‘Finding Lebanon in Canada’
A project created by SILA, in collaboration with the Lebanese Film Festival in Canada
Sharing Our Heritage
To celebrate Lebanese Heritage Month, SILA and the LFFC are launching a call for submissions for a one-minute short video under the theme ‘Finding Lebanon in Canada’.
The screening of the full compilation video will take place on November 15 during the LFFC documentary screening at the Maison du Cinéma, in Sherbrooke, Quebec.
What is Lebanese Heritage Month?
To honour the significant contributions Lebanese Canadians have made within Canada, and in recognition of Lebanese Independence Day (November 22, 1943), the Government of Canada designated November as Lebanese Heritage Month in 2023.
Lebanese immigration to Canada dates back to 1882, with significant waves following historical events such as the Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990). The purpose of this month is to celebrate the social, cultural, economic, political, and military contributions of Lebanese-Canadians to the country's national fabric.
The challenge!
Create a collective video that showcases our amazing and wonderful stories, portraying how Lebanese culture and heritage enrich our lives in Canada.
How to participate?
1. Film:
Create a short clip recorded in one single shot, without any editing.
Here are the technical details to keep in mind:
- Your video must be no longer than 60 seconds
- It should be filmed in a horizontal format (16:9 / HD)
- Accepted file types include MP4, MOV, or any other format that works well on your phone
- Express yourself in French, English, or Arabic!
2. The content:
Capture how your Canadian city and your surroundings remind you of home. For example, you can film yourself eating a manouche at your favourite spot! First, introduce yourself, state what reminds you of home, and explain why:
“Hi! My name is Rima, and I’ve been in Canada for 15 years. Every time I miss home, I go have a manouche noss-noss at Café Chez Téta. The smell of za'atar transports me straight back to Lebanon!”
3. Submit:
Fill out the form and submit your video by November 5.
You can use your phone, a drone, or a professional camera..
Whether you’re one person or a hundred people, at home in your PJs or outdoors in Nunavut! Everyone is welcome!
Let’s celebrate together!
Take part in this collective creation to celebrate Lebanese Heritage Month!
Why participate?
Because even when we are away from Lebanon, we are reminded of its beauty, its warmth, and its beautiful people everywhere we go in Canada.
By taking part in this creative project, you will be:
Honoring your heritage
Honouring our adoptive country
Contributing to the visibility of our traditions
Inspire me!
Un exemple de vidéo sera publié bientôt !
Contribute Differently
Can’t participate this time? No problem—spread the word! Share this with your friends, family, and anyone you know!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
Anyone who loves Lebanon!
Can we film the clip as a group?
Yes, the more the merrier!
Where will the film be shown?
It will be screened during the film festival's special screening on November 15. We will also post it on social media so as many people as possible can see it.
Is it free?
Yes, taking part is completely free and voluntary.
Can I submit several times?
Yes, as many times as you like, but we can’t promise we will be able to include every single clip!
What happens to the submitted clips?
They will become the property of SILA and will be used to help promote and foster Lebanese culture.
About the Organizers
About SILA
SILA is a volunteer-led, Montreal-based, non-profit organization founded in 2020 in response to the August 4th Beirut explosion. Our mission is to offer resources and support for Lebanese citizens wishing to immigrate and integrate into Canada. We organize webinars, social and community events, and offer accessible, friendly guidance to facilitate the relocation process.
About the Lebanese Film Festival in Canada
The Lebanese Film Festival in Canada (LFFC) is one of the world’s premier film festivals dedicated to showcasing Lebanese cinema alongside international standouts. Since its founding in 2017, the LFFC has helped promote the Lebanese film industry beyond its borders. The programming offers screenings, lectures, discussions, workshops, interviews, and one-on-one meetings with filmmakers from Lebanon, Canada, and across the globe.
