Jessica Morgan Gail Matthews
My name is Jessica Matthews, and I am a multidisciplinary artist and writer from Nova Scotia. I am passionate about storytelling; whether through film, poetry, or game design. I believe it is one of the best tools we have that helps to bring people together and feel less alone in the world. I started Reel Tides Film Collective to help support youth or inexperienced Atlantic Canadian filmmakers and create more accessible spaces, and opportunities for collaboration for underrepresented voices. Living with disabilities in my own life has shaped the way I approach accessibility, advocacy, and building inclusive spaces within Reel Tides. More than anything, I care about helping youth feel seen, confident, and creative. Art has always helped me find my voice; and now I want to help others do the same.
Reel Tides Film Collective
For emerging filmmakers in Atlantic Canada, who are wanting to tell meaningful stories and gain experience; Reel Tides Film Collective is a community film making collective that aims to empower underrepresented voices to help shape a more inclusive and vibrant future film culture in the Maritimes ︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶︶ Local stories. Atlantic spirit Est. 2025 Community-led | Artist-driven | Non-Profit
https://reeltidesfilm.org/About this Project
Communities Served
My project will involve and/or impact the following communities:
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
When it comes to community impact projects, the UN has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These are the Sustainable Development Goals associated with my project.
How the project works
Reel Tides Film Collective will host seasonal film making workshops, webinars, and mentorship for emerging Atlantic Canadian filmmakers. Activities include story development, hands-on production, and public screenings. The project centers on collaboration, accessibility, and empowering underrepresented voices through community led, creative, and inclusive experiences.
Project Impact
We will create opportunities for underrepresented Atlantic Canadian youth to explore filmmaking in a safe, inclusive, and collaborative space. By increasing access to mentorship, creative tools, and hands-on experience. The project empowers young storytellers to build confidence, find their voice, and contribute to a more diverse and vibrant film culture in the Maritimes.
Project Mission
Reel Tides aims to support emerging and underrepresented filmmakers in Atlantic Canada by fostering inclusive, accessible, and community-led creative spaces. Our mission is to amplify diverse voices, provide mentorship and hands-on experience, and build a stronger, more connected film culture rooted in local stories, collaboration, and the spirit of the East Coast.
Project Team
A small & passionate team that seek to empower local filmmakers through inclusive storytelling
- Founder:
- Jess Matthews
- Volunteers:
- Michael Baldridge / (tech, other...)
- Michael Tweedale / (tech, other...)
- Meghan Clayton / (production consultant, mentor, other...)
- Noel Sadak / (production consultant, mentor, other...)
- Zachary Szegho / (production consultant, mentor, other...)
- Philip Clarke / (production, mentor, other...)
Optional Photo Gallery
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