Board of Directors Election
Voting Ends Wednesday April 16th at 5pm
*** You must be an OSIF Member to vote ***.
If you are not on our Crew List, you are not an OSIF Member. Sign up to become a member Here.
OSIF Members will vote in Four people to join the three existing 2nd-year term board members, to serve on the 2025/26 Board of Directors. See the Nominee's Bios Below
Board of Directors NomineesChoose 4 of the following nominees to represent OSIF in 2025/26 & 2026/27
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Nina Bournival
| **Incumbent OSIF Board Member and current OSIF Vice-President About For those of you who don’t know me that well, my career in film started after graduating from a 3 year acting program in Quebec in 2004. For over 20 years I have worked and volunteered in theatre, and film productions in a variety of roles that were either collaborative or leadership inclined. Since 2020 I have avidly pursued a professional career in film production as an Assistant Director. For my Indie film career, I have carried those AD skills to local projects, as well as lent myself as an Actor, and most recently have started to help produce several short films and music videos. Outside of film, my careers have been administrative work in Human Resources focusing on Health and Safety. Keeping people safe, happy, healthy and rising them up to their fullest potential is a cornerstone of my personality. Last, but most certainly not least, I have worked in the Non-Profit sector as an Administrator in the Girl Guides of Canada QC provincial office. This administrative work helps shape me into a well-rounded board member who brings a lot of functional experience to OSIF. I have served as a Director at Large for 2 years, and tin 2024I have held the Vice President position. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? If voted back in for another term my immediate focus will be succession planning. The board and I would develop a plan to set OSIF up for continued growth, and success, regardless of who is on the board or who is Executive Director. Already, the organization has grown during my current 2-year term (2023/24) and with that, one of my focusses has been bringing in more members to volunteer at events. This helps build direct interest and involvement in what the Society is doing and helps cultivate a pool of members that will be ready and willing to take on Board of Director roles as they become available. The board has forged a strong relationship with CATO and I would like to see that same growth with students at UBCO. Success in partnering with the film societies in Vancouver and Victoria has inspired a continued effort in collaborating with societies in Alberta and other eastern Canadian provinces, and I would love to continue that work. What is your long term vision for OSIF? My personal long-term vision for OSIF is to grow our membership, especially in areas of diversity. Being French Canadian I would like to specifically direct some energy into forging new relationships with local French communities. A secondary long term goal is to continue to bridge the gap between the vibrant Theatre Community that also exists in the Okanagan. Lastly, I envision a world where our partnership with Snakebite Film Festival in Penticton propels us into being household names and inspires other local cities to forge their own local film initiatives that OSIF can collaborate and support. |
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Zach Jones
| **Incumbent OSIF Board Member About Hello OSIF! Many of you already know me, but for those who don't, my name is Zach Jones, and I have been serving on the board of directors for OSIF for the past 2 years, and have been involved with OSIF for years before that. I don't often act as a face of OSIF, showing up in social media posts, as I prefer to work behind the scenes. It has been an incredible honour to serve OSIF, continuing on with events, Horror Fest, the Okanagan Screen Awards, and for the last 2 years, running the very successful Bloody Bootcamp workshop. I hope to continue on with helping bring forward these wonderful programs, as well as developing new and exciting contests, events, workshops, and meet ups should I be re-elected. I have over 20 years of experience working in both theatre and film, with film having been my primary source of income for the last 9 years. After much thought and deliberation, I recently decided to leave commercial film behind as a career so that I can dedicate more time to my family, making indie films with this amazing community, and of course to OSIF. I would never have gotten to where I am today if it wasn't for this truly beautiful and welcoming community of passionate artists. I love you all. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? Coming strong into 2025, OSIF is in a great position to expand on the resources we are able to provide to local film makers. I would like to see an increase in the number of workshops OSIF provides, create a mentorship program for young students looking to get into film making, increase our community involvement, and offer more grants to film makers. I would like to see OSIF truly become the go to for all local indie film makers in need. And as always, I would love to see the OSA's and Horror Fest get even bigger! What is your long term vision for OSIF? My long term goal for OSIF is to see it grow to the point of being well funded enough to have full time staff that have the sole purpose of supporting indie film makers. To be able to offer funding packages, more gear packages, and run a full spectrum of workshops and programs throughout the year catered to helping more and more local films get made. To see OSIF grow to the point of being able to offer scholarships to film students would be a truly wonderful thing. |
Amanda Arnason
| About Since participating in many OSIF short film contests I have fell in love with everything OSIF stands for. I went to school for media communications, I am currently a talent agent and I have worked in the film industry. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? Perhaps more of an attendance. More seats filled and to spread the word to those not in the industry to come see locally made films. What is your long term vision for OSIF? I love what it currently is. I think continuing to fund films like A Life's Worth etc that is so meaningful and supports new directors especially women and minorities. Making people more aware of what OSIF stands for and get out into the community. |
Emily Hardy
