Annual Canadian Film Centre (CFC) BBQ and Fundraiser 2019 during TIFF19 presented by Netflix

The 31st Annual Canadian Film Centre(CFC) BBQ and Fundraiser 2019 during TIFF ( Toronto International Film Festival )presented by Netflix, was held on the grounds of the beautiful Windfields Estate in North York. It was a gathering of over 1500 guests who came out to support the programs of the CFC in the areas of in film, TV, music and digital media (including VR and AR). It was also a great way to pay tribute to the accomplishments of Canadian talents.

Canadian Film Centre (CFC) BBQ 2019 and Fundraiser during TIFF19 presented by Netflix

Canadian Film Centre (CFC) BBQ 2019 and Fundraiser during TIFF19 presented by Netflix

Producer Christina Jennings, Chair of CFC’s board of directors and chair and CEO of Shaftesbury Films, was the emcee for the afternoon.

CFC CEO Slawko Klymkiw told guests that at this year’s TIFF, 58 CFC alumni had worked on 23 films. Moreover, the Federal Government is providing a $3.4 million investment in CFC through the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy. The Ontario Government is also giving a $350,000 grant to the CFC.

Audrey Gardiner, Netflix Director of Content and Acquisition, spoke about the  Netflix-CFC Global Project, which helps advance Canadian creatives with their projects and provide opportunities for them internationally. She also announced the opening of the Netflix House at the CFC, where CFC residents can work together and workshop projects.

CFC Founder and Chair Emeritus, the legendary Canadian producer/director, Norman Jewison, came on stage to share his excitement about the success of program graduates and was happy to announce that this year’s TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival )opening night film, “Once We Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and the Band” was produced by Peter Raymont, one of the first CFC film graduates.

Slawko Klymkiw CEO of CFC at CFC BBQ Tiff 2019 presented by Netflix

Norman Jewison at CFC BBQ Tiff 2019 presented by Netflix

Christina Jennings at CFC BBQ Tiff 2019 presented by Netflix

CFC BBQ Tiff 2019 presented by Netflix

After the speeches, guests were treated to enjoy the music of singer/songwriter Sam Drysdale, and singer/songwriter Ava Kay.

There were plenty of food options to choose from toronto’s top caterers like 10tation Event Catering, The Real Jerk, The Mighty Cob, Schinoussa Superfoods and Pizzaville.   Gelato Fresco, Honeybutter Desserts, and Lollicakes added lots of sweetness to the day. Peller Family Vineyards, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Mill St. Brewery, Brickworks Cider Horse, Nespresso and Flow Water provided refreshments.

Canadian Film Centre (CFC) BBQ 2019 and Fundraiser during TIFF19 presented by Netflix

Canadian Film Centre (CFC) BBQ 2019 and Fundraiser during TIFF19 presented by Netflix

Canadian Film Centre (CFC) BBQ 2019 and Fundraiser during TIFF19 presented by Netflix

Some of the notable guests attending were TorontoMayor John Tory, Ministerof Tourism, Culture &Sport, Lisa McLeod   MP for Don Valley West, Rob Oliphant, Chairman/CEO of Comweb Corp.

Paul Bronfman, actor Emmanuel Kabongo, actor David Pinard,  classical guitarist Liona Boyd, and singer/ songwriters Marc Jordan and Amy Sky.