CFC Gala 2025: A Star-Studded Celebration of Canadian Creativity & Storytelling

The Canadian Film Centre Gala 2025: Growing Futures was a dazzling evening of inspiration, elegance, and artistic triumph held at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Toronto. This unforgettable celebration of Canada’s most exciting creative talents brought together filmmakers, industry leaders, and cultural trailblazers, all united by one mission: to nurture the next generation of Canadian storytellers.

Honouring Icons, Empowering Futures:

This year marked the launch of the Norman Jewison Founder’s Council Award, a tribute to legacy and leadership in Canadian film and television. The inaugural honourees – legendary creators Jennifer Podemski, Rick Mercer, and Don McKellar – were recognized for their extraordinary contributions to Canadian culture and for continuing the visionary work of CFC founder Norman Jewison.

From a glittering red carpet reception to a dynamic seated dinner, the gala featured unforgettable moments of celebration, storytelling, and community.

CFC Gala 2025 Electrifying Entertainment

The entertainment lineup was a showstopper. Fly Lady Di (Diana Reyes), a Toronto-born multidisciplinary artist, lit up the night with her genre-defying talent as a DJ, dancer, and painter. Having performed for global giants like Dior, Tiffany & Co., Jay-Z’s D’Usse Cognac, and Rihanna’s Fenty, she brought her unmistakable flair to the CFC stage.

Equally captivating was Kevin Hamdan, hailed as Toronto’s Top Mentalist, whose mind-bending performance left guests questioning what’s possible. His blend of psychology, suggestion, and illusion turned the evening into a true spectacle of wonder.

Leading the Way in Canadian Film & TV

The gala was co-chaired by Neishaw Ali (CEO and Executive Producer of SPIN VFX and Chair of the CFC Board) and Magali Simard (Director of Industry & Community Relations at Cinespace Studios). Their visionary leadership continues to elevate the CFC’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and future-forward innovation in Canada’s screen industries.

Under the theme “Growing Futures”, this year’s gala spotlighted the transformational impact of CFC’s programs, from the Norman Jewison Film Program and CBC Actors Conservatory, to exciting new initiatives like the Comedy Story Room Intensive and the Hair & Makeup Intensive. These dynamic programs are producing over 2,200 alumni who are shaping today’s screen landscape across Canada and around the globe.

CFC Gala 2025 – Investing in Creative Futures

CFC Executive Director maxine bailey reminded guests of the night’s true purpose: “This is the time of year that we encourage those who are committed to financially supporting the next generation of creators to come out to help us ensure those brilliant visionaries get the opportunities they deserve.”

With continued fundraising, the CFC is poised to unlock even more doors for bold, diverse storytellers—and ensure Canada’s voice continues to shine on screens worldwide.

Support Canadian talent and explore more about the CFC’s groundbreaking initiatives at CFC Creates.