Short Film Fund.
This project is a collaboration between Layla Bautista (the owner of Bokeh Media) and Emilie Shyluk (the owner of Lucky Number Nine Media).
About the project.
The mission: There is not enough funding, education or gear in this province to comfortably create a short film. This fund fixes that.
funding.
We want to give away $3,000.00 CAD to a local artist in Saskatchewan. The recipient will use the funding towards creating a short film.
education.
Throughout the process the recipient will be mentored by industry professionals. We will be with you every step of the way to guide and support your ideas.
gear.
The recipient will gain access to Bokeh Media’s gear. This includes professional grip gear, lighting and camera gear.
community.
The final product will be advertised and screened publicly in Regina, Saskatoon and Moose Jaw theatres.
Behind the project.
Our Goal: Use the success of this project to get more funding from private investors in order to continue this program on a quarterly basis. Encourage young filmmakers that they have a voice in this province and prove that the community support their ideas.
Layla Bautista is a half Filipina-Canadian filmmaker born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. She began her career at 17, after shadowing a local filmmaker who introduced her to the world of film. Since then, she has built a thriving production company, Bokeh Media, which specializes in music videos, short films, and feature films.Layla has worked across Canada as a producer, editor, and cinematographer. Her works include Magic, an Afro-Beat music video supported by Creative Saskatchewan’s Filmmaker’s Grant; BOUND, a coming-of-age short film set in Saskatchewan; and Beginner’s Luck, a short film comedy produced through the Regina Film Festival Launch Pad. In addition to her production work, she teaches “Practical Film Techniques” at the Recording Arts Institute of Saskatoon.Layla aims to produce meaningful, culturally resonant projects that spotlight underrepresented voices. She remains committed to fostering collaborative and inclusive environments within every stage of production. Layla Bautista
Emilie Shyluk is a Fransaskois filmmaker based in Saskatoon, SK. She is dedicated to capturing authentic, community-driven stories that highlight connection, spontaneity, and everyday life. With a focus on emotional truth and immersive visuals, Emilie aims to continue growing as a storyteller and contributing to Saskatchewan's vibrant arts scene.emilie shyluk
Submission Details.
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Budget: $3,000.00
DOP Mentorship from Emilie Shyluk
Director Mentorship from Layla Bautista
Producer Assistance
Access to Bokeh Media Gear
Screening at Moose Jaw theatre, Regina theatre and Saskatoon theatre
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Deadline to apply: June 20th of 2026
Winner to be announced: July 1st of 2026
Final Delivery Due: September 30th of 2026
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Short film must be at least 10 min in duration
Use at least 2 mediums in the film
(Example)
Super 8
Camcorder
iPhone
Animation
Painting
Use a minimum of two locations
Use a minimum of two lead actors
Short film must cover one of the provided themes below
Team must be SK residents and short film must be filmed in SK
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Yes! Below, please find a downloadable budget template and the Bokeh Media gear list
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As part of the funding, you will have the option to FREE access to Bokeh Media’s gear. You can find the gear list below.
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All submissions will be judged by Layla Bautista and Emilie Shyluk according to a submission rubric. You can view what you will be judged on in the reference rubric provided below.
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You! Your ideas and final outcomes belong to your ownership. All we ask is that you include our logos and respected names in your project. You also agree that both Bokeh Media and Lucky Number Nine Media can use your final product on their websites and social media to help advertise the Short Film Fund project.
Submission resources.
themes.
your short film must cover one of the provided themes below.
this quarter’s overall theme is “current events“
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The modern world is full of AI prompts and stolen ideas. What impact does this have over art? This prompt asks the question “Can original art still exist in a world of AI?”
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Expression of art comes in many forms, from trauma, experience, and situations. This prompt asks the question “Why is mental health so important?”
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Saskatchewan is the traditional territory of the Cree, Dene (including Denesuline/Chipewyan), Dakota, Nakota (Assiniboine), and Saulteaux peoples, and is the homeland of the Métis Nation. This prompt encourages filmmakers to showcase the wonders of Saskatchewan land, history and its people.