Emerging Lens Cultural Film Festival was founded by Shelley Fashan and Tara Taylor to provide a platform for Black Nova Scotian filmmakers and stories. The first festival was held at the Black Cultural Centre in Cherry Brook in 2011 as a one-night event, after Fashan and Taylor received support from the Council on African Canadian Education to establish the festival.
Over the years, Emerging Lens expanded into a multi-day festival held at venues throughout the Halifax area. While African Nova Scotian filmmakers and stories were at the foundation of the festival, its programming has grown to include Black Canadian stories from across the country, Indigenous stories and culturally focused films and filmmakers from other communities around the world.
Produced by the Charles Taylor Theatre and Media Arts Association, the festival combines film screenings with cultural performances, filmmaker Q&As, networking receptions and educational and industry programming. Emerging Lens has also provided opportunities for emerging filmmakers to develop their work through workshops, pitching opportunities and other initiatives.
In 2026, Emerging Lens celebrated its 16th annual festival, with screenings and events remaining free to the public.
