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THE POD

The SMI Pod Program is a part-time paid adventure in building the skillset and toolbox of an impact producer. The goal is to create an understanding of the power and importance of impact campaigns for documentary films, and to endow participants with the necessary skills to design and execute impact strategies. The Pod also works alongside SMI staff to apply their learning directly on active projects and campaigns. This six month long program includes a weeklong in-person residency, and a three month practicum term in support of projects on SMI’s slate.

 
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MEET THE 2023 POD

 
 

Sonya Lee

Victoria, BC

Sonya Lee is a producer/director and science communicator focusing on stories that intersect science, nature, people and culture. She is currently producing, directing, and writing a 44min broadcast episode for the CBC Nature of Things on great white sharks in Canada. Previously, she was the Science Producer for Ocean School, an ocean education media project of the National Film Board of Canada, and has produced over a 100 media pieces including short documentaries, 360 videos, multimedia interactives, and AR/VR experiences from Canada's Atlantic coast and Pacific coasts, Australia and Indonesia. She has a background in Marine Biology and International Development Studies and you will find her frequently in the ocean as an avid diver and fish nerd.

sadaf khajeh

North York, ON

Sadaf Khajeh (she/her) is an Iranian-Canadian artist with a background in visual design, photography, and film. She holds a master’s degree in Documentary Media from Toronto Metropolitan University, for which she was awarded the Graduate Toronto Metropolitan Gold Medal. Sadaf is passionate about participating in and promoting cross-cultural dialogues that can help empower communities. She does so through continually working with organizations such as Tirgan Centre for Art and Culture, Pleasure Dome, and The Shoe Project.

David youn

Calgary, AB

David Youn is a photographer and community builder based out of Calgary, Alberta. His passion for connecting with local artists has produced a magazine, podcast, art shows, and panel discussions to help promote creativity and public discourse. His goal is to get more people with diverse interests and beliefs to share their experiences, strengths, and hope!

 
 

libin ahmed

Toronto, ON

Libin Ahmed is a student, writer and poet. She is a lover of all forms of art and uses art to challenge prejudice in her professional work. She has a Social Service Work diploma and is pursuing a degree in Child and Youth Care.

Ian Mackichan

Victoria, BC

Ian MacKichan is a film enthusiast with over a decade of diverse business experience, ranging from startups to large public entities. He is thrilled to bring his expertise in marketing, fundraising, business analysis, and development to the POD as an impact producer. With his experience as a former fundraiser for an enrichment program aimed at at-risk youth, Ian understands the significant commitment required from an entire community to create sustained and meaningful change. He is an advocate for public-private partnerships, social enterprise models, and conscious consumerism. Ian views documentary films as a powerful tool for igniting conversations that can align diverse stakeholders around shared goals and inspire action towards social and environmental progress.

 
 

PROGRAM FUNDERS