The Jane & Finch Youth Film and Arts Festival takes place tomorrow night, Wednesday, August 22nd at the York Woods Library Theatre. Its aim is to celebrate the creativity of youth from across the city. Art, photography, films, giveaways and more.
I had the pleasure of connecting with the event coordinator, Geeta Wahab, and was able to ask her a few questions in order for us learn more about this great community initiative.
HM: How did the idea of the Jane & Finch Youth Film Fest come about?
Wahab: The film festival came up as idea during a discussion between community stakeholders and the number of media and arts programs and the lack of platform for those youth to showcase the work they have created. Last year we started as just a film festival and this year have already expanded to include arts and photography.
HM: What guidelines do you follow when choosing the films & art works that will be showcased in the festival?
Wahab: The guidelines are pretty open, the festival was never about competition, just more so about the creativity and the opportunity for youth to show their work on a larger scale. For the future years, as we grow, the process may change but you’ll have to stay tuned to find out.
HM: Lastly, how can members of the community become more involved with this project?
Wahab: Members of the community can always get involved by emailing me (Geeta) at janefinchyouthfilmfestival@gmail.com. Whether it’s for films, art, volunteer opportunities, promotions, giveaways and donations, we are always open to the community being involved.
There you have it; lots of ways for you to partake in this initiative even after tomorrow. The Jane & Finch Youth and Arts Festival begins at 5pm tomorrow night with the art exhibit and the film showcase at the York Woods Library Theatre, 1785 Finch Ave West, Toronto.