On June 14, the FNQLHSSC had the privilege of attending the annual Wapikoni Mobile studio launch at the Cinéma du Musée in Montréal. This event marked an important milestone for Wapikoni Mobile, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. In 2023, Wapikoni Mobile produced 52 films demonstrating its continued commitment to supporting and promoting First Nations filmmakers.
An evening marked by inspiring speeches
More than a hundred people attended this event including notable personalities such as Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador, Ghislain Picard, and the Minister Responsible for Relations with the First Nations and the Inuit, Ian Lafrenière. In his speech, Chief Picard stressed the importance of showcasing First Nations filmmakers. He emphasized the need to promote the cultures, youth and traditions of the First Peoples while supporting the next generation. In his opinion, “Wapikoni Mobile helps preserve all these aspects as well as the realities that First Nations face on a daily basis.”
A selection of moving films
During the event, 12 films highlighting the diversity and depth of First Nations experiences were selected and viewed.
Talents rewarded
Among the highlights of the evening, Kim Arseneault, an Abenaki from Wôlinak, was awarded the “Prix de la relève” (emerging talent award) for her short film Madah8do Al8miwi Nia (the monster in me), a poignant film exploring her journey of healing from anxiety. As for Marie Rock-Hervieux, an Innu from Pessamit, she was awarded the “Prix du public” (public’s choice award) for her work Résilience, which addresses intergenerational trauma with remarkable sensitivity and depth.
Captivating artistic performances
The audience also had the opportunity to experience two performances by First Nations artists. The young and talented Eadsé, from the Wendat Nation, enchanted the audience with her music and Makhena Rankin Guérin, from the community of Pikogan, dazzled the audience with her hoop dance, once again demonstrating the richness and diversity of First Nations artistic talents.
Thank you, Wapikoni Mobile!
The First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission would like to extend its warmest thanks to Wapikoni Mobile for the invitation to this unifying event that showcased local talents. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Wapikoni Mobile and the First Nations filmmakers it supports with so much passion and dedication.
