Program aims to develop Indigenous filmmakers from Northern Ontario

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Cultural Industries Ontario North (CION), in partnership with the Canada Media Fund, has announced applications are open for Cinema Ascent, designed to empower mid-career First Nations, Inuit and Métis filmmakers from Canada.

The program has a focus on producers, directors, and writers from Northern Ontario. Learn more at tinyurl.com/3xebcpw9. The application deadline is Dec. 6.

Eligible applicants are defined as those who are at least 18 years of age; identify as First Nation, Inuit or Métis and residing in Canada; have worked as a credited writer, director or producer on at least two short films or one feature-length film or television series; and have an original, feature-length film or television series in early stages of development.

As part of Cinema Ascent’s inaugural cohort, up to eight mentees will access ongoing, virtual mentorship sessions for 12 months. Mentors will be established Canadian film and television talent and executives.

Leading the first session will be Paula Devonshire, whose illustrious career in the domestic film and television production industry includes producing globally recognized feature films in Northern Ontario, including Remember (2015), Indian Horse (2017), Stellar (2022) and Gail Maurice’s upcoming Blood Lines.

“With this new program, we hope to promote knowledge-sharing avenues, business potential and investment readiness for participants and the broader, regional production industry,” Patrick O’Hearn, associate executive director of CION, said in a release.

“This is an opportunity to enhance northern Ontario’s capacity to foster creativity and invest in a future where more consistent screen-based employment and business development opportunities are available to Indigenous filmmakers,” he said.

“Supporting regional talent continues to be a priority for CION, and we are grateful for the support of the Canada Media Fund in making Cinema Ascent a reality.”

Mentees of Cinema Ascent can also access funding support to attend key industry marketplaces in Ontario, including the Canadian Media Producers Association’s Prime Time and the Toronto International Film Festival, alongside mentors and regional industry stakeholders.

https://www.cochranetimespost.ca/entert ... rn-ontario