Honoring Tracey Friesen: A Visionary in Canadian Media and Community Advocate

Tracey Friesen, a prominent figure in the Canadian television landscape and a dedicated advocate for social change, has passed away at the age of 58. Her untimely death on Monday in Vancouver came shortly after she was diagnosed with cancer in September 2024. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through the film community, particularly at the Whistler Film Festival, where she served as a board member. The organization expressed its condolences on its website, emphasizing the profound impact Friesen had on her peers and the community at large.

A Lasting Impact on the Film Industry

Angela Heck, the executive director of Whistler Fest, articulated her sentiments in a heartfelt statement: “It is a personal and professional loss that reverberates through our community now. Her positive energy and decisive, thoughtful demeanor could cut to the heart of an issue with precision, clarity, and kindness. Her mischievous blue eyes and sparkle are remembered with fondness. Our thoughts are with her loved ones. She will be missed.” This eloquent tribute encapsulates the essence of Friesen’s character and her unwavering commitment to the arts.

The outpouring of tributes from the British Columbia film community highlighted the immense void left by Friesen’s departure. Prem Gill, CEO of Creative B.C., remarked, “Tracey’s passing is an immense loss. A cherished friend and devoted colleague, her work made an incredible contribution to both our efforts and the cultural fabric of the motion picture industry.” This sentiment reverberated throughout the industry, underscoring her role as a driving force behind many successful projects.

A Champion for Independent Producers

For the past five years, Friesen had been the managing vice president of the B.C. branch of the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA), a position through which she tirelessly advocated for independent producers across Canada. Reynolds Mastin, the president and CEO of CMPA, expressed his admiration for her dedication: “Tracey was a bright light for our organization. She was relentless in her belief in the power of media to drive positive social change, and as a leader, her optimism was truly infectious. She cared deeply about people and about the planet.” This dedication to both her profession and the broader community exemplified her approach to media and storytelling.

Early Life and Education

Born in central British Columbia and raised in Deep Cove, a picturesque suburb of Vancouver, Friesen’s journey into the media world began with a solid educational foundation. She earned a degree in radio and television from Ryerson University in Toronto, followed by an undergraduate degree from the University of British Columbia, and later an MBA from Simon Fraser University. This diverse educational background equipped her with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the media industry.

A Diverse Career in Media

Friesen’s career began at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), where she worked on “The Journal,” a respected newsmagazine series. Her talent quickly became evident, leading her to join Rainmaker Digital Effects in Vancouver as a visual effects producer. She eventually transitioned to a role as director of sales and industry relations, showcasing her aptitude for both creative and business aspects of the industry.

Following her tenure at Rainmaker, Friesen dedicated 12 years to the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) as an executive producer. During her time there, she was instrumental in developing groundbreaking projects in documentary, animation, and interactive media. Notable works under her guidance included “Being Caribou,” “Scared Sacred,” and “Shameless: The ART of Disability,” all of which addressed critical social issues through innovative storytelling.

Leadership and Advocacy

In 2014, Friesen took on the role of Director of Programming at Vancouver’s Roundhouse Radio, further solidifying her influence in the media landscape. She later served as the director of communications at the David Suzuki Foundation until 2019. Her work with the foundation highlighted her commitment to environmental issues and social justice, aligning closely with her belief in media’s potential to effect positive change.

A Trailblazer for Women in Film

Friesen’s contributions to the industry did not go unnoticed. In 2013, she was celebrated as a Woman of the Year by Women in Film & Television (WIFT) Vancouver, honoring her significant impact on the representation of women in the media. Her commitment to empowering others was further demonstrated through her writing; in 2016, she published “Story Money Impact: Funding Media for Social Change,” a practical guide designed for independent content producers and funders navigating the complexities of financing media projects aimed at social change.

Legacy and Community Remembered

Tracey Friesen’s legacy extends beyond her professional achievements. She is remembered not only for her work but also for her vibrant personality, kindness, and unwavering optimism. Friends and colleagues recall her infectious enthusiasm and her ability to inspire those around her. Her contributions to the Canadian film industry will undoubtedly resonate for years to come, as she fostered an environment where creativity and advocacy could flourish.

Conclusion

The passing of Tracey Friesen is a profound loss to the Canadian media landscape and the broader community she touched throughout her life. As the industry mourns her departure, it also celebrates her legacy—a legacy marked by commitment to social change, empowerment of independent producers, and an unyielding belief in the power of storytelling. Her impact will resonate through the lives she influenced and the projects she championed, reminding us all of the importance of compassion, creativity, and community in the world of media. In honoring her memory, we not only reflect on her accomplishments but also strive to continue her mission of using media as a force for good.