoftheBackBestFriend(CBCGem),Ashtonhas sinceappearedinBeyondBlackBeauty(Amazon/Famiy)and CartonCuse’sFiveDaysatMemora (AppeTV+) Otherselect creditsincudeseasontwoofLaw&OrderToronto:Crimina Intent (Ctytv)andtheNetflixmini-seriesTheMadness
Recenty,Ashtonstarredinthe ndefeatureBoxcutter,drectedby CFCaumRezaDahya whichpremieredatSXSW2025andthe Atlantc nternatonalFlmFestival Next hetakesonthetituarrolein Youngbood areimaginingofthe1980scassic,whchpremeredat TFF2025
Howdidyoubeginactingandwhendidyouknowthiswasthepathforyou?
MygrandmotherwasanactorinSaintLuca dongtheatre Asachld,Idstand backstage,watchingherandothersplaycharactersthatwoudmaketheaudience competely ock n Theywoudn’tbeworredaboutanythingoutsideofthatmoment I imagine,subconscousy,somethinginmewantedtochasethatsamespark tostep intoastoryandfeel tmovepeopeforamomentortwo AsforwhenIbegan Ifee ike Istl haventstarted lol I’mconstantyinsearchofthat SomedaysitfeeslikeIcanhod myownwthactors respect andotherdays feelcompetelydsorientedbytheart form But ’vefoundthattensonkeepsmecurous aboutmyself andaboutthework
Werethereanychallengesorbreakthroughmomentsduringyourtimeinthe CFCActorsConservatorythatcontributedtoyourgrowthasanartist?
TheprogramwaschalenginginthesensethatIwantedtoextracteverythngfromit. feltthsconstantinterna pressuretoalwaysbeon Whathelpedmesettle though weremyfelowactors Theyeach ivedsofuly ntheirownauthenticspacesand watchingthattaughtmea ot
BeforetheConservatory Iwasawayssearchngoutsidemyself lookingtomentors books,coaches, ntervews tryingtounderstandactingthroughsomeoneeseslens cametorealizethatmycreatvitywasmyown andwhateverapproach personaly hadtotheworkwasacting GenunelybrngngmysefandthethingsIhadtooffer Thatrealzatonwasfreeing Itsetmeonthepathofno ongerneedingvaidationfrom theoutside Myconnectiontoartwasminetocam andforthefirsttmeIfetIhad somethingtooffer whether tsucceededorfaled, twasentirelymyown
Whatadvicedoyouhaveforaspiringactorslookingtobreakintotheindustry?
I’vesharedthsoften,but tsagroundingremnderformyselfthatteachersand mentorshaveofferedtome,so offer tagan “Youareenough,butyoucanonybe enoughifyourebraveenoughtobeyou”
Before the Conservatory, I was always searching outside myself—looking to mentors, books, coaches, interviews—trying to understand acting through someone else's lens. I came to realize that my creativity was my own, and whatever approach I personally had to the work was acting.
Readthefu interview bycicknghere
CFC RESIDENTS & PARTICIPANTS
BY TH NUMB
2200+ alumni
80% of all CFC alumni continue to work in the industry More than
200+ alumni enterprises including 115+ women owned digital tartups an Screen Award ions for CFC alumni, with ross categories!
Bayview Avenue to the World
our iconic campus in north Toronto, the CFC is a space for dian creators, with alumni from coast to coast to coast Our umni also reside globally, making our impact felt worldwide!
85% of all CFC alumni continue to reside and do business in Ontario
60+ industry partners, including unions and guilds, to support programs/workshops
150-200 established industry professionals who lead our training sessions
800+
CFC Events
2024 CFC GALA: Decades
The 2024 CFC Gala: Decades in May marked our first major event following the passing of our founder, Norman Jewison The annual fundraising event celebrated Norman’s work and legacy, with heartfelt tribute videos from those who have worked with him over the years and a touching speech from his granddaughter, A exandra
CFC Homecoming 2024
In September, CFC Homecoming welcomed alumni, supporters, and industry guests to campus for our annua celebration of the CFC’s alumni and their incredible impact on Canadian film & TV. The afternoon featured performances by DJ Ron Jon acclaimed hoop dancer Lisa Odjig, musician Gabrie a Rodgers, and the Pau Langlois Band.
