Ande Brown Wins the 14th Annual RBC $15,000 Emerging Filmmakers Competition
Ande Brown has won the 14th annual RBC $15,000 Emerging Filmmaker Pitch Competition at the Gimli International Film Festival (GIFF), selected from five finalists in a live pitch session held Saturday morning.
Ande pitched Half Naked, a semi-autobiographical comedy about a trans man navigating the anxiety of going shirtless in public for the first time. The jury selected the project for its creative potential and clarity of vision.
Ande is a Winnipeg-based filmmaker whose work explores gender identity and is rooted in his experience as a trans man. His debut short Better Late Than Never won Best Manitoba Short at the 2024 Reel Pride Film Festival, and he has just completed his second short First Shave.
“I want to tell stories that reflect trans experiences with humour and hope. If this film helps someone feel seen or brave enough to share their own story, that’s a win,” said Ande.
As the winning filmmaker, Ande will receive:
• $15,000 in production funding from RBC
• $5,000 in-kind equipment rental support from Sunbelt Rentals
• Mentorship from the National Screen Institute – Canada
• $2,000 in-kind rentals from Winnipeg Film Group
• $3,000 in-kind support from Talon Production Services
• One-year Industry Professional Membership and All Access 365 pass from On Screen Manitoba
• Premiere screening at the 2026 Gimli International Film Festival
• Eligibility to apply for up to $10,000 through Manitoba Film and Music’s Grant Program for Emerging Talent and Micro-Budget Production Fund
“Every story begins with an idea which has the power to inspire, connect, or challenge the way we see the world,” said Tracey Schofield, Regional Vice-President, RBC. “We’re proud to stand behind the RBC Emerging Filmmaker Pitch Competition because it provides early-career filmmakers like Ande the platform, resources and access to take that first big step and bring their bold ideas to life.”
“We’re thrilled to support this initiative alongside RBC and the Gimli International Film Festival,” said Lindsay Somers, Executive Director of On Screen Manitoba. “Our industry grows stronger when emerging voices are encouraged and empowered. We can’t wait to see what Ande creates — and we’re excited to be part of that journey.”
“The strength of this year’s pitches shows how much creative potential exists in Manitoba,” said Teya Zuzek, Executive Director, Gimli International Film Festival. “We’re proud to support Ande at this early stage and look forward to welcoming their finished film to the festival next year.”
The RBC Emerging Filmmaker Pitch Competition is presented by RBC, in partnership with On Screen Manitoba and the Gimli International Film Festival.