There is perhaps no art form with a greater social impact than film – and the film festival is its stirring epicentre. In this course, students will be introduced to the importance of film as a window into a culture and film festivals' role in providing platforms for those advocating change.

This course includes three unique experiences that will add to each student's immersion and understanding of the role that art forms such as film have in promoting social change. First, a symposium where students learn from industry experts about filmmaking and film festivals. Then, a visit to the Peter Higdon Research Centre, where we explore Panama's history through the Black Star Collection. Finally, the international travel experience in Panama offers students direct contact with the region and the creators who bring their stories to cinematic life.

“Films for Change: Film Festivals and Activism in Hispanic Culture” course is a part of Toronto Metropolitan University’s Global Justice and Change (GJC) program. GJC invites students to explore topics on a global scale -from film and migration to gender and agriculture- using an equity and justice-oriented lens.

GJC provides fully funded global opportunities. This means that all participants receive funding to cover the cost of tuition, travel, accommodation, and other key expenses relevant to the course.

Applications to the GJC program are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who self-identify as Indigenous, Black, or racialized, students with disabilities, and low-income students.