IFFA kinosêw lab
Empowering the Next
Generation of Indigenous CREATIVES.
The IFFA kinosêw Lab: Virtual Production Program is an immersive, hands-on experience designed to train Indigenous artists in filmmaking and virtual production techniques.
Hosted in Treaty One Territory at StudioLab xR, Manitoba’s flagship XR training facility, this program focuses on Indigenous leadership and virtual filmmaking. It offers a culturally safe, technically supported space for participants to explore their craft, sharpen their vision, and shape the future of screen-based storytelling in Canada.
This program is built around a progressive learning arc that leads into a 5-day immersive production sprint. Participants begin with foundational Unreal Engine training and virtual production theory through a mix of hands-on workshops and virtual sessions. They advance through previsualization, technical staging, and role-based mentorship before entering the production week.
Each group completes a full creative cycle, including story development, Unreal scene building, virtual camera rehearsals, and mocap blocking, culminating in a professionally supported 2-day shoot on an LED stage. The structure ensures participants are creatively and technically prepared to step into key production roles with confidence.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
THE GOAL & MISSION
This initiative is designed to build a pathway into Canada’s screen industries by equipping Indigenous creators with the foundational and future-ready skills needed to thrive across:
Television & Film Production
On-set experience in camera, lighting, and directing
Story development through Indigenous-led mentorship
Hands-on training in previsualization, blocking, and scene execution
Narrative & Interactive Media
Introduction to Unreal Engine for cinematic storytelling
Basics of real-time worldbuilding and interactive scene design
Understanding emerging pipelines for virtual production and immersive narratives
Professional Readiness
Portfolio development: short film scenes, previs reels, and documentation
Career mentorship and industry exposure
Access to a network of Indigenous creatives and technical leads across Canada