| About Emily Hardy has been an active member of the film and theatre community in the Okanagan since 2018, starting with stage acting before transitioning into film and television. Over the years, she's performed in more than a dozen theatre productions, worked as a stage manager, designed costumes and wardrobe, and acted in independent films and commercials. She's always enthusiastic for the opportunity to be creative, the process fuels her passion, and she's continually inspired by the incredible talent in our local industry. As a long-time Kelowna resident and OSIF member, Emily has had the privilege of volunteering at events like Horrorfest, attending screenings, and supporting local filmmakers. She's often the first to arrive and the last to leave at events, and she'd love the opportunity to contribute even more by serving as a Director at Large. She has extensive experience speaking to the public and her skills in communication, leadership, organization, and educational background—as well as her enthusiasm for learning new skills—makes her eager to help OSIF continue growing. Beyond acting, she has some experience in filmmaking both in front of and behind the camera, including writing, directing, acting and editing. Emily even completed her very own short film for the Snakebite Film Festival 5-Day Film Challenge 2024, entirely on her own! She's been called a creative wizard! Additionally, Emily's writing has been recognized both on stage and on screen. Her short play "Perfect Timing" was a finalist and performed at the Black Cat Cabaret 2023, and her script "Portal" won OSIF’s Déjà View Scriptwriting Contest 2024, with two local filmmaking groups bringing it to life—one version premiering at the Okanagan Screen Awards 2025. Emily is optimistic and excited for the chance to give back to the community that has given her so much and to help foster even more opportunities for Okanagan filmmakers and local creative talents. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? I’d love to see more fundraising events to help local filmmakers bring their visions to life. It would also be amazing to see the OSA’s expand into a two-day event, allowing even more local talent to be showcased and celebrated. I’m especially interested in seeing a greater variety of skill-focused workshops—not just for actors, but for all aspects of filmmaking: writing, lighting, make-up and special effects, camera work, pitching, and more. These hands-on, task-based learning opportunities could benefit both beginners looking to try something new and experienced artists wanting to deepen their craft. And maybe we could have a couple networking events that don’t take place in a pub to make things even more inclusive to all. What is your long term vision for OSIF? I believe that the long-term goal for OSIF is to foster a safe and collaborative environment where filmmakers can learn, create, and grow. OSIF aims to build a strong network of mentors and mentees, ensuring equal opportunities for filmmakers, cast, and crew to practice and refine their craft. A strong dedication to supporting the creative process and prioritizing education in filmmaking. Overall, I'd love to see us continue fostering an inclusive, supportive space where creativity and collaboration thrive. |
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Ivan Gorbenko
| About My name is Ivan Gorbenko, and I am an independent filmmaker based in the Okanagan. I recently won the Best Short Documentary award at the Okanagan Film Festival, which was a proud moment in my career. I run IG Video Production, where I create high-quality video content for local businesses and creative projects. My experience in directing, filming, and editing has given me strong project management and collaboration skills. I am passionate about supporting the local film community and believe my creative vision and hands-on experience would be valuable to the OSIF Board. I’d love to help organize events and support emerging filmmakers in the Okanagan. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? In the 2025/26 session, I would like to see the OSIF Board focus on building stronger connections within the local filmmaking community. This could include organizing more networking events, workshops, and collaborative projects that bring filmmakers together. As an example how to use different cameras and lenses. What look do you have by using one or other lenses, to help find the look that each direction or DOP is looking for. Make opportunities for actors to learn more about simple stunt work, etc. Additionally, providing more resources and mentorship opportunities for emerging filmmakers would help nurture new talent and support creative growth. Strengthening partnerships with local businesses and media outlets could also increase visibility for independent films made in the Okanagan. Ultimately, I believe these efforts would foster a more inclusive and thriving film community. What is your long term vision for OSIF? My long-term vision for OSIF is to strengthen connections not only with independent filmmakers and young talent but also with the wider community. I would love to see OSIF create more opportunities for filmmakers to present their work at local city events and even feature them on the social media platforms of other businesses. Building these connections would help increase visibility and support for independent projects. I also envision OSIF becoming a hub for nurturing emerging talent by offering mentorship programs, workshops, and networking events. Additionally, I would like OSIF to actively promote local films through regular screenings, festivals, and partnerships with community organizations. Ultimately, I want OSIF to be a space where filmmakers feel encouraged, supported, and empowered to share their stories, while fostering a dynamic and inclusive film community in the Okanagan. |
Joel Perrella
