Joy Loewen, CEO of the National Screen Institute, announced today she is stepping down in 12 months after the completion of a visionary strategic plan, five years in the position, and over 12 accumulated years of service at the organization which supports creators to change the world through the power of story.
As CEO, Joy spearheaded a rebirth of the organization, ushering in a period of reinvigoration, rebranding, change management, stability and growth. She renewed the organization’s commitment to supporting underrepresented storytellers through inclusive, customized training and mentoring. Joy has been driven by the vision that storytellers create a culturally equitable world.
“Leading the National Screen Institute is the biggest accomplishment of my career,” said Joy. “The National Screen Institute’s mandate to support the goals and dreams of traditionally underrepresented creators aligns with my personal mandate. It has been a privilege to serve the creators who are leading us along the path to cultural equity.”
Virginia Thompson, chair of the board of directors, added that Joy has been a transformative leader. “She brought renewal, vigor and inspiration to the National Screen Institute. Her service to the organization is immeasurable. She has brought to life ground-breaking ideas, inspired the board, staff, partners and participants and has helped countless storytellers fulfill their aspirations.
We are grateful to Joy for making the National Screen Institute better, stronger, and more inclusive, and for positioning the organization for the future.”
Some of Joy’s greatest achievements include eliminating the deficit to stabilize the organization’s finances, increasing participant numbers and engaging local, national and international partners to deliver programs that meet the current needs of screen-based professionals through initiatives such as Access BIPOC Producers and the TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators.
Over the last three years, through a collaboration with The Shine Network Institute, Joy has led the National Screen Institute’s involvement in P.A.C.T. (Pledge – Activate – Cultivate – Thrive) – a new online course designed to provide non-Indigenous people in the film and television sector with cultural humility and competency training to prepare them for working with Indigenous productions and content.
In late 2022, Joy chartered a path to sustainability through the establishment of the National Screen Institute’s first Endowment Fund.
Joy will remain in her role until June 2024. She is considering several options upon conclusion of her role but remains focused on ensuring the remaining tasks in the strategic plan are completed.
“One of the most successful demonstrations of effective leadership is succession planning to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of service and care. My departure will create an incredible opportunity for a new leader, with new ideas and perspectives to continue the work and vision of the National Screen Institute,” said Joy.
The board of directors plans to hire an executive search firm to start the process of seeking a new CEO for the National Screen Institute’s headquarters in Winnipeg, Manitoba.