GEMFest - Gender Equity in Media Festival

All films submitted must have a woman or gender-diverse Writer and/or Director, in addition to at least two women or gender-diverse creatives from the following six key creative roles: Producer, Cinematographer, Editor, Composer, Lead Performer and Production Designer.

• The same creative may fill more than one role.
• If any of the three eligible roles are shared (such as between two co-directors), they must be shared by women or gender-diverse creatives, except for the producer role, where 50% of the producers must be women or gender diverse.
• Films must reflect these credits in their submitted material, including in the credits of the film.

Gender-diverse is an umbrella term used to encompass transgender, non-binary, two-spirit, gender non-conforming individuals. If you are not sure whether your film is eligible based on your gender expression, please feel free to contact us for clarification.

Films completed after March 2024 are eligible.

Should the submitted film not adhere to this eligibility requirement or the following rules and terms, GEMS retains the right to disqualify said film and is not obligated to contact the submitting party or refund the submission fee.

GEMFest accepts documentary, narrative, animated and experimental films (including music and dance films) in any genre and any length.

Please inform us if your film has had a theatrical release in Vancouver prior to the festival as this may affect your eligibility for screening.

Films that have received other forms of distribution, such as subscriber television or online platforms, are eligible.

GEMFest and our producing organization, Gender Equity in Media Society Vancouver, are committed to increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our programming. Demographic questions are asked to help us understand and serve you, our filmmaking community, better.

We do not share your information with third parties.

Selection and Notification:

1. Submissions will be reviewed by a selection of judges appointed by the staff and Board of Directors of Gender Equity in Media Society Vancouver.

2. Filmmakers will be notified of the decision by the end of January 2026. Filmmakers will have to confirm or decline their participation in the festival after notification.

3. All communications will be sent electronically, including selection and notification letters. Please make sure the email address and phone number provided as the submission contact on the entry form are correct.

4. Promotional materials of films selected for GEMFest 2026 become the property of GEMFest 2026 and can be used to promote GEMFest 2026 in all media, including film, television, radio, print, and the Internet