Two communities on Haida Gwaii welcomed the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival (VIMFF) last week, with screenings that blended cultural performance, youth leadership, and mountain adventure storytelling.
The events were part of the Best of the Fest Mentorship Program, supported locally by Haida Gwaii Recreation. Organizers say the goal was not just to showcase films but to give young people a chance to step forward, build skills, and connect through community events.
In HlGaagilda–Skidegate, the evening began with drum and song from Jenny Cross, grounding the program in local culture before a lineup of films took centre stage. Youth emcees kept the audience engaged, while the Skidegate Ladies Saints basketball team took on concessions and raffles.
In Gaw Tlagée–Old Massett, the Tlúu Xaada Naay Society welcomed guests with traditional dance and song. Local high school students Maurice and Wiija stepped confidently into the spotlight as emcees, while Junior Rangers supported set-up and take-down. The U13 Junior All Native basketball team managed the concession stand, turning the screening into a community effort with young people at its heart.
Behind the scenes, a committee of Mike, Jonathan, and Dwyer handled technical needs, sound, and film curation. Visiting guests included Ivan Hughes of VIMFF and Angela Heck of the Whistler Film Festival, with Hughes also capturing photos from the events. Funding and support came through VIMFF, the BC Arts Council, and the Canada Council for the Arts.
More than film screenings, the gatherings became proof of how cultural expression, sport, and art can converge to strengthen community life. The participation of so many youth groups stood out, from emcees to volunteers, and pointed toward a future where the next generation takes the lead in organizing and presenting cultural events.
Plans are already forming for next year. Organizers say they want to continue the VIMFF connection while giving young people the chance to run a festival of their own. Maurice and Wiija, who earned praise for their work as emcees, have already agreed to help.
