Business: Film and television
Born: Blairmore, Alta.
Biggest business achievement: Making a living exclusively directing film and television series in Ottawa, including a $600,000 feature film and two seasons of an original scripted comedy series.
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Meet District Realty’s new vice-president, Ken Halef
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YMCA-YWCA of the National Capitol Region
What we do The YMCA-YWCA of the National Capital Region is a charitable association dedicated to building healthy communities. Serving thousands of people in our region each year, Y programs
Biggest obstacle overcome: I was laid off twice, and both times it felt like getting dumped from a relationship. Freelancing, however, led me to the career I always wanted, but was afraid to pursue.
Biggest influences: Directors such as David Cronenberg, Bruce MacDonald, Don McKellar and Sarah Polley inspire me to be able to make a meaningful career without leaving Canada.
Biggest lesson learned during COVID-19: When the co-lead actor of Stittsville on Patrol backed out for fears of shooting during COVID, I rewrote the series to be about a single character. That sharpened what I liked most about the concept, which wouldn’t have happened without the pandemic.
Charitable involvement: Burundi Film Center
First job: Fence painter
Advice I’d give the younger me: Write everything down. Your career will depend on having a well of ideas, and you never know what will lead to the next one.
Favourite pastime: Going to the movies
