The Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF) has appointed actor, writer and producer Rick Tae as its new festival director.

Effective Feb. 10, Tae is responsible for curating programming, fostering industry partnerships and creating opportunities for underrepresented and emerging artists.

Kei Baritugo most recently held the role of interim festival director. She has since left the VAFF executive team, a VAFF spokesperson told Playback Daily. Susan Hanson served as VAFF executive director from 2021 to 2023.

Tae is the founder and owner of Vancouver-based Skycorner Academy which offers mentorship and training for actors. From 2003 to 2006, he was VAFF’s director of media and publicity. He also assisted in programming the festival in various years. He won a Leo Award in 2006 for his supporting role in the Bravo! and Citytv series Godiva’s.

“VAFF is a vital platform for amplifying Asian voices in film and fostering cultural understanding through storytelling,” said Tae in a statement. “I am honoured to build on its incredible legacy and look forward to working with the talented team to champion diversity and innovation in the arts.”

Image courtesy of Vancouver Asian Film Festival