The Fabienne Colas Foundation’s Youth and Diversity Program in collaboration with the Toronto Black Film Festival calls for applications for its 2020 Being Black in Canada program, Being Black in Toronto.

Filmmakers will address the issue of the social integration of people from black communities in Toronto through film. Moreover, the program addresses emerging creators between 18 and 30, who are from black communities and have a passion for cinema. Potential candidates have a dream to work in the audiovisual field but have not yet had the opportunity, due to social, economic and/or cultural reasons.

Benefits 

This program offers professional mentorship in the audiovisual production of a short film with the theme of “Being Black in Toronto.” 5 to 10 young, promising filmmakers will be guided through the many steps in audiovisual production (screenwriting, directing, editing, post-production, etc.), and will create a documentary short (maximum 10 minutes). This process will be carried out under the professional tutelage of an industry professional with professional equipment.

Eligibility 

In order to be eligible for this Being Black in Canada Program, candidates must

• Be between 18 and 30 (included) on the date of application.
• Be from a black community.
• Demonstrate an interest in the audiovisual field and documentary filmmaking as well as demonstrate motivation for the program.
• Have concrete career-oriented plans in the audiovisual field.
• Be available for activities related to the program, particularly from April & August 2020 for all training, creation, editing, follow-up, discussions, etc; and between September 2020 & March 2021 for screenings, festivals, distribution, promotion, etc.
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and live in the Greater Toronto Area.
• Submit a video or film you made in a non-professional setting (short film, clip, video, etc.). Similarly, submit a concrete documentary project that fits the program theme (250 words).

Timeline 

• World Premiere at the Montreal International Black Film Festival – September 30 to October 4, 2020.
• Ontario Premiere at the Toronto Black Film Festival – February 10 to 15, 2021.
• Atlantic Premiere at the Halifax Black Film Festival – February 26 to 28, 2021.
• Potential screenings to other festivals after March 2021 (tbd).