Over the course of 2025 Javelin Laurence, Spindle Films Foundation’ Director of Industry Training, developed gender diversity training specifically for the film industry. With the support of the Government of Alberta’s Community Initiatives Program and the Canadian Media Foundation’ Changing Narratives grant we were able to pilot this training in the first half of 2026. During that time we connected with more than 150 film professionals across the country through our hybrid approach to expanding gender diversity knowledge in the film industry as a whole. We ran two iterations of our experiential workshop, both in person in Calgary and virtually for professionals across the country. We are proud to have partnered with The University of Calgary Psychology department to research the efficacy of this pilot program.

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During our pilot project it became clear that there is a need to implement this kind of training for productions that are working with gender diverse individuals. The Foundation is now pleased to offer two brief courses that we have titled Gender Diversity 101 and Gender Diversity 102. These courses are foundational in nature and suitable for everyone from beginner to committed ally, Gender Diversity 101 is an online, asynchronous course for individuals that builds a firm foundation of knowledge for working with gender diverse filmmakers. Gender Diversity 102 is an experiential workshop available both in-person or virtual that builds on the foundation with skills practice and personalization.

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This training initiative is now available for booking for your production, union, or organization.

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Download our information pamphlet here to learn more! 

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If you have any questions or would like to discuss booking and cost details you can contact us at info@spindlefilmsfoundation.com.