(Q&A) CURATING CINEMATIC EXPERIENCES: The Film Programmer’s Role in Festival Selections

This panel explores the work of the pivotal role of a film festival programmer in selecting films for a film festival. Join us as you learn how the captivating lineup that aligns with the festival's vision, theme, and audience preferences is selected.

MODERATOR:

Juliet Mawusi - Film Director, VIBFF Black Market Coordinator

Juliet Mawusi is a Ghanaian distinguished figure in the media and film realm based in Halifax Nova Scotia. As a Broadcast Journalist and Film Director, she specializes in crafting narratives illuminating Black communities’ experiences and challenges. Renowned for her impactful work, such as “Being Black in the Nova Scotian Music Industry,” My Type of Hair, My Black Father, Juliet has been featured on esteemed platforms like CBC East Coast, the Atlantic International Film Festival, Eastlink Community TV, festivals across Canada and others. Her ultimate goal extends beyond mere storytelling; she envisions sparking meaningful social change within communities through the compelling narratives she brings to life. She was recently named as one of the 100 Black Women to watch out for in Canada among other outstanding recognition.

SPEAKER:

Jean-François Méan - VIBFF Senior Film Programmer

Jean-François Méan is the Senior Film Programmer of the Fabienne Colas Foundation and collaborates in the programming of its Black film festivals. He is a graduate of Concordia’s Film Program, has shot numerous short films and documentaries, and has worked in film production and distribution on the African continent. His work has aired on TV5, Téléquébec and CBC. A fierce proponent of the transformative power of cinema, he strives to help develop projects in his community and to increase its access to seminal films.