Leverage Lens Film + Art Festival Celebrated Third Year With Expanded Venue, Acclaimed Artists, And Six Women-Directed Documentary Films
Leverage Lens Film + Art Festival returned for its third year on Friday, May 15, 2026, bringing together filmmakers, photographers, visual artists, and community members for an evening centred on storytelling, human connection, and creativity.
This year marked the festival’s biggest edition yet, taking place at Henderson Brewing Co. (128 Sterling Rd.) and welcoming more artists, photographers, filmmakers, and attendees than ever before. The festival’s rapid growth over the past three years reflected the demand for accessible and community-driven creative spaces in Toronto.
Founded by Toronto filmmaker and communications creative Selina McCallum, Leverage Lens was created to bridge the gap between emerging and established artists by providing a platform where meaningful stories and artistic voices could be seen, heard, and celebrated.
A major highlight of this year’s festival was its film lineup: all six short documentary films screened at the festival were directed by women, showcasing powerful and diverse perspectives through documentary storytelling.
Featured films included SK8 LITE directed by (@mesonwokolo), i see myself in you directed by (@amreenk_), unhome directed by (@skeletonpics), Safety 1st directed by (@niccalvo), Handmade Film directed by (@stina), and Scarborough Stories directed by (@lensoflicia).
The festival also featured an exciting lineup of visual artists and photographers, including acclaimed Toronto artist, Oliviana Cinco, who recently won Best in Show at this year’s Artist Project and displayed her work at the festival.
Returning for the second consecutive year was celebrated Toronto artist, Nashid Chroma, widely recognized for his striking floral celebrity portrait paintings that have captured attention across the city and online.
Award-winning Scarborough photographer, Anthony Gebrehiwot, also returned for the third consecutive year, continuing his longstanding involvement with the festival by showcasing his photography work.
The festival also featured work from Scarborough photographer, Jober Guevarra, whose portfolio includes photographing artists and cultural icons such as Drake, Central Cee, and J.Cole. His participation brought iconic photography to the festival, including images of Drake on his It's All A Blur tour and Kobe Bryant at his final All-Star Game in Toronto in 2016.
The festival was hosted once again by media personality and moderator, Kadiatu Barrie, who returned for her third consecutive year as host.
In addition, community organizations including Canadian Film Equipment, RISE Edutainment, NIA Centre, CEE Centre, FOFS, Ever Slate Production, and Street Voices shared resources, opportunities, and information with attendees throughout the evening.
Festival activations also included a photobooth experience by RSB&CO and a vintage television installation presented by Vintage and Props for attendees to enjoy throughout the night. Food and beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options were available for purchase from Henderson Brewing Co.
The festival’s growth was also supported by a strong network of community partners, media partners, and sponsors. Sponsors for this year’s festival included:
• DAYO Media and Communications Inc. — Platinum Sponsor
• Misasi Legal — Gold Sponsor
• Gangalee — Silver Sponsor
• WIFT+ and Nashid Chroma — Giveaway Sponsor
• BIPOC TV and Film and Oddside Arts — Community Partners
Leverage Lens Film + Art Festival continued to prioritize accessibility, representation, and authentic storytelling by creating space for artists at different stages of their careers to connect directly with audiences.
For media inquiries, interviews, or future festival opportunities, please contact:
Selina McCallum
Founder & Director, Leverage Lens Film + Art Festival
