TELUS STORYHIVE Voices is back for its fifth year of supporting new, diverse and emerging digital content creators to share their stories with the world!
What story will you tell through STORYHIVE Voices?
Since 2013, content creators from across B.C. and Alberta have been sharing their passions and telling local stories from small towns and underrepresented communities, all with the support of TELUS STORYHIVE. These stories have sparked conversations, shifted narratives and helped launch the careers of emerging content creators.
As STORYHIVE launches applications for its fifth annual STORYHIVE Voices program, they’re looking for new and emerging digital content creators, as well as STORYHIVE alumni, to share fresh stories and spark community conversations.
“We are thrilled to launch the fifth season of the TELUS STORYHIVE Voices program,” says Audrey Kiss, STORYHIVE Interior B.C. Territory Manager. “It’s been amazing to witness the diverse range of video series brought to life through this program. The talent within our communities continue to inspire us, showcasing the power of local storytelling.”
Your Passion, Your Community. Apply by March 20, 2025 to be a part of this program from TELUS STORYHIVE!
With support from TELUS STORYHIVE, Kris Downey has been able to expand her creative horizons and explore new opportunities within her community.
Inspired by her work as a service dog coach and her passion for rehabilitating reactive rescue dogs, Kris Downey wanted to show people the potential these dogs have when given the right environment and training.
When Kris learned about TELUS STORYHIVE’s commitment to community-driven storytelling, she knew it was the right program for her. That’s when she began her creative journey to bring Transforming Trauma—her documentary series on the rehabilitation of reactive rescue dogs—to life.
“STORYHIVE’s community-driven focus on storytelling aligns perfectly with my own goals of raising awareness about the topics I feel the most passionate about—in this case, raising awareness about trauma-informed dog training,” Kris says.
Kris’s series, Transforming Trauma, explores the challenges and successes of using positive reinforcement to help dogs heal and thrive. She describes the project as “deeply personal,” blending education and storytelling to inspire compassion and understanding of rescue animals.
“Working with STORYHIVE on this project was an empowering experience,” Kris says. “They provided the funding, tools and resources needed to bring meaningful stories to life. The STORYHIVE team fosters a sense of community among content creators and supports us in creating impactful projects.”
One of the most memorable moments during the project, Kris recalls, was witnessing one of the dogs take its first steps toward trust.
“It’s a small but profound shift and being able to capture that on camera is truly rewarding,” she says.
The filming process reinforced Kris’s understanding of the healing process in rescued animals and how to capture it authentically.
“During the project, I learned the importance of flexibility and patience. Filming with rescue animals means adapting to their needs and timelines,” Kris says. “The encouragement and resources provided by the STORYHIVE community were invaluable and played a key role in the completion of the project.”
For aspiring STORYHIVE content creators, Kris recommends taking full advantage of the resources and networking opportunities.
“The guidance and connections STORYHIVE provides can enhance your project and lead to future creative partnerships,” she says. “Just make sure you focus on telling a story that you’re passionate about. STORYHIVE values authenticity and purpose, so don’t be afraid to share what matters most to you.”
Tell Cranbrook stories though STORYHIVE Voices
Selected applicants will receive $10,000 in production funding, training and access to a diverse creator community to produce a six to 10 episode grassroots series that is reflective of their local community. From a gripping docuseries, an edutainment series or lifestyle series* - the possibilities are endless! The projects will also receive distribution support and gain access to more than one million viewers on TELUS Optik TV, Stream+ and over 162,000 subscribers on TELUS STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel.
“At STORYHIVE, we’re committed to expanding our program offerings to support all kinds of content creators to tell the stories of their communities,” adds Kiss. “This program is designed to support new and emerging digital content creators, providing them with the resources to help bring their ideas to life. We’re excited to see what’s next from the creatives in Cranbrook and across B.C. and Alberta, and we encourage passionate storytellers from all backgrounds to apply. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your creative journey to the next level, STORYHIVE Voices is here to help amplify your vision.”
Interested in applying?
Your Passion, Your Community!
No experience is required. TELUS STORYHIVE’s fifth annual STORYHIVE Voices program is open to new and emerging digital content creators as well as STORYHIVE alumni.
Applications must be submitted online at STORYHIVE.com/apply by March 20, 2025.
Making an impact in B.C. and Alberta for over the past decade
Since 2013, TELUS STORYHIVE has distributed more than $66.9 million in production funding, supporting 1,400+ screen-based projects, with over 162,000 hours of robust training and one-on-one mentorship. STORYHIVE has also supported 270+ communities across B.C. and Alberta. Through innovative programs they provide production funding, training, mentorship and distribution on TELUS Optik TV and online platforms. STORYHIVE remains committed to supporting and empowering the next generation of Canadian content creators and storytellers.
Join our online Ask Us Anything: The STORYHIVE Voices team will be online on Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 11 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. MT to take your questions about what types of content are eligible, tips for putting together your application and anything else you need to know. Register today and make sure to tune in on TELUS Optik TV channel 9 and STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel on Tuesday, Feb. 25 from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. PT.
Stay connected with STORYHIVE and learn about future funding opportunities on their social media channels Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.
*Ineligible content includes: Fictional/scripted Projects, Music Videos, Podcasts, Audio-only or Video-only content, Promotion or advertorial content, web series and documentaries/docuseries - See STORYHIVE.com/apply for more details.