Few people understand the importance of the arts and culture sector as well as Cameron Bailey. He is CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) - the world's largest public film festival and one of Canada's premier cultural brands. Under his strategic direction, the festival continues to grow in size and significance each year.

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Bailey began his career as a film critic. He also curated films for Cinematheque Ontario, The National Gallery of Canada, The National Film Board of Canada, and Australia’s Sydney International Film Festival before joining TIFF in 1990. He began as a programmer selecting Canadian films before moving on to African and South Asian cinema. He’s responsible for TIFF’s highly successful subscription series, Reel Talk, and also headed TIFF’s Perspective Canada series and founded its Planet Africa section.

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Bailey has taught film curation at the University of Toronto and holds an honorary doctorate from Western University. He is a Chevalier in France’s Order of Arts and Letters, member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science, and for 12 consecutive years been named one of “Toronto’s 50 Most Influential People” by Toronto Life.

Dédy Bilamba is a high-level marketing manager with a rich and diverse background spanning three continents, known for his unique career path.

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Throughout his journey, Dédy has demonstrated his versatility and creativity in diverse roles, including Partnership Manager at Stade de France, Communications Advisor at the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec, and Brand Manager for KFC Côte d’Ivoire. His ability to thrive in different environments is driven by a consistent thread—his creative approach to tackling challenges.

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A passionate advocate for culture, Dédy is also the author of three books and has written short film scripts.

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For the past five years, he has worked in television and cinema in Quebec, contributing to prestigious institutions such as the Vues d'Afrique International Film Festival and the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television (Quebec section).

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Dédy also serves on the Board of Directors of the Dynastie Foundation, further showcasing his commitment to cultural advocacy and community impact.

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Despite having lived in the diaspora from a young age, Dédy maintains a deep connection to Africa. In 2022, alongside his partner Éric M'boua, he co-founded Afro VFX, a groundbreaking initiative with the mission of revolutionizing African cinema and television. 

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Afro VFX aims to develop a competitive ecosystem for VFX (Visual Effects) on the continent, helping amplify African stories and bring them to a global audience.

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Nicole Antoine is a dynamic force in experiential marketing and brand strategy, with over a decade of experience working with more than 40 top-tier companies. As a co-founder and CEO of BLAXPO and Four Brown Girls, Nicole has created platforms that amplify underrepresented voices and foster authentic human connections. Recognized in Forbes, The Social, Globe & Mail, CBC, and named Bay Street Bull’s Woman of the Year, she’s a trailblazer in the industry, balancing corporate success with community impact.

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Her journey spans from managing Black-centric community centers to leading marketing for a national sneaker company. Nicole’s expertise in customer service, strategy, and management shines through in every role she’s taken on. Now, as the Managing Partner of N/A & Co, she continues to elevate brands by crafting meaningful, innovative experiences that not only engage but also drive change.

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Currently pursuing her EMBA at McGill HEC, Nicole's passion for marketing, human connection, and storytelling is stronger than ever, and she’s committed to ensuring her clients stand out while making an impact.

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