On March 1, 23 students from Winnipeg School Division's CREATE program at Sisler High School were delighted to learn they have received scholarships to Vancouver Film School (VFS). This year, VFS and The Schroeder Foundation have substantially increased their support. They will provide substantial tuition scholarships to 23 students in the program, an investment of over $677,000. The recipients will study animation, game design, programming, 3D and visual effects.
"VFS and The Schroeder Foundation have really stepped up for our students," said CREATE Department Head Jamie Leduc. "They recognize the incredible talent, work ethic and professionalism of these young people and are making a major investment in their futures."
This event was attended by parents, students, school administration and Kyla Inocenio, an original VFS scholarship recipient who is now working as the program coordinator at VFS.
Since 2019, 44 CREATE students have received scholarships to VFS. The number of scholarships has increased steadily each year - 10 were awarded in 2019, 15 were awarded in 2021, 19 were awarded in 2022, and 23 have been awarded for 2023.
The VFS contribution to the scholarships is the latest offer in the school's long-standing relationship with the Sisler CREATE program. Since the CREATE program was established in 2015, over 100 students from the program have received a VFS scholarship in some form. This year's group will be the largest single cohort to date.
"Students from CREATE come to VFS a step ahead," said Jon Bell, Managing Director of VFS. "The skills and dedication they bring to their work prepare them to succeed not only in their studies, but in entertainment arts as a whole. VFS is excited to welcome these future industry leaders. VFS is excited to help foster their talent and grow their careers."
The Schroeder Foundation has provided over $600,000 in scholarships, and an additional $900,000 in equipment to CREATE since 2019. The Foundation also funds industry liaisons to help coordinate partnerships, work placements and internships for students.
"VFS and The Schroeder Foundation are changing lives. Their support has shaped our program, and the creative industries on a wider level," said Leduc. "Our students are getting out there, they're following their passion, and sharing their stories with the world. These scholarships have removed barriers to education for so many young people, allowing them to reach their full potential."
Winnipeg School Division's CREATE program at Sisler High School provides students with industry and post-secondary pathways to creative industries and hands-on experience in media production. CREATE offers both high-school and post-high instruction in animation, game design, film, motion graphics and other digital media.
