Kino Toloka Halifax

A community project that unites the community through screenings of Ukrainian films, fostering cultural exchange, raising awareness about Ukrainian cinema, and promoting Ukrainian narratives to protect against Russian propaganda.

In its initial stage, Kino Toloka Halifax will focus on creating a space for uniting the community through shared viewings of high-quality Ukrainian cinema. Raised funds will be used exclusively to organize screenings, including covering venue rental costs and acquiring film rights. The project's name, "Toloka," reflects its core idea—everyone's collective contribution to achieving a common goal.

Project Mission

To establish Kino Toloka Halifax as a platform for Ukrainian cinema in Halifax, providing audiences with access to diverse, high-quality films that showcase Ukraine's rich cultural heritage, contemporary stories, and resilience.

Raising cultural awareness

Screenings of Ukrainian films that highlight national identity, history, and contemporary challenges, with a focus on human stories, including events of the war.

Community unification

Creating a space where Halifax residents—both Ukrainians and non-Ukrainians—can come together, share ideas, and celebrate cultural diversity.

Support for Ukrainian cinema

Expanding the reach of Ukrainian filmmakers by providing them with a platform for international recognition.

Reinvesting for more screenings

Reinvesting in future screenings. Utilizing the events to raise funds for humanitarian and cultural projects supporting Ukraine and its diaspora.

Program Components

Regular Film Screenings

Organizing monthly or quarterly screenings featuring a variety of genres, including documentaries, feature films, and animated movies.
Focus on impactful films such as Budynok Slovo, Divine Madness, and Bucha.

Thematic Film Programs

Curated series of screenings based on themes, such as contemporary cinema, Ukrainian art-house, or short films.

Post-Screening Discussions

Hosting Q&A sessions, panel discussions, or guest presentations by filmmakers, historians, or cultural experts to enrich the audience's understanding.

Collaborative Events

Partnering with local organizations, universities, and cultural groups to broaden reach and foster connections.
For example, collaborating with Halifax Public Libraries or film festivals for special events.

Campaigns

Initially focused on uniting the community through the shared experience of high-quality Ukrainian cinema.
All funds will go towards co-funding the organization of screenings, specifically:
- Venue Rental
  Ensuring access to comfortable and accessible locations for film screenings, such as libraries, cultural centers, or small cinemas.
- Film Rights
  Acquiring rights for the legal screening of Ukrainian films, including both classics and contemporary releases.

Why is this needed?

This model not only raises funds for organizing events but also engages the community through a sense of involvement. Every contribution becomes a part of a collective effort to make Ukrainian cinema accessible to audiences in Halifax. It strengthens the spirit of mutual support that is at the core of the name "Toloka."

Transparency and trust

It is important for every participant in the campaign to understand exactly where the funds are allocated. Therefore, the following will be organized:

Regular expense reports to ensure transparency.
Acknowledgments for donors, such as mentioning their names in materials or during events.

Steps to Launch Campaigns:

Creating a Platform for Contributions

Utilize online resources for fundraising, such as GoFundMe or BuyMeACoffee, to streamline donations.

Communicating the Purpose

Clearly explain that all contributions are allocated to organizing events, specifically covering venue rentals and acquiring film rights.

Engaging the Community

Offer opportunities for volunteers and donors to participate in event preparation, fostering a sense of collaboration.
- For example, patrons can vote on the most convenient screening dates or receive additional gifts from sponsors, such as career consultations, books, or other rewards.

Impact of the Approach
This strategy will not only provide financial support for the project but also attract more people to the initiative, turning them into active participants and advocates of the cause.

Target Audience

Ukrainian Diaspora:

Economic Migrants:
This group often seeks connection to their roots and cultural identity, with a strong interest in films that celebrate Ukrainian heritage, traditions, and resilience.
War Refugees:
For those who have experienced war, films on war-related themes might be emotionally challenging or retraumatizing. Careful consideration of the programming is essential to ensure sensitivity and inclusivity.

Approach:

When developing a detailed program, these distinctions will guide the selection of films to balance the needs of both groups. For instance:

Offer films focused on culture, art, and history for a broader appeal.
Include optional screenings of war-related films with appropriate warnings, ensuring they are framed thoughtfully for those interested.

Halifax Community:

Individuals interested in Ukrainian culture or those who might be intrigued by it.
This audience can be engaged through curated events that highlight the richness and diversity of Ukrainian cinema, fostering cultural exchange and broader community connections.

By addressing the unique needs of each group, the program can create a welcoming and enriching experience for all.

First Steps

Initial Steps

Acquiring Film Rights
- Connect with distributors and filmmakers to secure access to films like Budynok Slovo, Divine Madness, Bucha, and others.
- Explore partnerships with Ukrainian cultural organizations for upcoming releases.
Finding Venue Partners
- Identify and collaborate with local spaces, such as small cinemas, community centers, or libraries.
Funding and Sponsorship
- Engage the local community to raise funds.
- Apply for grants, reach out to local businesses for sponsorship, and encourage donations to cover expenses.
Marketing and Audience Engagement
- Leverage social media, local media outlets, and Ukrainian community groups to increase awareness.
- Highlight the stories behind the films and the impact of the screenings.
Recruiting Volunteers
- Build a team to assist with event planning, marketing, and logistics.

Why is this important?

For centuries, others have told the world about Ukraine, but I believe the time has come for us to take charge of this narrative and never let it go. By sharing Ukrainian stories, Kino Toloka Halifax not only preserves and promotes cultural heritage but also fosters community unity. This initiative holds the potential to educate, inspire, and build solidarity in the face of global challenges.

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