If You Ask Me (IYAM) is a free program that supports emerging filmmakers (18-30 years old) with mental health and/or addiction experiences to develop a short film from their point of view in the company of like-minded peers in a supportive environment. Over the summer, a small group of filmmakers will be selected to engage in workshops on aspects of filmmaking and be exposed to professional artists who also take a personal standpoint to filmmaking. This is a paid opportunity and filmmakers will have an opportunity to screen their work at the 34th annual Rendezvous with Madness Festival currently set to run October 23-October 30, 2026.
IYAM will run in-person at LIFT – Liaison of Independent Filmmakers of Toronto (1137 Dupont Street at Dufferin) on 8 Mondays from July 6-August 31st (except Statutory Holidays) from 2-5PM. Filmmakers are expected to take a self-directed approach to create their own films and will receive support and strategies throughout the program. All genres of film are welcome such as documentary, experimental, fiction, and animation; all devices for filmmaking are welcome whether it is phone, tablet, or any variety of camera!
The due date for applications is Friday, June 18th, 2026 by 11:59 PM EDT.
Successful applicants will be notified on June 26th.
Questions? Please contact Julian_Diego@WorkmanArts.com