TIFF & CBC Announce Miryam Charles As First Charles Officer Legacy Award Winner

Announced at TIFF’s opening ceremony we now know the inaugural recipient of the Charles Officer Legacy Award.

Miryam Charles is the first recipient. This took place at TIFF’s opening ceremony, presented by TIFF and CBC. This award recognizes a Canadian Black director and/or writer whose body of work exemplifies the award-winning filmmaker’s creative excellence, strong point of view, and community-mindedness.

Miryam Charles’ first feature film, Cette maison, earned a Canada’s Top Ten selection in 2022. It premiered at the Berlinale, with Sight and Sound naming it one of the best films of that year.

Jury statement:

“The nominees for the award’s inaugural year were overwhelmingly strong and acknowledged Black creators of all experience levels from across the country. As a committee, we are thrilled to select Miryam Charles of Montreal for the 2025 Charles Officer Legacy Award.

Miryam is a person whose vision, creativity, and commitment to storytelling truly embody the spirit of the award. Her work is extremely bold in its artistic vision. She leads with a curiosity that pushes a unique style and form in a way that echoes what Charles sought to do on his own.

Through her unique and powerful voice, Miryam tells stories that are both deeply personal and universally relatable and have an underlying dedication to strengthening her community. Her colleagues praise her commitment to the mentorship of those on her productions and the authenticity with which she engages her community. We’re proud to celebrate Miryam, and know Charles would have jumped at the opportunity for them to connect and learn from each other.”

Jury members:

• Kish Iqbal, co-owner, Gary Godard Agency
• Anita Lee, Chief Programming Officer, TIFF
• Lea Marin, Director of Development, Drama, CBC
• Jake Yanowski, producer

Miryam Charles will receive a cash prize of $25,000 CAD. In addition a TIFF Industry Membership for one year, and an Industry pass to the 2025 Festival. 

Charles Officer was an award-winning Canadian filmmaker, producer and writer.  His work spanned features, documentaries and television, and often centred Black voices and characters. He was also a fashion model, hockey player before moving into acting and directing.

SOURCE: cbc.ca