Discover 35 New Indigenous-Led Films!
Posted on October 22, 2024
This year, the TELUS STORYHIVE Empowered Filmmaker program journeyed to four communities—Grande Prairie, Red Deer, Medicine Hat and Cranbrook. Over the course of a month, new and emerging Indigenous filmmakers learned how to make a short film from concept to release. Through this program, 35 new films were created, and they're premiering today on TELUS Optik TV channel 9, Stream+ and STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel!
TELUS STORYHIVE Empowered Filmmaker is an all inclusive Indigenous-focused film program that offers training, equipment and mentorship to Indigenous communities across B.C. and Alberta. Since 2017, Empowered Filmmaker has trained over 545 filmmakers to produce 180 films by providing training, equipment and support.
Led by professional filmmaker Farhan Umedaly of VoVo Productions, participants take part in a five-day workshop, gaining the skills and confidence to become effective media content creators, even with no prior filmmaking experience. At the end of each program is a community film festival complete with awards, camera giveaways and more!
Community Partners
Excited to explore the stories from these talented new filmmakers? Watch the trailer here!
Emerging Talent Award Spotlight
Sammie Coates and Blaine Burgoyne created a powerful 10-minute film titled No Trees Without Roots. At the screening, STORYHIVE was proud to recognize both participants with the inaugural TELUS STORYHIVE Emerging Talent Award. Congratulations, Sammie and Blaine!
"Their film used powerful imagery and symbolism in an effort to show the healing journey Sammie is undertaking. It is difficult opening old wounds in an effort to help lift others up, and I am thankful that participants are stepping out of their comfort zone in this program, which for many participants is a part of their healing journey."
– Farhan Umedaly, TELUS STORYHIVE Empowered Filmmaker Program Lead
No Trees Without Roots | Cranbrook, B.C. (ʔaq'am & Ktunaxa Nation) | Project Leads: Sammie Coates and Blaine Burgoyne
A film that takes us on a reflective healing journey from dark times to a positive future.
Stay tuned for next year’s program at empoweredfilmmaker.com!