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Curtis Pilon-Vinish
Indigenous Film Expert, Cultural Advocate, Founder
Curtis (he/him) is based in Long Plain.
Their identities and lived-experience qualifications are a crucial contributor to their expertise. These are some that they identify with:
Here's the dynamic range of services they offer with Future Ancestors Services:
This is just a glimpse of the incredible breadth of subject-matter expertise they bring to the table:
Photo provided by Curtis
As a proud member of the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan, Curtis Pilon-Vinish is dedicated to amplifying Indigenous voices across all sectors. He is the Founder and CEO of the Indigenous Futures Film Academy (IFFA), an organization providing culturally grounded education, mentorship, and advanced resources for Indigenous filmmakers across Turtle Island.
With a professional background spanning land-based education, media research, and governance consulting, Curtis has contributed to significant initiatives in both policy and film. His work with the Avatar Alliance Foundation involved assessing the state of Indigenous film education, while consulting with the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) focused on language revitalization and policy development.
Currently, he is producing a docuseries on Indigenous language revitalization, bridging his expertise in education and filmmaking to ensure these stories are preserved and celebrated. His on-screen experience includes a role in Disney’s Prey (2022), a groundbreaking project that reinforced his commitment to advocating for Indigenous representation in the film industry.
Through IFFA, Curtis is working to dismantle systemic barriers that have historically excluded Indigenous filmmakers, creating pathways for emerging talent to thrive. Whether through land-based education, consulting, or film production, his work is deeply rooted in the belief that Indigenous stories must be told…
We can assure you, they're worth getting to know.
Photos provided by Curtis
How does their lived experience shape their qualification?
As a Métis filmmaker, educator, and cultural advocate, my lived experience deeply informs my work and approach to service delivery. My identity and journey have shaped my understanding of Indigenous storytelling, cultural representation, and systemic challenges within the film and media industry.
I have witnessed firsthand the barriers that Indigenous creatives face in accessing industry opportunities, funding, and mentorship. This experience inspired me to found the Indigenous Futures Film Academy (IFFA), an initiative dedicated to breaking these barriers and creating sustainable pathways for Indigenous talent in film and media. My work is guided by traditional knowledge, community-centred storytelling, and a commitment to ethical representation.
My lived experience isn’t just a part of my qualifications—it is the foundation of my work. It ensures that everything I do is driven by a deep personal connection to Indigenous communities and a responsibility to uplift, educate, and create change.
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"Curtis Pilon-Vinish is a visionary leader in Indigenous storytelling and film education. His commitment to empowering Indigenous creatives through the Indigenous Futures Film Academy has made a lasting impact on emerging talent in the industry.
Curtis brings not only expertise but also a deep understanding of cultural responsibility and mentorship, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard, respected, and uplifted. His ability to bridge traditional knowledge with contemporary media makes him an invaluable speaker and advocate for change."
Matt LeMay, CEO at Indigenous Geographic
Here’s a snapshot of how they bring stories, strategies, and meaningful change to each audience.
Curtis Pilon-Vinish offers dynamic speaking engagements, workshops, and consulting services that center Indigenous storytelling, media, and education. As a dedicated advocate for Indigenous representation, cultural integrity, and systemic change, he brings lived experience and professional expertise to conversations that inspire action.
Whether addressing film industry development, decolonizing education, or advancing reconciliation, Curtis’s approach is rooted in mentorship, advocacy, and tangible solutions. His sessions are designed for educators, filmmakers, organizations, and institutions looking to engage meaningfully with Indigenous knowledge and voices.
Speaker Highlight
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Curtis lives in Long Plains First Nation.
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