IFFSA TALENT FUND
South Asians have been a part of the Canadian story for over 120 years, but are vastly under represented in cinematic media. With 2 million+ South Asians living in Canada, it is time they have a platform to help bring forward their stories more accurately and fairly, and share their compelling experiences with Canadians. IFFSA has launched IFFSA Talent Fund to support the development, promotion and celebration of South Asian Canadian talent and cinematic arts with a long-term strategy of building South Asian Canadian narrative through cinema.
BRIGHT LIGHTS IS THE PIONEER PROGRAM UNDER THIS INITIATIVE
IFFSA TORONTO
IFFSA Toronto is the largest South Asian film festival in North America, and a pioneer institute advancing the development, promotion and celebration of South Asian cinematic arts in Canada. In its 12th year now, IFFSA Toronto has become the voice of South Asian cinema in Canada, and is making an immense cultural, social and economic impact through its various year round activities.
Festival showcases a diverse, language independent, selection of the best films from around the world, on themes of South Asian cultures and identities. In addition, the festival also features grand gala celebrations, red carpet showcases, musical performances, audience interactions, forums, panel discussions, workshops, masterclasses, and various networking opportunities with government representatives, business leaders, local organizations that support film development, artists, producers, directors, members of the media and more.
Both celebrated and emerging creatives, film stars and film professionals attend the festival. The highly festive and interactive atmosphere of the festival brings artists and audiences together in a very engaging way. The festival programming creates a balance of tone and form, and aims to create an entertaining buzz while simultaneously starting a conversation with the audience.
THE LARGEST SOUTH ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL IN NORTH AMERICA
IFFSA MISSION
IFFSA Toronto is devoted to the development, promotion and celebration of South Asian cinematic arts and talent. IFFSA aims to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the South Asian experience by offering unique insights and new perspectives through the medium of film. IFFSA is dedicated to presenting cinema that is intriguing and soulful, and committed to act as a catalyst for creation that offers transformational experience. It strives to recognize new and original voices throughout Canada and channel the excitement of cinema into our local communities. Festival has showcased hundreds of award-winning films while playing host to internationally acclaimed filmmakers, industry professionals, and press from around the globe. The vision and mission of IFFSA Toronto is guided by an advisory board composed of respected political, business, arts, community and media leaders, and globally celebrated filmmakers.