CFC Conversations: Black Excellence
Two insightfu events in our CFC Conversations: Black Excel ence series took place, featuring conversations with costume designer Antoinette Messam in August and director (and CFC a um) Karen Chapman in December moderated by CFC Executive Director maxine bai ey. This free public series, presented by TD Bank Group, is devoted to perspectives told by Black creatives in the screen-based industry and a p atform for industry leaders to speak openly about their experiences and inspire positive change for future artists.
2024/2025 CFC Partners
Thank you to our partners for your commitment to the CFC We are grateful for your support of the next generation of Canadian storytellers
GOVERNMENT PARTNERS
LEAD SUPPORTERS
PROGRAM PARTNERS
2024 CFC GALA: DECADES
Pre-Reception Hosts Shaftesbury SpinVFX
CFC HOMECOMING PARTNERS
Presenting Partner Netflix
Platinum Partners Castlepoint Numa Cineplex The Paul Bronfman Family Foundation
Our many 2024 CFC Gala: Decades table and ticket purchasers
Supporting Partners IATSE 873 Lionsgate Canada Shaftesbury
Industry Partners A&E Networks APTN
Bullfrog Power Chubb Insurance Company of Canada
Clearly Canadian KIC Group
Sustainable Production Forum Toronto Film School
2024/2025 CFC Production and Post-Production Partners
These industry partners provide CFC productions with essential in-kind rentals and services. Our residents’ short films, CloseUps and Writers’ In Development pieces wouldn’t be possible without their generous support!
NEW BOARD MEMBERS
The Canadian Film Centre (CFC) announced the appo ntment of three d stinguished new members to its Board of Directors: Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin who serves as the c ty council or for Don Va ley West Magali Simard Cinespace Studios’ D rector of Industry & Commun ty Relations and Owen McCorquodale, Head of Communications for Pr me Video n Canada. These esteemed nd vidua s bring a wealth of experience to the Board to further drive the CFCs mission and to enhance the cultura landscape of the Canad an film and media ndustries
2024/2025 Board of Directors
Kate A exander Daniels*
Neishaw A i (Chair)
Paul Bronfman†
Tassie Cameron
Stéphane Card n
Council or She ley Carro l* (ex offic o)*
Dr Shir ey Cheechoo*
Council or Rache Chernos Lin (ex officio)
Gu llermo del Toro
Steven DeNure*
Duane Green
Harold Gronenthal (Treasurer)
Cheryl Hudson (Vice Chair)*
Christ na Jennings* Raja Khanna Anne Loi
Owen McCorquoda e
d W Midd eton*
John Morayniss
Mark Sakamoto*
Maga i Simard
Hilary Smith* Clement Virgo Dav d Z tzerman*
CFC Founder's Council
David Cronenberg
Steven DeNure (Chair) Blake Go dring
S aight
Circle of Supporters
Windf elds
Cretney W l ams Investments Inc
Kate Alexander-Daniels and Dav d
Dan e s
Rob n and Robert Og v e*
Platinum Ne shaw A
E J Alon
max ne ba ey
Steven and A ison DeNure
B ake and Be nda Goldring***
Gold
Kathryn Ems e*
Fiera Cap tal*
Harold Gronenthal
Chery Hudson and M chae Say*
Munroe Fami y*
Dr Betty Rozendaa and Sonny
Go dste n***
Silver
Stéphane Card n
Kevin Fisher Gard ner Roberts
LLP*
Robert and Jul a Foster*
Duane and Ange a Green
Christ na Jenn ngs**
David Kines and Teresa Walsh*
Anne Loi
K mber y Manky and Rhys Lloyd
Nancy and John McFadyen***
Abby and Perry M nuk***
Franca M rag ia
John Morayniss
Br an Stockton
David Z tzerman
Anonymous
The Norman and Margaret Jew son
Char tab e Foundat on***
Cec and Robert Rab nov tch*
MaryAnne Runnal s***
Andra Takacs***
Richard Wernham and Jul a West**
Bronze
W l am C arke***
Dr and Mrs Paul and Joyce
Chapn ck***
Ange a Char esworth
Heather Conway**
Suzette Couture*
Carey D amond & T na Urman Fam ly
Fund at the Jewish Foundation of
Greater Toronto
R chard and Pame a Ear e
Deborah Fal ows**
Hue and Jonathon Foo*
Doreen Gryfe***
Jacquel ne Mackey*
Tara Parker
John R ley
Harvey Rogers***
Marv n and Joan Waxman*** *over 5 years of support **over 10 years of support ***over 20 years of support
2024/2025 CFC STAFF
Arezou Abbass Manager Human Resources
Ash ey Abbott Execut ve Lead F nance
Jonah Al ngham Ass stant Fac l ties
Jane Ange Genera Counse
Zahrah Asad Coord nator Communicat ons & Soc a
Med a
