The Metro Toronto Convention Centre transformed into a centre of pop culture as Toronto Comicon 2025 welcomed over 35,000 attendees from March 14-16. Among the celebrity guests, elaborate cosplays, and industry showcases, George Brown College's (GBC) School of Media & Performing Arts debuted at the event, offering attendees a glimpse into how their fandom could evolve into a flourishing career.
Where passion meets opportunity
"We're here to show these incredibly passionate fans that the characters they cosplay, the stories they love, and the digital worlds they explore can become their professional futures," explained Trent Scherer, Associate Dean of the School of Media & Performing Arts "Toronto's media industry is hungry for fresh talent who understand these worlds from the inside out."
The school’s presence at Comicon opened doors for meaningful conversations with exactly the right audience: young creatives already immersed in the worlds of film, gaming, and digital media.
The college's interactive booth became a hub of activity, with over 500 visitors stopping by to experience green screen photo ops that showcased the practical, hands-on approach that defines George Brown's programs. Staff and faculty were on hand throughout the three-day event, engaging with curious fans, answering questions about the college's media programs and sharing pathways into the exciting sector.
Toronto's creative ecosystem
Toronto's reputation as Hollywood North isn't just industry hyperbole. The city is home to a thriving film and television production sector, complete with world-class studios, post-production facilities, and a robust talent pipeline. This ecosystem creates dynamic opportunities for students looking to break into creative fields.
"The beauty of Toronto's media landscape is that it's truly interconnected," shared Ana Rita Morais, Dean of the Centre for Arts, Design and Information Technology. "Our students don't just learn theory—they're immersed in a city where animation studios collaborate with game developers, where film productions need visual effects specialists and social media creators shape cultural conversations."
Pathways to creative careers
The School of Media & Performing Arts's presence at Comicon highlighted the wide range of programs available to prospective students, from certificate courses in Media Foundation to specialized diplomas in Animation – 3D for Extended Reality and Film Production – Directing for Extended Reality.
For those seeking to refine their skills further, postgraduate options include Screenwriting & Narrative Design, Sound Design & Production, Visual Effects, and Advanced Social Media Production – Auteurism.
These programs don't just teach theory—they emphasize practical, industry-relevant experience. GBC proudly stands as the first institution in the Greater Toronto Area to offer hands-on learning with LED media wall technology on campus, ensuring that production and performance students can gain experience with cutting-edge tools used by professionals in the field.
Creating tomorrow's media landscape
As the lines between traditional media continue to blur and new technologies emerge, programs at the School of Media & Performing Arts will play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of creatives. From elaborate soundscapes to the special effects in the latest blockbuster, the fingerprints of trained media professionals are everywhere.
For those who were captivated by the worlds on display at the Toronto Comicon, GBC offers more than just an education—it provides transformation, turning passionate fans into industry professionals who will shape the future of entertainment.
Take your ideas to the next level with GBC’s Media & Performing Arts programs
Connect with creatives and explore GBC campuses at our Spring open house on Apr. 5th.
