Amplifying Migrant Voices Through Film

Hi everyone, I’m Amir Akbari, a documentary filmmaker with 17 years of experience telling stories that matter. In Iran, I dedicated my career to amplifying the voices of families battling addiction and social hardship. Now, as an immigrant in Canada and a father of two, I’m on a new mission: to shine a light on talented but overlooked artists in Toronto’s vibrant, multicultural community.

Three years ago, I arrived in Canada with a dream to continue my work. With little more than a camera and determination, I created Brushes and Ordeals, a documentary about Tania, a remarkable artist who fights daily to pursue her passion despite countless obstacles. This film, my first in English, was a milestone—not just for me, but for the audiences who discovered Tania’s inspiring story. You can watch it with the link : https://youtu.be/6cxYTRBQWG0

Now, I’m ready to take this project further. I want to create a series of documentaries that celebrate “silent artists”—talented individuals whose stories are rarely heard. From painters to musicians, these creators enrich Canada’s cultural tapestry but lack the platform to shine. My small Toronto studio is ready, but as a working father, I need your support to make this vision a reality.

With your help, I’ll cover essential costs: equipment rentals, editing software, and travel to meet artists across the city. I’m aiming to raise $7000 to produce the next documentary, which will feature three artists whose stories of resilience will inspire us all. Every dollar counts—$25 could fund a day of filming, $100 could cover editing software for a month.

Join me in giving a voice to Canada’s hidden artists. Together, we can create something meaningful, one story at a time. Thank you!

Donation Instructions for Supporting Migrant Artists Documentaries

Thank you for supporting our mission to uplift migrant artists in Canada through compelling documentaries! Your contributions help us showcase their talents and stories, giving them the platform they deserve. Below are the rewards for your generous donations:

$10 or more: Receive a heartfelt thank-you email from the project team and a shout-out on our social media platforms.

$25 or more: All of the above, plus your name listed as a supporter on our project website.

$50 or more: All of the above, plus early access to an exclusive behind-the-scenes video of the documentary production process.

$100 or more: All of the above, plus your name included in the credits at the documentary's end as a valued supporter.

$250 or more: All of the above, plus an invitation to a virtual screening of the documentary with a Q&A session with the production team.

$500 or more: All of the above, plus a personalized thank-you video from the featured migrant artist and a digital poster of the documentary signed by the team.

$1,000 or more: All of the above, plus an exclusive producer credit in the documentary and an invitation to visit the set during filming (travel not included).

Every dollar helps us tell these vital stories, and we’re grateful for your support in empowering migrant artists. To donate, visit our GoFundMe page and select your contribution level. Together, we can make a difference!

Note: Rewards are subject to production timelines and availability. We’ll contact you via email to coordinate your rewards after your donation is received.