The Black Screen Office and Paramount+ Canada have announced plans to expand the Black Creators Festival Initiative program.

The program, launched in May 2022, has supported 60 Black Canadian creators and played a role in advancing their careers in TV and film. The latest expansion of the partnership will mean continued international exposure following stops in South Africa, Berlin, and Cannes last year.

“We are pleased to welcome Paramount+ as a partner in our mission to support Black Canadian content creators. Their generous contribution underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry. Together, we can continue to promote the voices and talents of our community on a global stage. Thank you, Paramount+, for joining us on this journey,” said Joan Jenkinson, executive director of the Black Screen Office.

The partnership is also expected to connect filmmakers with industry stakeholders such as buyers, producers, distributors, and financiers, creating new opportunities for Black Canadian content creators.

“The world needs more diverse storytelling from Canada and that is only possible by supporting and developing our incredible home-grown talent,” said Doug Smith, senior vice president of streaming and content licensing at Paramount Global in Canada. “Under the leadership of Joan Jenkinson, the Black Screen Office is a crucial resource and we are thrilled to be their partner in the Black Creators Festival Initiative to support talent whose stories will entertain, educate and inspire audiences around the world for years to come.”