GEMFest 2026 – Gender Equity in Media Festival Vancouver

Event Overview

GEMFest 2026 (Gender Equity in Media Festival) returns to Vancouver as a powerful film and industry festival dedicated to championing women and gender diverse creators in film and television. Organized by Gender Equity in Media Society Vancouver (GEMS), the festival features curated film screenings, shorts programmes, panel discussions, townhalls, and professional development sessions designed to support emerging filmmakers and industry professionals.

This multi-day Vancouver film festival focuses on storytelling, advocacy, and career development in screen-based media, creating an inclusive platform where diverse voices, perspectives, and creative works are showcased and celebrated.

Festival Dates

March 6 – March 8, 2026

Location

Vancouver, BC, Canada
(Various screening and event venues – details provided to pass holders and on the official schedule)

About GEMS Vancouver

Gender Equity in Media Society Vancouver (GEMS) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1989, committed to advancing gender equity in film and television. Formerly known as Women in Film and Television Vancouver (WIFTV), GEMS supports inclusive and representative media by addressing systemic barriers in funding, employment, and promotional opportunities for women and gender diverse creators.

The organization also provides mentorship, educational programming, and accessible professional development initiatives to strengthen participation in the Canadian screen industry.

GEMFest 2026 Festival Programming

GEMFest 2026 features a dynamic lineup of film screenings, shorts showcases, and industry-focused sessions included with the GEMFest Festival Pass.

Featured Film Screenings & Shorts Programmes

• Shorts: Spark – March 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM
• Shorts: Smoke – March 6, 2026 at 1:00 PM
• Shorts: Flame – March 6, 2026 at 3:30 PM
• Shorts: Blaze – March 6, 2026 at 8:15 PM
• Acts of Vision Shorts Programme – March 7, 2026 at 12:00 PM

Additional featured films include:

• Fire Within – March 6 at 4:00 PM
• Dinner With Friends – March 6 at 6:00 PM
• Foreigner – March 6 at 8:30 PM
• A Cree Approach – March 7 at 1:30 PM
• Have You Heard Judi Singh? – March 8 at 1:00 PM

Industry Panels, Talks & Professional Development Sessions

GEMFest is known for its insightful industry discussions and educational sessions for filmmakers and media professionals, including:

• Making Your First Feature in Canada: Navigating the System – March 6 at 11:00 AM
• Your Script Isn’t the Problem: Notes, Agency & Advocating for Your Story – March 6 at 1:30 PM
• Who Holds the Story?: Community Storytelling, Consent & Cultural Stewardship – March 6 at 6:30 PM
• Getting Seen: Discovery, Support & Promotion After Production – March 7 at 10:00 AM
• Funding Realities: A Community Townhall – March 8 at 11:00 AM

These sessions provide valuable insights into funding, storytelling, production, and career growth in the Canadian film and television industry.

Festival Pass & Ticket Information

GEMFest 2026 Festival Pass – General: $240
GEMFest 2026 Festival Pass – Low-Barrier: $192

The festival pass provides access to GEMFest films and industry events throughout the festival.

Please Note: Opening Night, Firecracker Film Fest, Pitch Forum, and the GEMFest Awards Ceremony & Festival Party are not included in the standard Festival Pass.

Mission & Community Impact

GEMFest and GEMS Vancouver work to advocate for equity in funding, employment, and promotional opportunities within the film and television industry. The festival champions inclusive storytelling and supports women and gender diverse creators through mentorship, education, and community-building initiatives.

By creating accessible programming and low-barrier opportunities, GEMFest plays a vital role in strengthening Vancouver’s creative industry and fostering a more inclusive media landscape in Canada.

Who Should Attend

• Filmmakers and content creators
• Film students and media professionals
• Producers and screenwriters
• Industry professionals in film and TV
• Supporters of inclusive and diverse storytelling
• Anyone interested in Vancouver film festivals and independent cinema

Code of Conduct & Inclusivity

GEMS Vancouver is committed to providing a supportive, respectful, and welcoming environment where participants can share knowledge, stories, and professional experiences while building strong creative networks within the industry.

Why Attend GEMFest 2026 in Vancouver

GEMFest 2026 is one of Vancouver’s most meaningful film festivals focused on equity, representation, and professional growth in screen-based media. With curated screenings, expert panels, and community discussions, the festival offers a unique opportunity to discover emerging filmmakers and engage with important conversations shaping the future of film and television.

Official Website: https://gemsvancouver.org

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