We had the pleasure of sharing a room with 20 of the most inspirational women in film and television on Dec. 3 for the 4th annual Women’s International Film and Television Showcase (WIFTS) Visionary Awards at the TIFF Bell Lightbox.
Ann Marie Fleming, Best Short Film Award
The WIFTS Foundation strives to highlight excellent bodies of work that women have initiated or are actively participating in. Recognition was based on individuality, not necessarily gender, across a wealth of categories ranging from entrepreneurship to best actress and visionary to lifetime achievement.
Ruba Nadda, Best Director Award
As each woman proudly accepted her award on stage, we felt inspired not only by the exceptional work they have been recognized for, but also the humbling words of encouragement for their peers in an industry that still predominately features men in prominent roles.
Sammie Kennedy, Elizabeth Grant Entrepreneur Award
Some women literally put their lives in danger for their projects in war zones, while others are shaking up the industry with works ranging from insightful documentaries to feature films garnering mentions of Oscar nomination.
Jacqueline Brodie, Lifetime Achievement Award
One particularly touching story was that of the late Sally Goodrich, winner of the Humanitarian Award, for her work in Afghanistan that helped build a local school and start a new life in Canada for a young girl whose life was in danger in the war-torn country.
Ingrid Veninger, Best Film Award
Highlighting some of the initiatives started by the women in attendance was an eat local program that focuses on urban food and fruit harvesting and a network of women’s shelters in Afghanistan that protects at-risk women and girls from government intervention and Taliban force.
Wendy Crewson, Best Actress Award
A humourous sendoff by decorating icon Debbie Travis (pictured at top), who took home the Television Pioneer Award, concluded the night, which was co-sponsored by the Theatre for Humans and Elizabeth Grant. For the event photo gallery, click here.
To see the full list of honorees and their respective awards, click here.