Gender Equity in Media Society

Gender Equity in Media Society Vancouver (GEMS) is a Canada-based, not-for-profit organization — formerly known as Women in Film and Television Vancouver — dedicated to transforming the screen-based media industry through equity, inclusion, and professional opportunity. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, GEMS works to dismantle systemic barriers and support the advancement of women and gender-diverse creators and media professionals across Canada.

Mission & Purpose

At its core, GEMS advocates for equal opportunities in funding, employment, promotion, and creative recognition for women, non-binary individuals, and gender-diverse people within film and television. Their mission encompasses advocacy, mentorship, community building, and professional development — all aimed at creating a more representative and inclusive screen industry.

GEMS is a proud member of a global network of media-equity organizations, and supports an intersectional approach, acknowledging overlapping identities and aiming to uplift creatives across gender, race, economic background, and geography.

What GEMS Offers to Filmmakers & Industry Professionals

Mentorship & Educational Programming: GEMS delivers low-barrier, accessible professional-development opportunities, including workshops, talks, and mentorship programs to help emerging and established creators advance their careers.

Community & Networking: Members gain access to an active community via the GEMS Member Directory, connecting them with peers, collaborators, and industry professionals across roles — from producers and directors to editors, cinematographers, and support staff. gemsvancouver.org+1

Annual Film Festival – GEMFest: GEMS produces GEMFest, a major international film festival spotlighting the work of women and gender-diverse filmmakers from around the world. GEMFest includes screenings, panels, pitch forums, networking events, and an international screenplay competition — offering creators a powerful platform to showcase work and connect with industry players.

Advocacy & Industry Change: GEMS works to influence equity in hiring, funding, and representation — addressing systemic inequities in funding distribution, hiring practices, and access to opportunity within the Canadian screen industry.

Why GEMS Matters for FilmTeam.ca Members

For filmmakers, producers, and production teams across Canada, partnering with or engaging with GEMS can offer real benefits:

Access to Underrepresented Talent: If you’re seeking diverse voices — women, non-binary, BIPOC, intersectional creators — GEMS is a strong network to draw collaborators from.

Support for Inclusive Projects: GEMS’s commitment to representation and equity makes them a trusted ally when your project aims to reflect diverse stories, voices, and perspectives.

Professional Development & Growth: Whether you’re emerging or experienced, GEMS’s mentorship and educational resources help sharpen your craft, expand your network, and stay informed on industry best practices around equity and inclusion.

Festival & Showcase Opportunities: GEMFest offers a platform to screen work, get feedback, and connect with peers and decision-makers — a valuable stepping stone for independent films, shorts, or socially conscious projects.

How to Engage & Collaborate

FilmTeam.ca users can reach out to GEMS to:

Explore membership and join their community — open to all, including women, gender-diverse, non-binary creatives, as well as supportive allies.

Submit films, scripts or projects for GEMFest and benefit from submission and screening opportunities that spotlight marginalized and equity-seeking voices.

Partner or collaborate on inclusive productions, leveraging GEMS’s network for staffing, mentorship, or outreach support.

Tap into professional development resources — workshops, panels, mentorship — to strengthen your production, writing, or directing practice in an equity-focused environment.