For 10 years, giving Canada a voice in the world of film has been the focus of Tonya Lee Williams, founder of the ReelWorld Film Festival and a long-time cast member of "The Young and the Restless". Last Thursday, at the launch of the decade-old film festival, Williams mingled with those who joined in on the press conference. She was seen doing her best to divert attention away from herself and onto the new screenwriters and filmmakers.

"It feels absolutely wonderful, especially when you see their faces. They're so excited. These are their films and all these people are here to support them and their talent," Williams explained, describing the feeling she gets when featuring the new talent to festival goers.

ReelWorld newcomers like Howard Green, creator of Machete Joe, were also present and excited to be a part of the festival. "[Machete Joe] is my first feature [film]. I'm happy to be out here. I'm happy to be able to show this film to the Canadian audience."

This year's ReelWorld Film Festival is shaping up to be one of the best, packed with everything from documentaries and slasher films to even music videos. Sponsor Tina Robert was in attendance and commented on the festival's importance.

"I think [the film festival] is really important because it's a voice and a platform for emerging filmmakers," she said. "And I think often times there's not really that platform for emerging filmmakers and just the diversity aspect. I think for me part of the reason I joined ReelWorld was really just the passion to drive diversity in front of the camera and behind the camera."

With over 60 per cent of this year's films coming from Canada, the diverse festival will run from April 7 - 11 and is garnering widespread attention. Films will be showing in the ScotiaBank Theatre and Cineplex Canada Square and the turnout is expected to be huge. Any film lover is encouraged to attend this as many filmmakers, screen writers and actors will be making their debut.

Words by. Shaun Bolden