Content Creator Database provides visibility, connection and networking opportunities to women of colour

BY PAUL JUNOR

The launch of CineFAM’s innovative and creative Women of Colour (WOC) Content Creator Database on Tuesday, March 1^st, 2022, is overdue. Its launch at the start of Women’s History Month is a fitting tribute to WOC creatives. The announcement was made in a media release that provides vital information about this fascinating initiative, which can be seen on, its website: https://cinefam.ca.

CineFAM is a “A database of Canadian Women of Colour (WOC) Content Creators for the purpose of connecting them to audiences, employers and co-production opportunities around the world. This platform enhances the visibility of women of colour in the film industry in hopes of widening their networks and accessibility to larger resources.”

Frances-Anne Solomon who is an award-winning filmmaker, Academy Director Member and CaribbeanTales Media Group founder started CineFAM. The press release notes that the goal of CineFAM is, “To enhance the visibility of Women of Colour in the: film industry, directors, content creators, producers, screenplay writers, actresses, animators, and motion design in hopes of widening their networks and accessibility to larger resources.”

This non-for-profit initiative was made possible from a grant from the Canada Council Of the Arts. The press release states, “The Council is Canada’s public arts funder, with a mandate to Foster and promote the study and enjoyment of, and the production of works in, the arts.”

Frances-Anne Solomon states in the press release, “This database is a step forward for WOC filmmakers’ voices to be heard and their work to be seen. CineFAM’s mission is to promote and broaden the visibility of women of colour in the film industry and provide paths to a larger network, we look forward to welcoming as many new filmmakers as possible.”

I interviewed Courtney Panchan, Project Manager and she shared with me that CanFAM is a Haitian Creole word, which means, ”Films by women.” She mentioned that it was started as a way to ensure that Canadian women of colour are highlighted and receive visibility because they are not represented in mainstream media.

CanFAM provides an important vehicle to facilitate connection and networking for WOC filmmakers as well as the diversified range of content creators who are often not seen, represented or acknowledged at all.

Courtney is of Jamaican-German background and knows the importance of diversity, inclusion and representation in the creative fields. She told me that the searchable database involves members creating a free profile to highlight aspects of their work that can adapt and alter on an on-going basis. It showcases WOC creatives work in real-time.

CineFAM is currently accepting applications from WOC filmmakers or creators at:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1bJSXEygnoaq1LHcwCzsOzwyItMnoC6VDbhhZnVN8/viewform?edit-requested = true. CineFAM can be followed on its social media platforms:

Website: https://cinefam.ca/

Facebook:https:www.facebook.com/CineFAMWOC

Instagram:https:www.instagram.com/cinefam_women/

Twitter:https://twitter.com/cinefam_women