How to Create Community: Celebrating Our Volunteers

What do these 10 people have in common? 

They believe in Stella’s Place. They share a passion for film and young adult mental health. They agree that films can open up dialogue and encourage reflection in a way that little else can. 

They are the Get Reel Film Fest jury and we couldn’t be more grateful or proud of the invaluable work they have done over the past 6 months to support our community and this growing event.

The theme for this year’s volunteer week is Empathy in Action, focusing on how volunteering creates connected communities. This couldn’t be more true for our generous and talented jury members.

Putting in work

Supporting emerging artists is a major focus of the film fest, and this year we were able to offer four film grants thanks to the generosity of our title sponsor, Lori McBurney. Since the beginning of the year, jury members evaluated and assessed almost 30 detailed scholarship applications, and then went on to mentor the 4 selected recipients. In the words of filmmaker Amanda Ann-Min Wong,

“My favourite part has been seeing all the amazing work and talent that came from all the applications — so many unique ideas! And also to be able to connect with the filmmakers after their project was selected, and hearing them speak about their project with incredible vision and passion.” 

Karen Lang, whose background as a donor, occupational therapist and hobbyist filmmaker attracted her to the jury work, adds

“Reviewing the range of proposals submitted for selection was an interesting and insightful experience. I was impressed with the young filmmakers and learned so much in the process.”

Sharing Expertise

Jury members Michelle Melles and Pedro Orrego contribute vast experience and knowledge from the perspective of documentary filmmaking. Here’s Michelle speaking about the storytelling technique ‘The Hero’s Journey’ as a filmmaker and panelist at last year’s film fest:

Jury members also offer valuable advice on technical aspects, such as what file formats are needed and how to make films accessible with additions like visual descriptions. We also had conversations about telling personal stories in authentic ways that de-stigmatize mental illness. 

“These grants and support are everything to a filmmaker. I myself have been the recipient of grants/support from festivals and organizations. In this way, I wanted to give back to the community, and support other filmmakers. Having this support not only makes the art possible, it also encourages the filmmaker that their work is valid and meaningful. I hope that we can continue to create a circle of support networks for filmmakers making work about mental health, to normalize discussions around its portrayals in media and on screen,” elaborates Amanda.

Making Connections

Flourishing communities have members who feel encouraged and inspired to participate. 5 of our 10 volunteers joined the film fest jury after a debut at last year’s film fest.  Films can change lives. Lauren & Sarah screened the film Purple Waves last year and spoke about why they chose to partner with Stella’s Place:

Amanda highlights the connections she’s built through making her film and meeting other talented artists on the jury, “all of whom are dedicated and passionate about portrayals of mental health on screen.”