Photo: Joy Loewen Storytellers Award recipient Matthew Shoup (CBC New Indigenous Voices)
Video: Interview with Matthew Shoup and award namesake Joy Loewen

The National Screen Institute is proud to announce Matthew Shoup as the inaugural recipient of the Joy Loewen Storytellers Award. The award honours individuals from equity-deserving communities who courageously share their stories and inspire connection through their journeys.

Matthew, an emerging Métis-Canadian filmmaker from Winnipeg, Manitoba, receives a $2,000 cash award to support his creative and professional growth, along with a certificate of recognition. The award is intended to support recipients as they advance through training, creative development or other meaningful pursuits.

Joy Loewen, former CEO of the National Screen Institute and now vice-president of industry development at the Canada Media Fund, is a visionary leader whose legacy is rooted in collaboration, mentorship and service. During her time as a staff member and later CEO, she guided the National Screen Institute through a major period of renewal, strengthened its commitment to underrepresented communities, launched programs that reflected Canada’s diversity and built partnerships that opened new doors for storytellers.

Created by the staff and board of the National Screen Institute as a meaningful way to honour Joy when she stepped down as CEO, this award was envisioned as a lasting tribute to her values, leadership and belief in the transformative power of story. It reflects Joy’s impact on the organization and the broader industry while offering something more personal and enduring than a traditional parting gift.

In Joy’s words: “The recipient should be someone who has courageously shared their story – either in bold, visible ways or through quiet, personal acts of bravery – finding a sense of belonging and connection through their work.”

Matthew is an alum of the 20^th edition of CBC New Indigenous Voices, presented by the National Screen Institute. After interning at Wookey Films, he was hired and recently promoted to post-production supervisor. He is also studying at the University of Winnipeg while developing creative projects that centre Métis representation, including a documentary about the Michif French language.

“The Joy Loewen Storytellers Award reflects Joy’s legacy and her belief in the transformative power of storytelling,” said Christine Kleckner, executive director of the National Screen Institute. “We are honoured to recognize Matthew as the first recipient. His passion for storytelling, resilience and creative drive embody everything this award celebrates.”

Finalists were nominated by program managers from the 2024–25 fiscal year and selected by a jury of staff and board members. To ensure the award remains closely tied to Joy’s legacy and the storytellers she championed, future nominees will continue to be recommended internally by team members who work directly with program participants. Each year, one recipient will be selected from creators who have taken part in National Screen Institute programs within the previous 12 months.

Board member Carissa McCart shared, “There was something so touching and relatable in Matthew’s story that I could not stop thinking about. He was experiencing deep personal challenges during a time of great professional opportunity, and he persisted as a creative leader despite everything. His determination and vision made him stand out, and I hope this award gives him the lift he deserves.”

“Matthew has done a lot in a short time with the opportunities that he has earned,” said Abiola Agbayewa, communications and outreach manager. “He is eager to soak up as much learning and experience as possible on his creative journey. He has exhibited resilience and perseverance which will serve him well as he continues to work in the industry.”

Program manager and business support manager Oyin Bolaji-Idowu noted, “This nomination is based on storytelling and Matthew’s dedication to expanding his artistic range and developing his craft. I think this award can provide support and encourage him to continue forging his path and making an impact with his work.”

Watch the interview between Matthew and Joy at the top of this piece. (Click the play button on Matthew’s photo.)

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About the National Screen Institute

The National Screen Institute partners with a visionary network of donors, businesses, and private and public organizations to provide industry-informed training in screen-based media, equipping creators across Canada with the skills to tell unforgettable stories.

By prioritizing storytellers from equity-deserving communities – including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (BIPOC), women, 2SLGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and those in regional and remote areas – the institute helps build a more sustainable industry and a workforce ready to meet evolving market demands. Students and alumni find their voices and places on the global stage, strengthening the creative economy and shaping a better world.

Further enquiries

Media enquiries: Abiola Agbayewa – ab*************@********da.ca