Education & Outreach
TIFF harnesses the unique power of film to unlock imagination and encourage lifelong curiosity and enjoyment of the arts. We believe audiences of all ages and background deserve this rich experience, which is why accessibility, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of what we do.
Our film-based learning programmes develop critical thinking skills and empathy – the need for which has never been greater in our screen-saturated modern world. Who is telling the story? Who is represented and how? We equip film-learners with the tools to enjoy and analyze the stories that surround them, while developing more confident, understanding and creative citizens.
Your support makes a diverse range of activity possible:
Free film-craft workshops and screenings to meet the needs of under-served youth across the GTA:
- In 2016, we engaged over 1,900 young people in their communities, partnering with organizations including Four Corners (Malton), Pathways to Education (Scarborough), and West Neighbourhood House (Parkdale).
Outreach programmes for seniors and mental health clients:
- Since 2012, our work with in-patient psychiatric units and organizations with a focus on mental health has trebled in reach – now supporting 1,200 individuals on their path to wellness each year.
Reel Comfort
“This programme (Reel Comfort) offers our clients a unique
opportunity to engage in their community.
We love being able to connect them with this arts in this way.”
— Courtney Brennan, Occupational Therapist/Case Manager,
CAMH (Downtown East Outpatient Clinic)
Free access to our diverse and inclusive year-round film programming:
- We provide over $55,000 in free tickets to over 5,000 children, families, mental health clients, and seniors annually to eliminate financial circumstance as a barrier to participation.
“Thank you for inviting us and funding our trip to TIFF.
I liked the movie because I learned
to be brave and help a friend. We had fun!!!”
— Moshood, age 8, Pocket Fund recipient
Vital launch pads for young film lovers — including the TIFF Kids International Film Festival and the TIFF Next Wave Committee.
Summer Camp
TIFF Next Wave
“Being a part of TIFF has developed my leadership skills; strengthened my voice
in my community and empowered me to form my own path and follow my creative
and professional dreams.The confidence and success I am now experiencing
would not have happened without TIFF’s community outreach.”
— Sariena Luy, 2016/2017 TIFF Next Wave Committee Member
Engagement with unparalleled industry luminaries
- Higher Learning connects leading experts from a wide variety of disciplines with post secondary students, to extend learning and grow aspirations.
Higher Learning