EXNW 2025 Storytelling Summit Unites Canada–Asia Creatives in Vancouver’s Cultural Crossroads
Top storytellers from Canada and Asia met in Vancouver to explore new ways to share stories through film, tech, and culture.
A New Chapter in Global Storytelling Begins in Vancouver
Vancouver was buzzing last week as the EXNW 2025 Storytelling Summit took over the city. More than 300 filmmakers, writers, artists, and tech leaders from Canada and across Asia gathered to talk about the future of storytelling.
Held in the heart of the city, the three-day event included expert panels, workshops, film screenings, and tech demos. Creators from many backgrounds shared ideas on how stories can connect people across borders, cultures, and generations.
“We’re seeing a new kind of story take shape,” said EXNW founder Maya Okabe. “It’s not just local anymore—it’s global, digital, and deeply personal.”
Vancouver at the Center of East–West Creative Exchange
EXNW stands for East by Northwest, a name that reflects its goal: to bring together storytellers from Asia and the Pacific Northwest. Vancouver, with its strong Asian communities and booming film scene, is the perfect place for this exchange.
Key themes from this year’s summit included:
- Tech and Storytelling: Creators explored how AI, virtual reality, and digital tools are changing how stories are told.
- Identity and Culture: Sessions like “Telling Stories Across Borders” looked at how creators share stories from mixed or immigrant backgrounds.
- Funding and Growth: Experts gave advice on how to fund international projects and reach global audiences.
Dr. Yujin Chen, a cultural researcher at UBC, explained:
“This summit is part of a bigger shift. It’s about who gets to tell stories—and who those stories are for.”
Why This Moment Matters
The summit wasn’t just about art. It also tackled real-world issues shaping today’s media:
- Representation Matters: Many creators spoke about the need for more honest and diverse stories, especially in Western media.
- Audience Shifts: Young viewers want stories that feel real—ones that reflect many cultures, voices, and experiences.
- Global Growth: Canada and Asia are building stronger ties, and shared storytelling is helping drive that connection.
A 2024 report from Telefilm Canada showed that co-productions with Asia have doubled in recent years—proof that cross-border stories are in high demand.
“This isn’t just culture,” said Singaporean writer Hana Lee. “It’s also business, community, and future thinking.”
What’s Next for EXNW and Global Creators
The energy around EXNW 2025 was electric. Attendees left inspired, with many already starting joint projects. Online buzz was strong too, with #EXNW2025 trending across social platforms.
EXNW has big plans for the future. Next year’s summit will head to Seoul, with smaller events planned for Toronto and Singapore. They’re also launching a new mentorship program to support young Canada–Asia creators, opening later this fall.
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Final Thoughts: One Story, Many Voices
EXNW 2025 showed that the future of storytelling is open, global, and shared. Vancouver was more than a backdrop—it was a bridge. As more creators join this movement, one thing is clear: storytelling has no borders.
The most powerful stories aren’t told alone. They’re told together.
