On Sunday September 14th, the Digi60 community came together at Club SAW to launch the 2025 Kick-Off Event and officially begin this year’s 60-Day Challenge. With 80 registered participants and over 50 attendees joining in person, it was an afternoon filled with energy, connection, and excitement for the season ahead.
Community & New Board Members
The event was also a chance to welcome new Board Members to Digi60, expanding the leadership team that supports Ottawa’s independent filmmaking community.
We’re so grateful for the continued dedication of our board, volunteers, and supporters who help keep Digi60 thriving.
What to Expect Panel
A highlight of the evening was the “What to Expect” panel, featuring past award-winning filmmakers:
Tom Peters (co-Best Director, Best Acting & Best Film)
Foad Asadi (co-Best Director & Best Technical Award)
Jessie Edwards (Best Screenplay Award)
The panelists reflected on their Digi60 journeys and emphasized the importance of identity and authenticity in filmmaking—staying true to one’s vision and voice while navigating the realities of the 60-Day Challenge. They spoke about how collaborative teamwork and mutual support within the local filmmakers' community are essential to bringing projects to life.
The session wrapped up with a Q&A, where participants asked about budgeting, casting, equipment and how to maintain confidence throughout the process. The candid stories and practical tips provided encouragement and inspiration for both first-time filmmakers and returning participants.
Festival Theme Announcement: Bloom
We were thrilled to reveal this year’s official festival theme: Bloom.
Contestants will be asked to capture the theme in six minutes or less. The theme sets the stage for another season of innovative films, where ideas planted in September will blossom into fully realized stories by December’s screenings.
With the Kickoff complete, the countdown to December has begun. We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us at Club SAW, from panelists and board members to all the filmmakers and community supporters who make Digi60 possible. We can’t wait to see the stories that will Bloom on screen this December—see you at the festival!
