Kamala Todd

I was born and raised in Coast Salish territory, in the region known as Vancouver. I am a Metis-Cree and German Mother of two young boys. I make films, write essays, facilitate dialogue, advise on Aboriginal issues, and raise two wonderful boys.

I have a Masters Degree in urban Geography from the University of British Columbia. For six years (200-2006) I was the Aboriginal Social Planner with the City of Vancouver. I learned a lot about how decisions are made, and who has voice in the city. During that time, I created and launched STORYSCAPES, a project that creates opportunities for Aboriginal people and other marginalized communities to tell their stories of the city.

As a filmmaker, I have worked with the National Film Board, the City of Vancouver, the Chinese Canadian Historical Society, the Fraser River Discovery Centre, the Urban Native Youth Association, First People’s Cultural Council, and others. I am especially proud of the work I have done with Loretta Todd, my exceptionally skilled Mother, on her children’s Cree language show Nehiyawetan.

I am an adjunct professor at UBC’s School of Community and Regional Planning (SCARP), where I teach Video Production for Planners. I have also taught at Simon Fraser University, Langara College, and the Native Education College. I have made presentations and guest lectures at conferences, film screenings, and other special events, in diverse venues like the Museum of Anthropology, Museum of Vancouver, UBC, SFU, UVIC, film screenings, and many others. My writings have appeared in academic journals, magazines, and edited compilations.