U of T Urban Studies Students Facilitated by Focus to tell Regent Park Stories

 

Students from the Urban Studies program at the University of Toronto recently partnered with Focus Media Arts Centre through their URB236 course to explore the ongoing Regent Park revitalization while building hands-on, community-focused journalism skills.

Focus Media Arts Centre played a central role in supporting this work by providing students with comprehensive training and mentorship across the full interview production process. This included guidance on how to identify, approach, and coordinate with interview participants, as well as hands-on training in the use of professional camera and audio equipment. Students were also supported in developing thoughtful, community-centred interview questions and ethical storytelling practices, ensuring their work reflects the voices and experiences of residents with care and respect.

With this support, students are producing a series of short videos examining key issues in Regent Park, including community consultation, affordable housing and displacement, the impact on youth, and changes to small businesses. Through interviews with residents, community leaders, and researchers, the project captures a diverse range of perspectives on the neighbourhood’s ongoing revitalization.

This collaboration demonstrates the critical impact of Focus Media Arts Centre’s work in equipping emerging storytellers with the skills, tools, and mentorship needed to document complex community issues. By lowering barriers to media access and centring local voices, Focus continues to play a vital role in strengthening community storytelling and civic engagement.