Weengushk Film Institute (WFI), focuses on media arts and education, and is located on Manitoulin Island. WFI is a non-profit, charitable organization established by Dr. Shirley Cheechoo C.M. in 2002.

"To Create a Reality for the Dreamer”

Through an understanding of tradition, culture and identity, Weengushk Film Institute (WFI) advances the collection, preservation and representation of new creative voices. The development and recognition of Indigenous youth, at WFI, supports the important contribution of Indigenous stories to the Canadian arts landscape. While celebrating and sharing their voices, these emerging Indigenous artists learn market leading and life skills, as they begin their path towards inspired and sustainable futures.

WFI is the first program of its kind to be certified by a Canadian University, and proud of their partnership with Brock University. WFI’s goal is to train, develop, guide and mentor young emerging artists to develop their creative skills and attain a level of professionalism that promotes self-sustainability in a competitive market. By merging traditional culture with youthful energy and modern technology, WFI ensures that culture is not just curated, but animated in the everyday existence of everyone who experiences the expression of our students. WFI is an innovative and entrepreneurial response to an identified and documented absence of training opportunities for Aboriginal and youth of diversity in Northern Canada and within Canada.

Since 1988, Shirley Cheechoo has confronted First Nations issues with her own work and as the founding member of Debajehmujig Theatre Group. The Truth and Reconciliation exists because artists, like Shirley Cheechoo are determined to heighten awareness of Canada's First Nations issues and culture.

Your donations provide the best environment for our participants by supporting:

• Student bursaries and scholarships
• Our networking capacity while building stronger partnerships
• Investment in the WFI Building
• The aquisition of production and post-production equipment
• Building on-site residential building for students and instructors

By the Numbers

Since 2007, WFI has trained over 300 participants from a variety of programs. We have a proven track record! EIGHTY PERCENT of WFI graduates are working in the media-arts! Twenty percent have returned to secondary school and post-secondary education. A Certificate in Film Production from Weengushk is now fully accredited by Brock University.

Make a Donation

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE by donating to WFI! Please support us on the path towards a sustainable future for First Nations youth. Help us to open doors so that First Nations youth as well as youth from diverse backgrounds, can succeed with a meaningful career in Canada's expanding film and television industry!

WFI welcomes your support! Your help and contribution to Weengushk Film Institute will support year-round programming, fund events, and provide our participants with the necessary tools they need to succeed.