A director standing arms open in front of the Heels On Reels media backdrop

Heels On Reels

Empowering women directors in the film industry

A national initiative to amplify the voices of women directors — challenging the barriers and stereotypes that limit who gets to tell the story.

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The WAGE Project

A transformative initiative for women and gender equity.

The WAGE (Women and Gender Equity) Project is designed to challenge the barriers and stereotypes that limit opportunities for women directors.

Through advocacy, research and targeted outreach, we aim to create systemic change that fosters inclusivity and equity in the film industry — an industry where women directors are empowered to lead with creativity and equality, reshaping narratives and breaking barriers for generations to come.

Directors, allies and partners gathered together at the Heels On Reels stakeholder launch Stakeholder launch · Verity, Toronto
100
Women filmmakers surveyed
100
Directors sought for consultations
4
Pillars of work
National
Reach across Canada

What We Do

Four ways we move the industry.

Evidence first, then the advocacy, the rooms and the tools that turn findings into practice.

01

Research & Data Collection

Focus groups, surveys and interviews with women directors and industry stakeholders provide critical insight into the barriers and opportunities within the film industry.

02

Advocacy & Awareness

We amplify the voices of women directors through public service announcements, video campaigns and outreach that challenge industry norms and promote gender equity.

03

Workshops & Engagement

Interactive workshops and consultations empower stakeholders — including industry leaders and policymakers — to take actionable steps toward systemic change.

04

Resource Development

We create accessible toolkits, digital platforms and advocacy materials that support ongoing efforts to champion women directors.

To understand the barriers women directors face, and identify practical solutions for industry transformation.

The goal · Research at a glance

The Call

Are you a woman director in the film industry?

Heels On Reels is looking for 100 women directors to join our consultations and share their experiences.

Why participate?

  • Share your insights on challenges and opportunities.
  • Help shape advocacy strategies for systemic change.
  • Be part of a movement to promote equity and inclusion.

What’s involved?

  • Participate in focus groups and interviews.
  • Collaborate on solutions to remove barriers.
  • Help create resources to support women directors.

Gallery

Moments from the launch.

The Heels On Reels stakeholder launch at Verity, Toronto — advocacy, workshops and the women directors we work alongside.

Get Involved

Be part of the change.

Support the WAGE Project in the way that fits you best.

01

As an Ally

Partner with us to advocate for gender equity in the film industry.

02

As a Donor

Your support helps sustain this critical work and expand our reach.

03

As a Participant

Attend our workshops, share your story and contribute to the conversation.