Our third Summer of Service is underway, and to kick off this year’s campaign, we enlisted the help of a talented team of students from OCAD University in Toronto to produce our first kickoff video. Filmed on location at the Don River Valley volunteer event in April, the student-led crew from the innovative OCAD U LIVE program managed all aspects of the video’s production.
OCAD U LIVE is a unique resource at OCAD University. It’s an on-demand video channel, production house, and content creator studio featuring original media produced by students. Since its start in 2020, students have created a wide variety of programs, including talk shows, cooking shows, fitness shows, and music shows, with new content constantly being added. This diverse programming reflects the inclusive and dynamic student body.
Beyond encouraging creative expression, OCAD U LIVE offers valuable professional experience. Students are paid for the episodes they submit and have access to studio space, equipment, training, mentoring, and networking sessions. These resources equip them with the tools needed to succeed in the film and media industry.
“ We had an amazing experience working with FirstService Corporation. Opportunities like this are invaluable to building our students’ experiences and resumes,” said Leondardo Dell’Anno, OCAD U LIVE executive producer.
In 2023, OCAD U LIVE launched a production house where students are paid to work with both internal and external clients, creating original content such as social media videos, highlight reels, live streams, and other commissioned projects. They have collaborated with various clients, including TIFF, Secret City Adventures, FirstService, Toronto West BIA, Fan Expo Canada, and the Centre for Mindfulness Studies.
“We are thrilled to have partnered with OCAD U LIVE on our Summer of Service video, giving students valuable real-world work experience,” said Jennifer Kennedy, director of marketing and communications at FirstService Corporation. “Real-world experience beyond classrooms is essential, and OCAD U LIVE provides students with opportunities to collaborate with client companies across diverse industries. We were impressed by their professionalism, creativity, and resourcefulness, and we encourage our teams to seek out opportunities to #FirstServeOthers by supporting local student talent.”
OCAD U LIVE is an innovative model for fostering talent, gaining professional experience, and building a strong community of creative minds.
