The National Screen Institute (NSI), Women in View and the Disability Screen Office (DSO) have partnered to launch the Disabled Producers Lab.

Developed with Disabled filmmakers Ophira Calof and Michelle Asgarali, the lab is designed for Disabled producers across Canada aged 18 or older who are marginalized by gender, including transgender women, cisgender women, transgender men, non-binary people and many other gender identities.

Up to five participants with a completed short film script ready to develop will be paired with industry mentors to create a comprehensive production binder featuring a realistic schedule, budget, accessibility plan and pitch package.

Over 12 weeks, participants will take part in virtual sessions to learn the ropes of producing from industry experts. Sample topics include pitching and packaging, script to schedule planning and distribution and marketing.

A public case study report will be created from the program findings to help develop industry best practices.

Participants will receive a $3,250 stipend in acknowledgement of their time and contribution to the case study report. Applications are accepted until July 22.

“There are so many gender-marginalized Disabled creatives with incredible producing insights and skillsets who have been systematically excluded from the entertainment industry,” said program co-lead Calof in a statement. “This program aims to explore and interrogate conventional practices, supporting Disabled creatives to develop their own accessible processes.”

“Women in View is honoured to have been involved in the inception and design of this program. Working with the remarkable talents of Ophira and Michelle to create this first of its kind program, giving voice to the Disabled community, has been truly rewarding,” added Women in View’s Jan Miller, noting that the NSI later came on board to run the program.

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