Visit to Wapikoni Mobile

Her Excellency Sharon Johnston visited Wapikoni Mobile in Montréal on March 21, 2016. During her discussion with Aboriginal filmmakers and film producers, she learned how Wapikoni Mobile is also an outlet for Aboriginal youth to combat isolation and suicide, and to express their thoughts on issues faced by First Nations while developing artistic, technical, social and professional skills and resilience.

Wapikoni Mobile was founded in 2004 by filmmaker Manon Barbeau along with the Council of the Atikamekw Nation and the Youth Council First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (currently known as First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Youth Network). Since its initial stages, the non-profit organization has provided mentorship and training in audiovisual creation and filmmaking to 3 800 Aboriginal youths in Canada in the hopes of creating jobs and educational opportunities in the film industry and countering high rates of suicide, drop-out and addiction.

This mobile studio, equipped with cutting-edge technology, is a place of assembly and intervention, as well as audiovisual and musical creation for First Nations youth. It has produced over 870 short films and 500 musical recordings throughout visits to 30 communities from nine different First Nations. Through its educational workshops and film screenings, it raises awareness and educates the wider public about issues faced by Aboriginal communities.

Inside the Wapikoni Mobile, Mrs. Johnston had some fun in the recording studio.