TORONTO – The Banff World Media Festival (BANFF), the Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) and the Canada Media Fund (CMF) announced today the first in-person Indigenous Screen Summit will be held at this year’s festival, which is running from June 12 to 15.
The idea behind the summit is to “shine a light on the diverse talent and exciting screen content being created by Indigenous storytellers in Canada,” a press release explains.
“It will facilitate conversation and empower the goals of Indigenous entertainment industry professionals from Canada and around the world, seeking to connect partners, explore trends, create opportunities, and amplify Indigenous screen storytelling on a global stage.”
The summit was launched last year, however, due to the pandemic it was held virtually.
“The first in person Indigenous Screen Summit provides a unique opportunity for Indigenous media professionals to meet face to face with colleagues within their circles of film and television,” said Nicole Robertson, content producer with the Indigenous Screen Summit for BANFF, in the press release.
“Our Indigenous Worldview is about relationships with the world around us. It’s important to develop these partnerships at BANFF, so the future generations can see themselves reflected in upcoming movies, television series and all media endeavours.”
This year, the Indigenous Screen Summit will feature a half-day pitch forum financing event on Sunday, June 12 at the Fairmont Banff Springs in Alberta, which is complementary for all festival pass holders to attend. (For the schedule for the forum, please click here.)
During the pitch forum, “Indigenous producers and creators will have the opportunity to present their in-development scripted features, drama series and comedy projects to panels of Canadian and international buyers as well as an industry audience,” the release says.
Programming for the Indigenous Screen Summit will extend throughout the festival and includes “dedicated sessions highlighting exciting and innovative content from Indigenous producers and creators on BANFF’s mainstage.”
“The continued rise and momentum of Indigenous content production is gaining increased attention from audiences and industry in Canada and around the world. This is an exciting space for Indigenous storytellers and professionals to share new ideas and connect with Banff World Media Festival participants,” said Kerry Swanson, ISO co-executive director.
“The CMF is delighted to support this first in-person Indigenous Screen Summit, providing an opportunity for outstanding Indigenous creators to take their stories and ideas to the next level,” said Valerie Creighton, president and CEO, CMF.
“The CMF made a strong commitment to remove barriers in the industry and support talented Indigenous creators, helping them share their stories with audiences around the world. This initiative will help do exactly that.”
