Inspirations Entrepreneurial Award: Spectrum Productions recognized for championing neurodiverse creators
There are many ways to express thoughts and feelings; some use the medium of art, while others, video animation and film. For the past 15 years, Spectrum Productions has offered professional skill-building and film-making workshops to autistic and neurodiverse artists of all ages.
In recognition of their work in promoting client self-expression and career advancement, Spectrum Productions is this edition’s Inspirations Entrepreneurial Award recipient.
From its humble origins in 2009 as a summer camp to an independent film production studio in Montreal’s Mile End, Spectrum Productions demonstrates what happens when people are given a chance, said Michelle Bennett, director’s assistant. “Through nurturing the creative capabilities of autistic youth and young adults in film and media, we are trying to increase the public presence of neurodiverse creators in Quebec.”
In offering programs such as Creative Media Labs and Career Exploration, clients have access to top-of-the-line equipment and professional assistance for projects, from initial sketches to final execution.
While the company offers several introductory workshops, it also supports those looking to pursue a career in animation and film. Bennett said that having the Creative Media Lab open daily provides a reassuring structure to their neurodiverse clients and reinforces employability skills such as responsibility, teamwork and punctuality.
Clients have showcased their works at numerous festivals and venues, including Montreal’s Nuit Blanche and Fantasia, as well as the Festival International de Cinéma Adapté de Montréal (FICAM). One of Spectrum’s aspiring animators, filmmakers and voice actors, Adrien Nicholas, recently took part in an online panel promoting his short, animated film BackJump, which screened at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. “It’s an experience I will never forget,” he related, “Being autistic gives me a superpower for my work.”
In response to hesitation by film companies or art schools to hire their clients or accept them in their programs, Bennett said, “Any adjustment is minimal compared to the gains.”
Due to the increasing use of AI and fierce competition in the film industry, the non-profit has pivoted to offering more career support. In addition to their “Pitch It To Me!” program for developing professional level film pitches and a portfolio, their new Spectrum Public Access learning platform offers free online workshops to widen their reach beyond Montreal.
The studio will be hosting their annual gala on November 19 at the Rialto Theatre and will showcase over 60 short films created over the summer, including Nicholas’ comedy, How to Be a Villainnaire.
As a launching pad for neurodiverse artists, Spectrum Productions states on its website that it is seeking to “play a vital role in changing the conversation around autism to one of talent, creativity - and potential.”
Spectrum Productions also offers weekend activities, a Friday Night Social Club and summer camps.
