06/16/2026
VIMFF's Indigenous Community Film & Mentorship Tour 🎬
Something we've been quietly working on behind the scenes is now officially underway!
Our team has been on the road; screening films, supporting emerging filmmakers, and finding ways to make sure Indigenous storytellers have the resources and opportunities to tell their own stories. We are genuinely honoured to be doing this work and to be welcomed into these communities the way we have been.
Our first stop was Fort Simpson (Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́), Dehcho, Denendeh, where we joined the 7th Annual Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ Film Festival in partnership with Festival Director and Dehcho Dene filmmaker Jonathan Antoine. VIMFF's Director of Programming Ivan Hughes reflected: "The ceremonies began with a performance by the Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation Drummers. Their songs created a welcoming atmosphere rooted in local culture and tradition and set the tone for a festival dedicated to storytelling, community, and cultural connection." From the moment we arrived, it was clear this weekend was going to be something special.
We shared films, sat with Elders, connected with local filmmakers and community members, and had conversations we genuinely weren't expecting. One moment that hasn't left Ivan (in his own words): "Chief Antoine noted that too often Indigenous people are spoken about rather than listened to. And that every story contributes to the history of a people. These reflections underscored the importance of Indigenous-led storytelling, and the role film can play in preserving culture, language, memory, and identity."
We also met emerging filmmakers who were moved to learn that so many of the films we screen are made by the adventurers themselves, no massive production budget, just people with a story and the drive to tell it. Watching that click for someone is one of the best parts of what we get to do here at VIMFF.
We don't take lightly the privilege of being welcomed into these spaces. Collaborating with and uplifting Indigenous communities is something that means a great deal to everyone at VIMFF, and Fort Simpson reminded us of that in the most meaningful way.
NEXT UP: Inukjuak, Nunavik, Northern Quebec. Stay with us here on our social channels as we continue to share more from this inspiring tour!
