About the RIFFA Foundation
The Regina International Film Festival & Awards (RIFFA) Foundation Inc. respectfully acknowledges that its work takes place on Treaty 4 lands, with a presence in Treaty 6 Territory. These are the traditional territories of the nêhiyawak, Anihšināpēk, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda peoples, and the homeland of the Métis/Michif Nation. Today, these lands continue to be home to diverse peoples and communities whose histories, cultures, and contributions enrich Saskatchewan and Canada.
RIFFA Foundation Inc. is a federally incorporated and registered charitable cultural arts organization dedicated to advancing cinema, storytelling, education, and community engagement. Through its programs and initiatives, the Foundation seeks to foster cultural participation, celebrate diverse perspectives, and create opportunities for learning, dialogue, and creative expression.
Established in 2015 following the launch of its founding concept in 2014, the Foundation has served Saskatchewan for more than a decade through a range of year-round cultural, educational, and community-based initiatives. These include the Regina International Film Festival & Awards (RIFFA), RIFFA Bridge Screen, RIFFA Virtual Gateway, RIFFA Silver screen, RIFFA Launch Pad, LOOK: A Mental Health Film Initiative, and the RIFFA Fellowship Programs.
Through these programs, the Foundation works to expand access to cinema, support storytelling, strengthen community connections, and encourage meaningful engagement with arts and culture across Saskatchewan and beyond.
Institutional Identity
RIFFA is a cultural organization that uses film as a platform for storytelling, education, community engagement, and cultural dialogue.The RIFFA International Film Festival is a flagship program of the organization; however, the mission of RIFFA extends beyond a single event and includes year-round initiatives that expand access to cinema and support storytelling.
RIFFA exists to serve the public cultural landscape and community audiences. While participation in RIFFA programs may support the development and visibility of filmmakers and storytellers, the organization’s primary purpose is to advance cinema, storytelling, and cultural engagement for the broader public.
Mission
- RIFFA advances cinema, storytelling, and cultural dialogue by creating platforms that connect filmmakers, audiences, and communities.Through its international film festival, educational initiatives, and year-round community programs, RIFFA expands access to the art of film, supports diverse storytellers, and brings meaningful cultural experiences to underserved and marginalized communities. RIFFA operates as a public cultural institution committed to inclusion, responsible governance, artistic integrity, and long-term sustainability.
Vision
- RIFFA envisions a future where cinema is accessible to all, where diverse stories are heard and valued, and where film serves as a powerful force for cultural connection, understanding, and community engagement.RIFFA strives to grow as a nationally respected cultural institution that connects filmmakers and audiences, expands cultural participation, and strengthens storytelling across Canada while remaining rooted in its local community
Core Values
Cultural Access: Cinema should be accessible to all communities. RIFFA works to expand access to film for individuals and communities who may face barriers to participation, including people experiencing disability, poverty, language barriers, social isolation, or limited access to cultural programming.
Storytelling with Purpose: RIFFA values stories that reflect the diversity, complexity, and shared humanity of people across cultures and communities.
Community Engagement: RIFFA actively engages communities through programs that foster participation, dialogue, and shared cultural experiences.
Artistic Integrity: RIFFA supports filmmakers and storytellers who pursue creative expression with authenticity, originality, and strong artistic standards.
Responsible Stewardship: RIFFA operates with transparency, ethical governance, and responsible financial management to ensure long-term sustainability