Following a tumultuous year, Hot Docs has announced eight additions to its programming team for next year’s festival, as well as the promotion of Heather Haynes to director of programming.

The new additions include international features programmers Kinga Binkowska, Julian Carrington, Lauren Clarke and David Knipe; associate international features programmers Simone Estrin and Elspeth Arbow; international shorts programmer Hawa Essuman; and associate international shorts programmer Reza Sameni.

Haynes, previously the director of festival programming, will oversee programming at the Bloor cinema and Docs for Schools, the organization’s national educational program, in addition to the annual Hot Docs festival.

She has spent 19 years with the organization, formerly serving as its senior international programmer and associate director of festival programming.

Rounding out the existing team are festival programming manager Kristin Boivin; senior international features programmers Gabor Pertic and Lucila Moctezuma; international features programmers Gugi Gumilang and Vicci Ho; senior international shorts and Canadian programmer Mariam Zaidi; international mid-lengths programmer Vivian Belik; senior Canadian programmer Alex Rogalski and Canadian programmer Aisha Jamal.

Back in March, the non-profit saw a mass exodus of 10 programmers, penning a statement alleging “breaches of contracts across various programs,” “a lack of respect for protocol and business communication” and “the dismissal and/or diminishment of team members’ voices.” Shortly after, Hot Docs confirmed its then-artistic director Hussain Currimbhoy had exited the festival.

This was followed in May by the temporary closure of Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema as a cost-cutting measure. In June, Hot Docs’ board of directors was scaled down to a working board of three members, while  its president Marie Nelson departed in July. The board is currently seeking her replacement.

Earlier this month, Hot Docs announced it is actively seeking a new owner for its cinema, with plans to secure a lease-back agreement that will allow its programming to continue. Year-round programming will restart on Dec. 4.

“My colleagues, whose dedication and resilience have been unwavering in the face of our recent challenges, inspire me daily,” said Haynes in a statement.

“While our work is far from finished, we are steadfast in our commitment to re-stabilize and secure a future where we continue to support Canadian and international filmmakers, strengthen the documentary industry and serve our devoted audiences with the passion and excellence they deserve.”

The 32nd edition of the Hot Docs International Film Festival will take place from April 24 to May 5, 2025.

Image courtesy of Hot Docs