The OYA Black Arts Coalition (OBAC) is making significant strides in the Canadian film and television industry with its Emerging Filmmakers Producer Incubator Program, now in its seventh edition. This year, the program emphasizes the vital role of producers—key players in bringing creative visions to life—while continuing to nurture the next generation of Black filmmakers.
Overview of the Program
The program focuses on empowering aspiring producers through a blend of mentoring, strategic networking, and hands-on training. Participants receive essential tools to excel in digital media, film, and television.
A key aspect of the program is its commitment to professional development through real-world experience. Participants are paired with industry experts who guide them through production challenges, from securing funding to navigating post-production workflows. Additionally, strategic networking opportunities allow emerging filmmakers to connect with established professionals, fostering future collaborations and career advancement. This combination of creative and business training equips participants with both artistic vision and a comprehensive understanding of the production process, setting them up for long-term success in the industry.
The New Cohort
The 2024 edition of OBAC’s Emerging Filmmakers Producer Incubator Program features a diverse group of 10 talented Black creatives, each contributing unique skills and experiences. This cohort reflects a range of backgrounds, including acting, directing, production management, writing, and more, showcasing the vast potential within Canada’s Black filmmaking community.
Leading this dynamic group are actor-producer Adekunle Samuel Sijuade, known for his work in Stepfather, and Ajifa Atuluku, a producer celebrated for Beyond the Veil. Both have demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance artistic vision with production demands.
Joining them are Alicia S. Blake, an emerging filmmaker passionate about storytelling; Anthony Francis, a writer-filmmaker building his reputation in the industry; and author-producer Atinuke Victoria Adepoju, who seamlessly blends literary talent with production expertise.
The cohort also includes Haui, a director-producer recognized for C’est Moi, which showcases his unique perspective and directorial style. Oyeyinka Oyelowo, a lawyer and founder of All-In Media, brings invaluable legal and business knowledge to the program. Shane Latouche adds his expertise as a production manager on projects like The 2024 JUNO Awards, while Torrin Blades contributes his experience from The North Star: Finding Black Mecca. Finally, producer Toyin Olaniya rounds out this impressive lineup with her work on Stay Alone, ready to make her mark in the Canadian filmmaking scene.
Statements from OBAC Leadership
OBAC co-founder Alison Duke has been instrumental in the success of the Emerging Filmmakers Producer Incubator Program. In discussing this year’s edition, she emphasized its long-term impact on the Canadian film industry: “Through our incubator programs, we’re nurturing young artists who will represent the future of Canadian filmmaking with unique perspectives and skills.”
Duke’s statement underscores the importance of empowering emerging Black voices not just as filmmakers but also as producers who can shape the industry from behind the scenes. By focusing on these skills, OBAC aims to ensure that the stories of Black Canadians are told authentically and with creative control held by those who live those experiences.
Funding and Support
The success of OBAC’s Emerging Filmmakers Producer Incubator Program is made possible through key financial supporters and partnerships. A significant $3 million contribution from the federal government’s Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) Ecosystem Fund is delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
In addition to federal support, contributions from the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism under the Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) help create opportunities for Black youth across various sectors, including arts and culture—aligning perfectly with OBAC’s mission to uplift Black talent in entertainment.
Support from organizations like Corus Entertainment and xoTO further enhances the program’s success by providing participants access to industry-leading resources and networking opportunities.
Wrapping Up
As OBAC’s Emerging Filmmakers Producer Incubator Program enters its seventh edition, it continues to break new ground in supporting Black filmmakers in Canada. With its producer-focused approach, the program equips participants not only with creative skills but also with the essential business acumen needed to thrive in the film industry.
The 2024 cohort is poised to contribute fresh perspectives and authentic Black stories to Canada’s entertainment landscape. While their journey is just beginning, OBAC’s commitment to elevating Black creatives remains stronger than ever. The stories these filmmakers will bring to life are set to inspire, entertain, and reshape Canadian cinema’s narrative.