iffa summer update 2025

As we step into summer, the Indigenous Futures Film Academy (IFFA) is reflecting on an exciting season of growth, storytelling, and new beginnings.

Earlier this year, we were proud to receive funding from the Canada Council for the Arts, which has empowered us to expand our programming across multiple disciplines. This support has allowed us to continue developing the IFFA Youth Film Program, launch online acting and screenwriting workshops, and introduce new on-set accelerator experiences for emerging Indigenous talent. These initiatives are all part of our mission to strengthen Indigenous creative pathways through mentorship, skill-building, and cultural connection.

One of the highlights this spring was our first Youth Film Camp with the Grade 12 students at Oskayak High School in Saskatoon. Over four immersive days, students worked alongside Indigenous mentors to produce a short documentary focused on mental health and intergenerational healing. The resulting film is a powerful reflection of the stories, struggles, and resilience that shape the lives of Indigenous youth today—and a testament to the strength of their voices.

Our CEO also had the opportunity to attend ImagineNATIVE 2025, where IFFA connected with industry leaders, fellow Indigenous creators, and global allies. It was an incredible networking experience that reinforced the importance of community-driven media and further positioned IFFA as a home for Indigenous innovation in film and storytelling.

We’re just getting started.

Stay tuned for more programming announcements, youth film premieres, and ways to get involved in the months ahead.