2019 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

The Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative provides industry access and opportunity to underrepresented emerging and established producers and creators from across Canada. It is designed to supercharge the careers of its participants and help projects at all stages move forward on both a national and global scale. It is supported by Netflix in association with BANFF, the Canada Media Fund (CMF), Canada’s Indigenous Screen Office and the Société de développement des entreprises culturelles (SODEC).

Highlights from the 2019 program include: 

  • Almost 500 applications from Canadian Indigenous, Francophone and women creators and producers, nearly doubling the number of applicants over 2018
  • Of that number, 94 participants attended the 40th Banff World Media Festival
  • 25 participants were selected for the Diversity of Voices Pitch Program, through which they received financial assistance, pitching, and networking opportunities. Mentors volunteered from across the industry, including Justin Simien (Creator, Dear White People), Vera Santamaria (Writer and Co-Executive Producer, Orange Is The New Black), Cort Lane (SVP Animation & Family Entertainment, Marvel Entertainment) and Trish Williams (Executive Director, Scripted Content, CBC) 
  • All participants were offered access to a tailored Diversity of Voices content track, featuring specially selected speakers offering business-building insights and information to participants.
  • All participants were also invited to a welcome luncheon with partners, media, government, and industry executives.

Click here for more details on the program and a copy of the 2019 Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative report.


“This single program advanced my career in dynamic and profound ways. It was an honour and privilege to participate and to be selected.

- Tamara Bell, Director/Producer

“Undeniably the most significant part of my conference experience was connecting and being moved and inspired by the powerful convergence of peers and storytellers. I highly recommend this as a core part of any producer or content maker's professional development.

- Anne Heubi, Content Maker/Producer/Storyteller

“BANFF does have some magic way of providing opportunities I had never expected.

- Karen Hawes, Creator/Director/Producer

“My experience with the Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Pitch Program was truly incredible. The new contacts I made, the mentor I was paired with and the new projects in motion wouldn't have happened without being a part of DOV. This program has already proved invaluable for moving my career in so many exciting new directions. Thank you so much!

- Monique Hurteau, Writer/Producer/Director

“While arriving at Banff, I was a shy emerging producer wondering how I could fit in such an industry. While leaving Banff, I was a warrior ready to win all the battles it takes to make my projects happen.

- Marion Transetti, Producer

“The Diversity Of Voices program is an experience every film creative should experience; I have so much more perspective on the industry now. Your fellow participants are a goldmine of ambition, talent, and collaboration; build together!

- Jonathan Lawrence, Producer/Director/Writer/Actor