Karyna Dianka Named Winner of BMO BIPOC Creative Achievement Award

Karyna Dianka has been announced as the latest recipient of Toronto Film School’s BIPOC Creative Achievement Award.

Presented in partnership with BMO, the recently launched award – which recognizes one full-time BIPOC student with a $1,250 award towards their tuition each quarter – is aimed at contributing to the diversity of the workforce in Canada’s creative industry by helping students who identify as Black, Indigenous or a Person of Colour complete their programs.

Dianka, a fifth-term Film Production student, called receiving the bursary a “significant milestone” in her journey as a visual storyteller.

“This award means so much to me, not just as financial support, but as recognition of the path I’ve been on. It boosts my confidence to keep pushing forward with my creative projects and take on new challenges that might have felt out of reach before,” said Dianka, a talented photographer, videographer and filmmaker.

“The phrase ‘now or never’ is something I’ve lived by, and winning this award feels like a moment where I can fully embrace that mindset. It’s really motivating to know that I’m being recognized for my passion and dedication, and this encouragement will help me stay focused on what’s next.”

Dianka also noted that, with some of her financial concerns eased thanks to the award, she now has the mental space to concentrate more on honing her skills – whether it’s in photography or filmmaking.

“I hope to use this achievement not just for my own growth, but to inspire others, as well. I want people to see that with hard work and believing in yourself, you can achieve things that might seem far away at first,” she said.

“If my story can motivate others to take that next step, that would be incredibly fulfilling for me.”

Dianka’s application for the BIPOC Creative Achievement Award was one that stood out to Jessica Lorette, Director of Student Services, who was impressed by Dianka’s creative passion.

“Karyna is certainly passionate about her creative experiences and the opportunities to enhance those skills,” said Lorette, a member of the award’s selection committee.

“Learning of her journey thus far has been pleasure. Her goals after graduation are well planned and inspiring, and I’m looking forward to seeing her contributions to the film industry.”

Dianka’s creative journey began back in 2014, when she and her family immigrated to Canada from Ukraine – a move she said opened countless opportunities for her to pursue her dual passions for photography and storytelling.

“Photography has always been more than just a hobby for me; it’s a way of capturing and sharing the world around me,” she said. “I have dedicated countless hours to refining my skills through various courses and workshops, always striving to perfect my craft.”

To those ends, Dianka pursued several academic paths before moving from Manitoba to Toronto in 2023 to enroll at Toronto Film School – including a Broadcast Media certificate from the Louis Riel Arts & Technology Centre, a Theatre & Film degree at the University of Winnipeg, and a Self-Employment program at the YMCA-YWCA.

“These experiences deepened my love for storytelling, whether through photography or filmmaking. Since 2016, I have been capturing moments professionally, blending my technical skills with my creative vision,” she said, noting that her 2022 job as a videographer, editor, and reporter at U Multicultural allowed her to “merge my talents in videography with storytelling and journalism, contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of Winnipeg.”

Her 2023 decision to move to Toronto to pursue her diploma in Film Production at TFS, Dianka said, was driven by a desire to dive deeper into the art of visual storytelling.

“This program has provided me with an incredible opportunity to hone my skills and expand my knowledge of the film industry,” she said, noting that her focus has been on camera operations and other behind-the-scenes roles, such as 2nd Assistant Director, Casting Director and Producer, among others.

Dianka’s goal after graduating from TFS is to work in the film industry, contributing to projects that not only tell compelling stories, but also reflect diverse perspectives.

“I am particularly passionate about exploring roles that allow me to blend my technical skills with my love for storytelling, such as Assistant Director and Casting Director positions,” she said.

“I believe that the film industry is the perfect platform for me to make a meaningful impact, and I am eager to contribute to this dynamic field.”

Applications for this term’s BMO BIPOC Creative Achievement Award are now open! Apply today at https://mytfs.ca/my-tfs-on-campus/bipoc-creative-achievement-award/