‘Never Forget Your Voice’ | Arthur Ladouceur’s Online Writing for Film & Television Story
As a young boy, Arthur Ladouceur dreamed of one day becoming a screenwriter and being able to share his stories of growing up as proud member of the Métis Nation of Alberta on the big screen.
Fast-forward to 2022, and the Edmonton-based former business owner is now finally able to pursue that passion – and as valedictorian of Toronto Film School Online’s Writing for Film & Television program, no less.
Shortly after graduating with distinction from TFSO, Ladouceur started up his own production company, Resilient Art Entertainment – a place the lifelong storyteller said he hopes his fellow Indigenous writers and filmmakers can “create without prejudice” and share the “vibrant stories that spread throughout Indigenous communities worldwide.”
“Never forget your voice and the impact it has,” Ladouceur said of his advice to fellow graduates.
“It does not matter where you are from, your age, or your skin color. Your voice is important, and it can change and shape lives.”
Ladouceur recently sat down to reflect on his time at Toronto Film School, his passion for screenwriting, and his plans for the future. Here’s what he had to say:
What brought you to Toronto Film School? Where were you in life when you decided to continue your studies with us?
I choose TFS because of its reputation and online availability. When I decided to enroll, my construction company was failing, and I decided to take a chance and chase my dream of becoming a screenwriter.
What made you decide to pursue your passion for screenwriting?
It was all about timing. I felt it in my heart, and The Creator has always gifted me with the ability to tell stories. I have always loved film and I knew it was time to learn how to put my people’s stories on the screen. Indigenous stories are important more now than ever. The world needs to hear and see the truth, and film is a great method to do so.
What is the most important thing you’re taking away from your studies at TFS?
The biggest thing I am taking away from TFS is the realization that everyone has an important voice, and if you can harness that voice and put it into your work, amazing things start happening; worlds come alive, and characters begin to shape a world that only you can create.
What are your plans after graduation both immediate and long term?
I have opened my production company, Resilient Art Entertainment, and plan on offering a safe and non-judgmental environment for Indigenous creators to develop and share their unique, personal, and important stories.
If you offered one piece of advice to an incoming student, what would that be?
The only advice I would offer is to be trusting. Trust your instructors, trust the process, and most importantly, trust your voice, because it matters. It doesn’t matter where you are from or how old you are, your voice matters and can change the world.
