JAYU Festival of the Arts: Short Films Screening
Short Films Screening
Sometimes, a few minutes on screen can stay with you long after the credits roll.
Join us for the JAYU Festival of the Arts Short Film Screenings, bringing together filmmakers who explore human rights, social justice, and the lived experiences that shape how we see ourselves, each other, and the world around us. Through stories that challenge assumptions, spark curiosity, and bring underrepresented perspectives to the forefront, these films invite us to look a little closer at the world we share.
After watching the films, stick around for a panel discussion with the filmmakers, where you'll hear directly from the creatives behind the films. Learn more about their work, the stories and ideas that inspired them, and the perspectives that shape their filmmaking. It's an opportunity to go beyond the screen and get to know the people behind the stories.
In Collaboration with CinéFilm

CinèFilm
CinéFilm is a Toronto-based film community bringing filmmakers and film lovers together through a shared love of storytelling, connection, and conversation. They approach film with intention, curiosity, and care, creating spaces to discover bold and meaningful films that explore diverse experiences, identities, and perspectives. Through curated screenings, they create opportunities for filmmakers and audiences to engage in thoughtful discussions, extending the film experience beyond the screen and fostering connection in the room. Whether behind the camera or in the audience, there is a place for everyone in their community.
Agenda
- 6:30 pm
Doors Open
Arrive and connect with the community and filmmakers.
- 7:00 pm
Welcome & Introduction
Opening remarks and an introduction to the JAYU Festival of the Arts and this year’s short films.
- 7:10 pm
Screening Begins
- 8:00 am
Panel Discussion
Hear directly from the filmmakers as they discuss their work, creative processes, and the ideas behind their films.
- 9:00 pm
Event Concludes
FAQs
- What is JAYU?
JAYU is a registered Canadian charity that equips and platforms equity-deserving individuals dedicated to using art for change. Rooted in community and informed by human rights, we deliver transformative arts programs and mentorship for youth across the GTA, as well as education and employment opportunities for emerging arts professionals.
Our work is guided by a shared belief in the power of art to transform lives. With the support of our staff, artists, educators, and Board of Directors, we create safe creative spaces through our iAM programming, showcase opportunities like our annual poetry slams, the JAYU Festival of the Arts and by partnering with organizations across the city to bring arts into community hubs and public spaces.
- What is JAYU Festival of the Arts?
JAYU Festival of the Arts (JFA) is a 7-day celebration of creative expression rooted in human rights and social justice, featuring films, workshops, performances, an exhibition, and an artist market. We believe art can be a tool for change by sharing human rights stories, building empathy, fostering healing and community, and sparking the conversations that help push the world toward a more equitable, loving place.
- How does ticketing work?
As part of JAYU’s commitment to accessibility, we offer different types of ticketing to every event to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the festival.
Free Admission: Creates access to our space and events for those who may not be in a position to give.
Give-What-You-Can: Builds welcoming spaces for everyone to share their stories. This option is for folks that are able to donate and wish to support JAYU Festival of the Arts and our programming.
- What is accessibility like at your venue?
401 Richmond is wheelchair accessible with gender neutral washrooms. Wheelchair entrances are located:
At the front entrance near the Roastery Café (east of Spadina Avenue)
At the north-east corner of the building, near the Spacing and Swipe retail shops (west of the corner of Richmond and Peter Streets).
Paid parking is available within the area. We recommend:
83 Peter Street (underground lot; card and online payment options available; 5 minute walk)
448 Richmond Street West (outdoor lot; physical card required; 2 minute walk)
Thank you to our sponsors and funders!
As a registered charity, JAYU’s work is made possible by the generous support of our funders and partners. We gratefully acknowledge the Government of Canada, through Canadian Heritage’s Canadian Arts Presentation Fund and Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program Events Stream, for supporting the JAYU Festival of the Arts.
We also thank our year-round supporters: TD Bank, Lead iAM Core Sponsor; Ontario Trillium Foundation; Charles H. Ivey Foundation; Canada Life; TELUS Friendly Future Foundation; The Daniels Corporation; Canada Council for the Arts; Sony Canada; and the F.K. Morrow Foundation.
Our year-round operations are supported by Toronto Arts Council, with funding from the City of Toronto, and the Ontario Arts Council.
Thank you to all our supporters for helping JAYU keep art, storytelling, and community at the heart of everything we do.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity


