Programs & Events
Providing low-barrier, accessible programming to women and gender diverse filmmakers is a core part of GEMS’ mission. We offer an array of programs, including educational events and mentorships, aimed at increasing the participation of women and gender diverse people in film and television. These programs are designed to offer opportunities to connect, learn and grow at every stage of your career.
Attend our events
Reel Talks
For emerging and seasoned filmmakers, producers, directors, screenwriters, actors and everyone who wants to know more about the industry, our Reel Talks feature moderated conversations with special guests, and are a great way to grow your film knowledge and community.
Refractions Workshop Series
The Refractions Workshop Series equips creators who have been historically under-represented with the skills to make their mark in an evolving film industry. Designed to amplify their voices to showcase fresh perspectives and more inclusive stories.
GEMFest
For emerging and seasoned filmmakers, producers, directors, screenwriters, actors and everyone who wants to know more about the industry, our Reel Talks feature moderated conversations with special guests, and are a great way to grow your film knowledge and community.
Learn with us
The Genre Film Lab
The Genre Film Lab (formerly known as From Our Dark Side) is an accelerator program designed to support the development of effective finance, packaging and pitching strategies for genre film creators whose projects are at an advanced stage of development.
Emerging TV Producers Program
The Emerging TV Producers Program provides participants with an entry point, a strategic plan and a supportive network to shepherd their first TV projects successfully into the complex Canadian TV production system.
WFF Mentorship Program
The GEMS – Whistler Film Festival (WFF) Market Preparation Mentorship is a development program that provides a producer, director or writer the opportunity to take a a feature film or series concept to market.
Producer's
Workbook 5
The Producer’s Workbook 5 (PW5) is an invaluable roadmap for independent producers bravely making their way through the ever-changing complexities involved with bringing a project from script to screen.