Do you know why I named our collective Black Women Film!, with an exclamation mark? It’s written that way because it’s a call to action, it’s a statement and reminder to everyone that yes we are here, we are numerous, we are thriving and we are making waves in this industry with our creativity, drive and talent.

The support you have shown us through our THRIVE campaign has been immense. My heart bursts with gratitude every time a donation comes in or someone helps spread the word because you are making such a clear impact on helping us achieve a lasting support network for Black women identified content creators across the country.

Because of you, we have already reached 80% of our THRIVE! Campaign goal! We’ve doubled our social media engagement and developed new partnerships to support our programs across the country this year. Whether you’re an industry ally, seasoned filmmaker, emerging creator or community supporter, I want to welcome you to our blossoming and thriving community.

What I have discovered over the last four years of running Black Women Film! Canada is that we are a catalyst. Our programming initiatives have helped bring together a network of both senior and rising star talent who have gone on to collaborate with one another, work directly with the industry leaders and broadcasters we have provided access to or they have gone on to create new works of their own, with confidence and the funding to show for it. After folks go through our programs, they stay in the fold. They continue to support each other in an industry that is still trying to figure out how to include us.

I’m so grateful for the growth we’ve seen and I know that there is so much more ahead of us. This really excites me and the team as we build more bridges and rise new tides with our upcoming leadership programs, partnered mentorship opportunities and Black Girls Film Camp which kicks off this summer. We also look forward to developing and expanding the reach of our workshops and programs, and spending more time engaging online with our community to raise the profile of Black women filmmakers and media artists in Canada.

When we state #BLACKWOMENTHRIVE for this campaign – it is yet another call to action, a reminder and celebration of who are and what you are helping us do when you offer support.

As the first half of 2020 has been filled with lessons, I see already that the second half is brimming with opportunity!

Standing with you in care and power,

Ella Cooper