G l an Ashton Manager of Executive Off ce Board
Re ations & Spec a Projects
max ne ba ley Executive D rector
Car y Beath Director Deve opment
Sarah Brooks D rector Programs Adm n strat on & Faci t es
Chelsea Crothers Manager Events
Kathryn Ems ie Execut ve Lead, Programs
V ncent Fan Coord nator Events & Renta s
Jon Fernandes Senior Manager nformation Techno ogy
Rafae Lu z Garcia da Penha Production Manager
Hannah He dr ch HR/Office Coordinator
Chr st an Jacobsen Post-Product on & Techn ca
Manager
Rache La Account ng Specia st
Lee Marshal Supervising Producer
Jacque ne Mackey Executive Lead F nance (retired)
Haydee Moo-Choy Director F nance
Dean Or ade Manager Market ng
Rakhee Sapra Senior Manager Market ng & Communications
Emily Scheer Sen or Manager Aumn Advancement
Rick Sherman Sen or Deveopment Officer Government
Relations / Corporate Commun cat ons
sabella Shi Coord nator, Programs
Shannon Stone Sen or Development Off cer Ph lanthropy
Emily Thorne Assistant Product on
Eileen Wang Account ng Spec a st
L tian Wang Post Product on & Technica Coordinator
Jon Wooder Coord nator, Programs
Wayne Stewart Coord nator, Fac it es
*Contract staff, or Staff who departed prior to March 31 2025
Happy Retirement!
Bon Voyage!
Deborah Fa ows has ret red from the CFC after fifteen years as Execut ve Lead for People & Culture a so respons b e for T and Operat ons Her accomp shments include strateg c HR init at ves focused on equ ty eff c ency and employee management She ed DE efforts and introduced f ex b e work pol c es to support work- ife balance and attract top ta ent Deborah modern zed HR operat ons by mp ement ng an HRIS system to manage data and automate performance management Deborah promoted a respectfu workp ace through targeted tra n ng and po icy development mp emented equ tab e compensation pract ces de vered youth employment opportunit es through the Canada Summer Jobs Program and mproved vendor management and cross-departmenta technology integration in partnersh p with IT
Thank you for your service Deborah!
In Memoriam: Paul Bronfman
It is with deep sorrow that the Canadian Film Centre (CFC) acknowledges the passing of Paul Bronfman, a valued member of the community and a long-time supporter of Canadian cinema and television As the chairman and CEO of Comweb Corp and William F White International, and a key figure in the Canadian film industry, Paul’s impact was immeasurable. His vision, dedication, and leadership helped shape the landscape of film production, supporting talent and fostering growth in the Canadian creative sector
Paul Bronfman initially joined the CFC Board in 1990 serving till 1996, rejoining in 2017 Paul was an invaluable member of the board, consistently engaged in supporting the CFC’s mission
Paul’s legacy extends beyond his remarkable business accomplishments. He was a passionate advocate for the development of Canadian filmmakers and artists and strived to ensure that the industry thrived here and abroad His influence will continue to resonate in the work of countless individuals he mentored and the many initiatives he supported
Through the Paul Bronfman Family Foundation he has been a long-time supporter of the Norman Jewison Film Program, most recently serving as the lead funder and champion for the CFC’s groundbreaking Cinematography Intensive for female-identifying DOPs
We are deeply saddened to say goodbye to members of the CFC family:
PaulBronfman(1957-2025)
Member of the Board of Directors (1990-1996 and 2017-2024), longtime supporter of the Norman Jewison Film Program and supporter of the new Cinematography Intensive through the Paul Bronfman Family Foundation, CFC champion.
MichaelMelski(1969-2025)
Graduate of the CFC Film Program (Writers Lab, 1996) and Professional Screenwriting Program Bootcamp (1997), directed and co-wrote PERFUME WAR (Best Documentary, AFF 2016, and Best Humanitarian Film, Sedona IFF 2017).
JayeRobinson(1962-2024)
Ex officio Member of the Board of Directors (20152022), City of Toronto Councillor for Don Valley West (2018-2024), as a member of staff at the city in 1988 she helped secure the use of Windfields Estate for the CFC.