Canada’s Screen Industry Is Taking a Stand
Interview with Kyle Schmalenberg
Co-founder | Producer | Director, Wrapped Productions Inc.
Wrapped Productions has long been committed to supporting the next generation of filmmakers. Founded by producing partners Kyle Schmalenberg and Laura Friedmann, whose backgrounds in psychotherapy and education shape their approach, the company believes in using film not just as a creative outlet, but as a tool for equity, learning, and access. Their latest collaboration with the CEE Centre for Young Black Professionals reflects that ethos: a hands-on youth training initiative built around the production of short films.
Short films, as Kyle puts it, offer an ideal format for new filmmakers to learn. “The investment of time and resources is comparatively low, but you’re still engaging in every part of the filmmaking process—from development to post. It’s a powerful way to build confidence and skills.”
As Agapi Gessesse, Executive Director of CEE, explains, “This initiative brings our mission to life. We’re removing barriers, affirming that Black youth belong in this industry, and equipping them with the tools to succeed.”
Practical Skills and On-Set Experience
The initiative is an extension of CEE’s E-Trades program, a 9-week training course delivered in partnership with IATSE 873 that prepares young Black professionals for careers in film production. Upon completion, participants are eligible to receive IATSE permits.
Wrapped Productions adds a complementary layer to this training: a series of workshops on independent filmmaking, led by Kyle and Laura, which culminate in the production of an original short film. During production, professional heads of department mentor participants in roles across the crew—from assistant directing, grip, gaffing, and camera to sound, hair and makeup, wardrobe, and post-production.
Workshops are held at CEE’s Scarborough offices, with productions filmed on location throughout Toronto.
Youth at the Creative Centre
Over the past two years, the collaboration has produced two short films:
- Notice imagines a near-future society where citizens receive a 24-hour warning of their impending death. The story follows one man’s final day after receiving his “notice.” The project introduced participants to visual effects and the added complexity of producing sci-fi on a micro-budget.
- Shadowbox, currently in post-production, follows a young woman trying to step out of her father’s shadow as she trains to become a boxer. The film challenged the crew to capture emotional nuance through physicality and movement, and pushed the limits of a youth-led team with two back-to-back overnight shoots.
Participants filled roles in nearly every department and worked alongside seasoned professionals, gaining insight and experience that would be difficult to come by otherwise.
One participant reflected, “I didn’t think I’d ever be on a real set. Now I know I can do this.”
Outcomes and Momentum
Graduates of the program leave with real-world credit, a clearer understanding of industry roles, and connections that help open doors. Some have gone on to pursue further education, others have landed jobs on sets, and a few are developing their own work. The broader impact includes stronger community ties and a growing network of professionals committed to making the industry more accessible.
Each time Wrapped Productions delivers a training initiative like this, Kyle and Laura say they learn just as much as they teach. “It’s always about refining the model, building new relationships, and being reminded that no one makes it in this business alone. You need community.”
Looking Ahead
As long as funding for the E-Trades program continues, so will the opportunity to produce short films with emerging Black professionals in Toronto. Wrapped Productions remains committed to creating opportunities for training, mentorship, and storytelling that reflect the full range of Canadian experiences.
Notice is currently making its way through the festival circuit. Shadowbox is in post, with screenings to come. Those interested in supporting future rounds, as mentors, funders, or partners, are encouraged to reach out to either Wrapped Productions or the CEE Centre for Young Black Professionals.
In Kyle’s words: “The time is always right to teach or to learn—and to make sure those who have been shut out of the industry are finally invited in.”
Amazing initiative and experience. Our young people need more of these opportunities. Well done, Wrapped productions and CEE!
Terrific work Wrapped Productions! I admire your dedication to helping people learn how to make meaningful films.
A great example of how training, mentorship, and hands-on filmmaking can open real doors for emerging Black talent in Canada’s screen industry.