| About I’ve worked in the media industry, broadly defined, for nearly 20 years. I began my career as a writer and later as an editor for Breathe Magazine, a national adventure sport magazine, while living in Toronto. I took pride in crafting important stories—stories that moved people, inspired action, and encouraged self-betterment. During that time, my team and I expanded into the world of independent film and production, still focusing on sport and outdoor-related topics, while also honing the craft of telling stories on screen in a commercial capacity, through advertisements and documentary features. Our team's work has been featured on network television as well as on the film festival circuit. Throughout this journey, I’ve worked with and coordinated modest crews of 10–15 people, as well as nimble teams of just two. Remaining independent, while also freelancing as a DP/1st AC with other crews, has given me a strong perspective on what our community could benefit from: solid representation of our area as a hotspot for independent, highly skilled, and creative talent, while celebrating those who continue to contribute to the cultural fabric of our industry within the Okanagan. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? While continuing to build on existing programs, like the Screen Awards, and extending their reach to filmmakers throughout the Okanagan, I’d like to see the OSIF Board organize additional professional development events. These events could feature current Okanagan film industry professionals leading discussions on curated topics that are important to members, anchored in the success of their work. What is your long term vision for OSIF? To be recognized as the organization for new and emerging industry members to find community, receive guidance, and gain valuable insights into navigating the world of independent production on a professional level. |
George Popi
| About I’ve been an independent filmmaker for the past nine years. I began my professional career in Montreal, primarily producing corporate and marketing videos for tech startups, while creating comedy sketches on the side. Over time, that experience evolved into launching my current production company, Khaos Labs, which has produced several short films and a feature. Throughout these projects, I’ve worn many hats—director, editor, and producer—depending on the needs of each project. Since relocating to the Okanagan in 2020, I’ve been actively involved in the local film community. I was the DoP and editor on It’s Not Alright (2023), which won the Okanagan 48 Hour Film Project. I directed Dinner Reservations (2024), which won Best Film in the Snakebite 5-Day Film Challenge. Most recently, I directed and edited One More Thing (2025), which placed 3rd for Best Short Film at the OSAs and is currently on the festival circuit. I know firsthand the creative, financial, and logistical challenges indie filmmakers face—and I believe deeply in the power of community to overcome them. That’s why I’d love to offer my experience and time to help OSIF and its members thrive. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? In addition to continuing OSIF’s core initiatives—like workshops, meetups, the 5-Day Film Challenge, and the OSAs—I’d love to help lead new efforts to grow audience interest in independent film, particularly within communities not already connected to the industry. A broader, more engaged audience is key to building a thriving and sustainable local film scene. As someone based in Vernon, I’d also love to see OSIF further expand its reach beyond Kelowna—developing offshoot events in Vernon, Penticton, and other parts of the Okanagan. Strengthening these connections would bring our regional indie film community even closer together. Finally, I want to continue supporting the great work being done to bring in outside adjudicators for our major competitions. These relationships not only raise the quality of feedback—they also help our filmmakers gain visibility and credibility on the festival circuit. I believe OSIF can be more than a home base; it can be a true launchpad for Okanagan filmmakers. What is your long term vision for OSIF? My long-term vision is for OSIF to become a driving force for creative and professional growth in the Okanagan. That means continuing to support skill-building, while also acting as a bridge—connecting members not just with each other, but with engaged audiences, national and international indie film networks, and vital funding opportunities. With the right strategy and support, I believe OSIF can grow into more than just a community—it can be a true launchpad for independent film success rooted in the Okanagan, with impact far beyond. |
Ze Helios
| About I come from a background in film, media, and marketing, with a strong focus on community building. Over the past 10 years, I’ve worked across Canada creating and supporting artistic communities—bringing people together through storytelling and collaboration. In the last 5 years, I’ve produced over 70 episodes of television and two award-winning documentaries. I hold both an MFA and a BFA, which provide me with both the academic foundation and the hands-on experience necessary to navigate the creative and logistical aspects of filmmaking. Beyond production, I’m passionate about strengthening film communities and empowering local voices. My goal is to help OSIF grow as a space where filmmakers can connect, learn, and thrive—through mentorship, opportunity, and shared vision. What would you like to see the OSIF Board achieve in the next year? I’d love to see OSIF host more regular meetings and social events that bring the community together. These gatherings—whether casual mixers, film screenings, or creative roundtables—can be powerful tools for networking, collaboration, and peer support. I believe consistent in-person and online engagement helps foster stronger connections between members and builds a more vibrant, active filmmaking community in the Okanagan. In addition, I’d like to see these events tailored to a range of skill levels, from emerging filmmakers to seasoned professionals, so everyone feels welcome and has something to gain. What is your long term vision for OSIF? My long-term vision is to help make the Okanagan a recognized film hub in Canada—a place where filmmakers come to create, collaborate, and innovate. I believe OSIF can play a central role in that by continuing to support local talent, attracting industry attention, and fostering partnerships that elevate the region's profile. Through community-building, training opportunities, and strategic outreach, OSIF has the potential to not only strengthen the local scene but also position the Okanagan as a go-to destination for independent film production, post-production, and storytelling. |
2nd-Year Term Board Members
These members are not being voted in, they will carry over for their 2nd year in 2025/26
Kim Billinton
| Lyndsey Wong
| Crystal Van Pelt
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Thank You to our outgoing President!
Chelsea McEvoy
Chelsea served as OSIF President for 5 years, and during those years, OSIF saw staggering growth as an organization and face in the community. We couldn't have done this without you Chelsea. On behalf of the entire Okanagan film community THANK YOU! You will be missed, much love and respect from OSIF :)
