RESO – What to Expect in 2025
As the Canadian film industry continues to evolve, the need for greater equity and representation has never been more apparent. At the forefront of this transformation stands RESO, the Racial Equity Screen Office, based in Vancouver. Since its inception, RESO has championed racialized Canadian filmmakers, amplifying diverse stories told through the lens of diasporic and migrant experiences.
With a commitment to mentorship, training, funding, and advocacy, RESO has created pathways for creatives to thrive in an industry historically marked by systemic inequities. But their mission extends far beyond support—it’s about building a sustainable ecosystem that enables these voices to reach audiences both at home and globally.
Advancing Equity in 2025
At the core of RESO’s mission is the pursuit of equity—ensuring racialized filmmakers have the access and support they need to tell their stories and share them with the world. In 2025, RESO is doubling down on its advocacy efforts to address longstanding systemic barriers in funding and representation.
Greater Access to Funding
The organization is advocating for long-term, multi-year financial support to ensure sustainable operations and project development.
One of the most ambitious goals for 2025 is the establishment of an independent film fund dedicated exclusively to racialized creatives. This initiative, in collaboration with partners like the Canadian Independent Screen Fund, aims to bridge the gap left by traditional funding avenues.
Private funding is also a key focus. RESO is developing strategies to attract support from private donors and foundations, diversifying its financial resources to create a more robust ecosystem for underrepresented filmmakers.
Educating Funding Bodies
Another critical effort involves educating government agencies such as Telefilm, the Canada Media Fund (CMF), and the Canada Council for the Arts (CCA). By addressing the unique challenges faced by racialized filmmakers—including cultural influences, language barriers, and limited market access—RESO seeks to reshape how funding decisions are made. These efforts aim to ensure that diverse perspectives and voices are not just included but prioritized.
Elevating Talent and Voices
In 2025, RESO is set to expand its talent development programs, ensuring underrepresented voices not only enter the industry but thrive across all levels of production and storytelling.
Training and Mentorship Initiatives
Building career pathways for racialized creatives remains a cornerstone of RESO’s mission. This year, the organization will enhance its mentorship and training programs to equip filmmakers with the tools, connections, and opportunities they need to succeed. These initiatives aim to support talent at every stage of their journey, from emerging artists finding their voice to seasoned professionals advancing to new heights.
Collaboration is key to these efforts. RESO plans to partner with other organizations already offering capacity-building programs, ensuring a comprehensive approach to career development. By pooling resources and expertise, RESO is creating a network of support that spans the entire screen industry.
Closing the Gaps
To effectively address systemic barriers, RESO is leveraging race-based data to identify gaps in opportunities and representation. This data-driven approach allows the organization to tailor its initiatives to meet the specific needs of racialized communities. Whether it’s addressing disparities in hiring practices or providing targeted support for filmmakers in underrepresented regions, RESO is committed to creating an equitable playing field.
Exporting Diasporic Narratives Globally
In an increasingly interconnected world, the demand for authentic and diverse stories is growing. RESO recognizes this opportunity and is determined to position Canadian diasporic filmmakers on the global stage.
Breaking Barriers to Global Markets
RESO is working to identify and dismantle the structures that hinder the export of Canadian diaspora content. Challenges such as limited access to international distribution channels and a lack of representation in major film markets have historically kept many racialized filmmakers from reaching global audiences. By addressing these barriers, RESO is creating new opportunities for diasporic stories to shine.
Building Connections at Global Film Markets
One of RESO’s primary strategies is facilitating the presence of racialized filmmakers at international film festivals and industry events. These platforms offer valuable opportunities for networking, learning, and showcasing Canadian talent.
Focusing on Key Markets
RESO’s approach includes targeting established markets in Asia and Latin America, regions with a natural affinity for diasporic storytelling. By building strategic partnerships and fostering cultural exchanges, RESO is paving the way for racialized Canadian filmmakers to establish a lasting presence in these vibrant markets.
The Legacy of EXNW 2024
The EXNW (East by Northwest) summit, held from July 26 to 28, 2024, was a groundbreaking event that brought together racialized creatives, industry leaders, and global buyers in Vancouver.
As RESO reflects on the success of this summit, its impact is shaping the organization’s vision and initiatives for 2025.
A Nexus for Creativity and Innovation
EXNW 2024 served as a vibrant hub for collaboration and inspiration. By connecting filmmakers with industry professionals and mentors, the summit fostered an environment where creative ideas flourished, and new pathways for storytelling were forged. The event also provided an unparalleled platform for global buyers to discover unique diasporic narratives, underscoring the value of these stories in today’s market.
Lessons Learned and New Opportunities
The summit highlighted key areas for growth and innovation. From building stronger industry connections to addressing gaps in representation and support, EXNW 2024 offered valuable insights that will guide RESO’s programs and advocacy efforts in the year ahead. The summit also emphasized the importance of creating systems that prioritize the unique needs of racialized filmmakers and their engaged audiences.
The Road Ahead
Inspired by the success of EXNW, RESO plans to integrate similar initiatives into its 2025 agenda. Whether through new summits, expanded networking opportunities, or global showcases, the organization is committed to keeping the momentum alive and ensuring that the voices of racialized creatives continue to be amplified on all screens.
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
As RESO moves into 2025, its vision remains rooted in creating equitable opportunities for racialized filmmakers while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the Canadian screen industry.
Strengthening Collaboration
In 2025, the organization aims to deepen its partnerships with community organizations, funding bodies, and private sector allies. By fostering a culture of cooperation, RESO hopes to address the “culture of scarcity” that has historically hindered collaboration among underrepresented groups.
Expanding Impact
With a focus on scalability, RESO plans to expand its reach and impact in 2025. This includes introducing new mentorship and training programs, creating innovative funding mechanisms, and further enhancing the pathways for Canadian diaspora stories to connect with global audiences.
Advocating for Systemic Change
By working closely with government agencies, funding organizations, and private stakeholders, RESO seeks to build a more inclusive ecosystem where diverse stories are not only valued but celebrated.
A Future of Representation and Innovation
As RESO looks beyond 2025, its goal is to continue paving the way for a film industry that truly reflects the diversity of Canada’s population. By amplifying the stories of racialized creatives and pushing for innovation, RESO is laying the groundwork for a future where everyone can shine on all screens.
Wrapping Up
2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for RESO and the filmmakers it supports. From advocating for equitable funding to exporting the stories of Canadian diasporic creatives globally, RESO’s comprehensive approach is creating tangible pathways for change. By addressing systemic barriers, fostering collaboration, and empowering underrepresented voices, the organization is not just reshaping the Canadian film industry—it’s setting a global standard for inclusivity and representation.