MISAFF 2026 SYMPOSIUM returns for a second year supported by the Canadian Media Fund and Telefilm Canada on the 1st of October 2026 (10 AM -4 PM). The symposium will focus on unscripted series, feature documentary and content creation. The symposium features panelists from the CBC, Telefilm Canada, CMF, Ontario Creates, the Canada Council for the Arts, ACTRA, DGC, and WGC.

• SYMPOSIUM – SCHEDULE
  Date: October 1, 2026
  Location: Living Arts Centre, Mississauga (In-Person)

  The MISAFF Symposium is presented by the Canadian Media Fund (CMF) and Telefilm Canada. This year, we are focusing on unscripted features and series and here is what's on the agenda:
  
  ROUNDTABLE SESSION: WORKING WITH BROADCASTERS, UNIONS & ASSOCIATIONS
  This two-hour session offers intimate, small-group conversations with key decision-makers from Canada's broadcasting, funding, and production landscape. Each roundtable will run for 20 minutes, allowing participants to rotate and connect with multiple tables throughout the session. CBC, Bell Media, CMF, CMPA (TBD), ACTRA, and the DGC will be participating.
  
  MISAFF CHAT WITH HAMZA HAQ
  Hamza Haq is a Canadian actor best known for his leading role as Bashir Hamed in the medical drama series Transplant, which earned him three consecutive Canadian Screen Awards (2021, 2022, 2023). Join us for an intimate conversation about his career, his craft, and the evolving landscape for actors in Canadian television.
  
  COURAGEOUS FILMMAKING
  A global exploration of production challenges, inspirations, and opportunities in South Asia and North Africa.
  
  Panelists:
  - Mo Naqvi & Bilal Sami – Oscar-nominated filmmakers (Hanging By A Wire), and Sarmad Khoosat – Director (Lali, Circus of Life), discussing filmmaking in Pakistan
  - Gurvinder Singh – Director (Rehmat) and Nisha Pahuja – Director (To Kill a Tiger), discussing shooting in India and village life as inspiration
  - Richard Duquette – Producer, discussing filmmaking in Algeria as a new destination for exploration

Discounted Symposium Pass Offer:
A Symposium Pass is available for $100.

SACFF Member Rate:
Members of the South Asian Canadian Filmmakers Federation (SACFF) can get a 20% discount until September 25th, 2026.

Get Your Tickets:

• For Festival Passes, Symposium registration, and non-LAC screenings:

• For all screenings at the Living Arts Centre (LAC):

THE MISAFF SYMPOSIUM PASS INCLUDES:

• 1 ticket to each event at the MISAFF SYMPOSIUM on 1st October 2026.

• 1 invitation to private event with filmmakers and film funders.

The symposium takes place at the Screening Room in the Living Arts Centre, Mississauga on the 1st of October 2026.