Writers’ Studio

Writers’ Studio selects eight Canadian and international screenwriters to consolidate skills, exchange ideas, and develop scripts, all within a collaborative five-day intensive lab at TIFF Bell Lightbox. Participants take part in workshops, artist talks, table reads, peer-to-peer mentorship, and one-on-one project development with story consultants.

Alumni are invited to participate in the CHANEL Women Writers’ Network, which provides women and non-binary participants with ongoing script development support after the programme ends.

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Filmmaker Lab

Each year, 20 Canadian and international directors receive an exceptional professional development experience at the Toronto International Film Festival, and an introduction to the global community of filmmaking. Over a four-day period, participants have the opportunity to interact with and learn from internationally acclaimed filmmakers and guests.

Fellowships generously sponsored by Share Her Journey and For the Love of Film donors ensure that programme participants are given additional financial support to help them fulfill their creative vision.

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TIFF–CBC Films Screenwriter Award

A cash award is provided to the Canadian writer of an outstanding feature-film screenplay. Presented in partnership with CBC Films.

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Micki Moore Residency

A programme for women who are outstanding Canadian screenwriters has been established to elevate and support talent. The Residency is being generously supported by Toronto-based broadcaster, journalist, and actor Micki Moore.

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Talent Accelerator

Talent Accelerator provides six Canadian women creators with mentorship, support, and access to TIFF Industry programming year-round. Two directors are fast-tracked into spots at TIFF Filmmaker Lab, two writers are fast-tracked into spots at TIFF Writers’ Studio, and two producers are provided a travel stipend and industry accreditation to either the Sundance or Berlin Film Festivals.

Talent Accelerator participants are supported by Share Her Journey donors, including a stipend provided by Netflix and ongoing support from the RBC Women Creators’ Initiative.

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Rising Stars

TIFF Rising Stars is part of our ongoing commitment to promoting Canadian and international cinema and talent on the world stage. This programme showcases new talent from all over the world, putting an emphasis on the next generation of actors poised for international success.

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