The stunning Canadian Rockies provided the perfect backdrop for the 2026 Banff World Media Festival (BANFF), where DSO Executive Director Winnie Luk spent four days (June 14-17) meeting with industry partners, broadcasters, funders, and accessibility leaders while continuing to advance the DSO's mission of building a more accessible and inclusive Canadian screen industry.

Thanks to the generous support of Ontario Creates, On Screen Manitoba, and BANFF, Winnie was joined at the festival by two delegates supported by the DSO. Heather Taylor and Tom Sinclair benefited from numerous networking opportunities throughout the event, connecting with industry leaders, broadcasters, producers, and fellow creators. They also attended a breakfast with Winnie and CBC Executive Director, Business & Rights and Production Sustainability, Lisa Clarkson.

“It was an amazing experience to go and meet people in the film industry and get experience through this opportunity of a lifetime. I would definitely go back anytime. The scenery was beautiful and some of panels were very good to get information and tips for me as a filmmaker. “

— Tom Sinclair

"If it wasn't for the DSO, I wouldn't have been able to attend the Banff World Media Festival. Because of their support, I had the chance to meet with new producers, filmmakers, and industry partners as well as reconnect with execs I haven't seen in person in a long time. It was a fantastic opportunity for me to pitch my work and to continue to grow as a filmmaker. I'm already having conversations about new projects because of the connections I made while I was there, which is a fantastic result! I left the festival feeling excited about new possibilities ahead, which, in a time that feels challenging for creators, gave me hope! Thank you to the DSO for all that you are doing to help elevate disabled creators. Opportunities like this are life-changing!"

— Heather Taylor

One of the world's leading media events, BANFF brought together creators, executives, producers, distributors, streamers, policymakers, and funders from around the globe to discuss the future of screen-based storytelling. This year's festival welcomed high-profile speakers and guests, including the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages.

Throughout the festival, Winnie also met with disabled creatives and with existing and prospective partners and funders to strengthen relationships and explore new opportunities for collaboration. 

In 2026, we were proud to continue to support BANFF's accessibility efforts through our Screen Festival Accessibility Program. This edition of the festival featured a range of accessibility measures, including ASL interpretation for selected sessions, captioning, wheelchair accessible washrooms, a Hush Hub, companion passes for support persons, and dedicated accessibility support for attendees.