OCADU Live, touted as a student-driven, on-demand streaming service by the Ontario College of Art and Design University (OCADU), emerged in 2020 amidst the challenges of the pandemic, aiming to foster student engagement. The platform embraces a diverse range of content, spanning from short films to game shows and chat programs. Notably, it compensates students for their contributions while allowing them to retain ownership of their intellectual property.

Beyond its entertainment value, OCADU Live serves a deeper purpose: cultivating OCADU students as content creators. Ana Serrano, President of OCADU, underscores the contemporary reality that proficiency in content creation is increasingly indispensable for success in creative industries.

Spearheading OCADU Live is veteran filmmaker Dell’Anno, who acknowledges the initial discomfort among students regarding content creation. While some perceive it as conflicting with traditional art practices, others were already engaged in such endeavors, albeit hesitantly. Dell’Anno cites the example of the Brocad meme page, which boasted a substantial following among OCADU students but initially resisted collaboration due to anonymity concerns.

Moreover, OCADU Live operates as a production hub, generating content for various Toronto businesses, thereby providing additional income opportunities for students and recent graduates while contributing to the platform’s financial sustainability. Notably, it secured exclusive red-carpet accreditation for the Toronto International Film Festival, distinguishing it as a unique student media outlet.

Chris Markland, a fourth-year creative writing major, epitomizes the success nurtured by OCADU Live. Through the program, Markland transitioned from a creative rut to amassing a significant following on TikTok, where he merges comic book culture critique with his original works. Leveraging his platform, he successfully crowdfunded his inaugural short film, underscoring the transformative impact of OCADU Live on his creative trajectory.

Markland reflects on his journey, recalling the initial sense of stagnation during the pandemic-induced isolation, contrasted with the newfound direction and inspiration stemming from his growing audience and financial support facilitated by OCADU Live. This testimony exemplifies the platform’s efficacy in empowering students to realize their artistic aspirations.