Are you a filmmaker passionate about storytelling, culture, and the art of cinema? The Durham Region International Black and Diversity Film Festival (DRIBDFF) is your perfect stage. Here’s why you should submit your film and attend our event:

Celebrate Black & Diverse Creativity with PANEL DISCUSSIONS.

DRIBDFF is more than just a film festival; it’s a celebration of Black and diverse creativity. As a nonprofit festival held annually, it provides a welcoming and supportive environment that shines a spotlight on the unique perspectives and artistry of Black & diverse filmmakers. Your voice matters, and this is your opportunity to share your narrative with an audience eager to connect with your vision.

Engaging WORKSHOPS for Growth with selected experiences facilitators

The festival isn’t just about showcasing films—it’s about fostering growth. DRIBDFF features interactive workshops designed specifically for Black and diverse creators. These sessions are led by industry experts and tailored to provide insights, tools, and inspiration to help you elevate your craft and advance your career.

Amplify Your Voice Globally with our rich CREAM OF INVITED DISTRIBUTORS and other stake holders during FILM BUSINESS SESSION.

DRIBDFF provides a platform for Black and diverse filmmakers to tell their stories to audiences both locally and worldwide. By submitting your film, you gain the chance to have your work viewed by industry professionals, peers, and cinephiles who value and celebrate diverse perspectives. Expand your reach and make an impact that transcends borders.

Honor Cultural Heritage Through Film and CULTURAL PRESENTATIONS during the festival.

Films submitted to DRIBDFF not only entertain but also serve as a bridge to understanding and appreciating cultural heritage. The festival honors Black perspectives by providing a space for filmmakers to share their narratives authentically and unapologetically. Whether it’s history, identity, or contemporary issues, your work can contribute to a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences.

Build Connections and Community from our DIVERSE SESSIONS

At DRIBDFF, you’ll find a vibrant community of like-minded creators, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts who share a passion for storytelling. Whether through networking events, panel discussions, or casual conversations, the festival offers countless opportunities to forge meaningful connections that can propel your career forward.

Submit Your Film Today

Don’t miss the chance to be part of a movement that uplifts, celebrates, and amplifies diverse voices. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or an established artist, DRIBDFF is the place to showcase your talent, connect with a supportive community, and make a lasting impact.

Join us at DRIBDFF where stories that matter take center stage.

Awards & Prizes

Durham Regional International Black and Diversity Film Festival (DRIBDFF) Award Trophy

The Durham Regional International Black and Diversity Film Festival (DRIBDFF) takes pride in recognizing and celebrating outstanding achievements in filmmaking through its prestigious award trophies. These trophies are designed to honor the creativity, dedication, and talent of filmmakers who bring diverse perspectives to life on screen.

Design of the Trophy

The DRIBDFF award trophy embodies the spirit of diversity, inclusion, and excellence in filmmaking. It features:

A sleek and modern design that symbolizes the power of storytelling.

A globe element representing the festival’s international reach and the universality of film as a medium.

Certificates issued to winners to further commemorate their achievements.

Cultural motifs and patterns celebrating Black heritage and diverse traditions.

An evening of celebration with cocktails to honor the winners and their accomplishments.

A sturdy base engraved with the recipient’s name, the award category, and the festival year.

Award Categories

The trophies are presented across several categories, including but not limited to:

Best Feature Film

Best Short Film

Best Documentary

Best Director

Best Actor/Actress

Best Screenplay

Audience Choice Award

Emerging Filmmaker Award

And many more...

Each award is a testament to the recipient’s exceptional contribution to the world of cinema and their dedication to amplifying diverse voices.

Significance of the Trophy

Winning a DRIBDFF trophy is more than just a symbol of success; it’s an acknowledgment of the filmmaker’s role in shaping narratives that inspire, educate, and entertain. It serves as a lasting reminder of their achievement and the impact of their work on audiences locally and globally.

Award Ceremony

The DRIBDFF trophies are presented during the festival’s grand awards ceremony, a night filled with celebration, applause, and recognition of excellence in film. This prestigious event brings together filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts to honor the transformative power of storytelling.

Join us at DRIBDFF to witness the magic of diverse stories and celebrate the brilliance of filmmakers who dare to dream and create.

Rules & Terms

Submission Guidelines

DRIBDFF General Rules and Regulations for Submission:

World Premiere Status

All projects must retain world premiere status leading up to the festival day. Projects must not have had theatrical screenings available to the general public unless the submitted version has undergone significant changes from its original.

Country-Specific Eligibility

To qualify for a country-specific category, at least 50% of the project’s funding must originate from within the specified country.

Copyright and Trademark Authorization

The applicant is responsible for obtaining authorization for any copyrighted or trademarked content or materials included in the project. The Durham Region International Black & Diversity Film Festival (DRIBDFF) will not be held liable for the inclusion of unauthorized content or materials.

Any third-party claims of copyright or trademark infringement may result in disqualification without a refund. DRIBDFF, its representatives, and affiliates are free from liability, including fees or expenses, arising from such claims.

Legal Clearance

The applicant is responsible for clearing the project’s content of any actual or potential legal claims. DRIBDFF, its representatives, and affiliates are not liable for any such claims, including fees or expenses. Any third-party claims may result in disqualification without a refund.

Re-Submission Policy

Projects previously submitted are eligible for re-submission only if they have undergone significant changes from their originally submitted version.

Subtitles Requirement

Projects with significant non-English dialogue must include on-screen English subtitles. Failure to provide subtitles may result in disqualification without a refund.

File Submission Format

All project files must be submitted via direct digital upload or by providing a Vimeo or YouTube link on the applicant’s FilmFreeway project page.

Submission Status

The applicant must ensure their project’s submission status on FilmFreeway is listed as “In Consideration” by 11:59 PM on the deadline date. Submissions past the deadline may be considered for a subsequent deadline window if applicable.

By following these guidelines, you ensure that your submission meets the necessary criteria for consideration at DRIBDFF.
3 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Alicia Michele Benjamin

    I was so honored and thrilled that the DRIBDFF selected my film, "Dreams Float Around Us, as part of its 2025 festival. To know that filmmakers and film lovers in Canada selected my film about Black women in Charlotte, NC, to highlight, makes me ultra proud. And the icing on the cake was that the good people at the DRIBDFF chose me as the Best Female Director. Thank you so much for these blessings. I know your future film festivals will continue to grow and prosper.

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • Prisca Ogouma

    A wonderful experience with Durham Region International Film Festival.
    Communication was warm and professional, and I truly appreciated the recognition for my work.
    Thank you for supporting independent filmmakers and giving space to diverse voices.
    I’m honored to have been part of the 2025 edition.

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • AKEEM OGUNMILADE

    DRIBDFF is what a 21st-century diversity festival should look like: youth-driven, ticket-accessible, artist-funded, and regionally anchored. It does not beg for seat at someone else’s table; it builds a new table, paints it black, and invites the entire postcode. If the programmers can secure stable municipal funding—Durham Region council, take note—this festival will outgrow Oshawa within three years and become Ontario’s essential midwinter pilgrimage for global Black cinema.
    Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars

    December 2025
    Helpful