Small films. Big voices. Fearless beginnings. This dynamic BC Student and Youth Showcase spotlights 12 emerging filmmakers whose work tackles identity, justice, mental health, belonging, ambition, and self-discovery with striking honesty and creative range. From animation and satire to intimate drama and documentary, these are stories from a generation learning how to speak — and choosing what matters most when they do. Featured Films & Filmmakers: Grain (BC Premiere) — Directed by Ilana Zackon An award-winning animated short exploring disordered eating through bold metaphor. Winner of the Toon Boom Award at Fantasia International Film Festival. E for Effort, Never Excellence (BC Premiere) — Directed by Sarah Shahab A sharp and emotional return-home story about journalism, loyalty, and the cost of truth. Humanity Over Hate (World Premiere) — Directed by Zara P. Bharadwaj A timely and hopeful look at how acts of kindness can bridge deep social divides. Through the Flow of Summer Snow — Directed by Sophia Santos A visually layered coming-of-age story navigating adolescence, illness, and emotional instability. Fallen (World Premiere) — Directed by Angela Ruohan Yan A tender and intimate reflection on young love and memory. Black Chador (BC Premiere) — Directed by Elyana Moradi A diasporic Persian woman reconnects with faith and family legacy through cultural symbolism. Always Forever (BC Premiere) — Directed by Tibet Karayazgan A portrait of ambition and survival as a young law student balances financial strain and aspiration. Selected for the VIFF Catalyst Cohort. Drafting (Canadian Premiere) — Directed by Janshin Soo A minimalist and relatable story about perfectionism and the anxiety of getting it “just right.” Best Friends Notice of Deportation (Surrey Premiere) — Directed by Berenika Widera A moving story of friendship tested by immigration realities. All That Lies Beneath (BC Premiere) — Directed by Ella McCleary A haunting exploration of grief, memory, and blurred realities. Quenched (BC Premiere) — Directed by Ben Mark Hart Fieldhouse A sharp satire examining corporate ritual and generational cycles of burnout. Together, these films showcase remarkable talent from British Columbia and beyond — bold, urgent, and deeply personal. Questions and Answers with attending filmmakers to be followed after the screening.