BIPOC Women in The Nova Scotian Cinema: Challenges, Triumphs, and the Road Ahead

Black women in Nova Scotia’s film industry have long been powerful storytellers, cultural preservers, and creative forces shaping the province’s cinematic landscape. Yet, their contributions have often been met with systemic barriers, limited representation, and struggles for funding and recognition.

This compelling discussion delves into the unique challenges faced by Black women in Nova Scotian cinema—past and present. From navigating industry gatekeeping to finding spaces for authentic storytelling, we explore the resilience and innovation that have propelled them forward.

MODERATOR:

Martina Kelades - ACTOR

Martina Kelades is a versatile and captivating Canadian actress from Halifax, Nova Scotia, who has made a unique entrance into the industry. Since launching her acting career in 2021, she has appeared in various productions, including feature films, TV series, and commercials. Most notably, Martina had a guest role on MGM+\'s hit series FROM and was nominated for a 2024 Screen Nova Scotia Award for Outstanding Performance for her role in the Bell Fibe series Trapped. Her credits also include Christmas Island (Hallmark), Diggstown (CBC), and Trapped (web series), among other projects in film and TV.

Beyond the screen, Martina is an active member of ACTRA, Screen Nova Scotia, and Women in Film & Television – Atlantic (WIFT-AT), where she serves on the board. Passionate about diversity and inclusion, she advocates for increased representation of underrepresented voices in scripts, casting, and production. She actively engages in industry conversations and initiatives supporting BIPOC performers and creatives. A storyteller at heart, Martina also merges her background in mental health and wellness with her work in film and TV. As a professional speaker and podcast host, she is committed to creating meaningful, authentic, and impactful narratives that inspire connection and change.

SPEAKERS:

SHYLA WRIGHT - Actor, Model

Shyla was born and raised in Halifax Nova Scotia. She’s an ACTRA actor, model, wife, and homeschooling Mom. After many years of work in the medical field, she transitioned into acting in 2020. She’s had principal roles in CBC\'s Diggstown, and Netflix\'s Moonshine, and appeared in several commercials. She also enjoys serving in ministry at her church because her faith, and love for Christ is what most defines who she is.

Stephanie Joline - Writer/Director/Producer

Stephanie Joline is an Indigenous filmmaker living in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Her work spans multiple genres, with stories that provoke conversation, break boundaries, and are deeply rooted in inclusivity and feminism. She has credits in TV, film, documentary, and scripted work.

Shalan Joudry - Multi-Disciplinary Artist

Shalan Joudry is an award-winning multi-disciplinary artist working as a writer, oral storyteller, podcast producer, theatre director, and ecologist. Returning to her love of cinema, Welima’q, her first short film, premiered at TIFF and won Best Short Doc at AIFF. shalan lives and learns in Bear River First Nation.