Jules Arita Koostachin

Dr. Jules Arita Koostachin (Attawapiskat) is an award-winning filmmaker, mother, writer, performance artist and academic. With her background in community work, social justice themes emerge in her films, alongside bravery, healing, connection and humour. Dr. Koostachin honours her Cree-speaking grandparents who raised her, and her mother, a residential school Survivor/warrior. Relying on a creative eye, keen mind and strong heart, her accomplishments include raising four sons while pursuing academics and artistry. Graduating from Concordia University’s Theatre program, Dr. Koostachin went on to Ryerson University’s Documentary Media master’s program, receiving early recognition with an Award of Distinction and an Academic Gold Medal for her thesis documentary film, Remembering Inninimowin. She went on to do her Ph.D. in Indigenous documentary and protocols and processes, through the Institute of Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice program at the University of British Columbia. The 2024 documentary, WaaPaKe (Tomorrow), was chosen to open Montreal’s Rendezvous with Madness Film Festival in October 2024.

Dr. Jules Arita Koostachin is represented by The Characters Talent (acting) and Lucas Talent (writing, directing). Photo by Karolina Turek, courtesy of the National Film Board.