Breaking into film and television takes more than just talent, it also requires initiative, resilience, and a strong sense of direction. For emerging filmmaker Piedad Aristizabal, that journey started in Colombia, where a love for storytelling set the stage for a career behind the scenes. After film school, she gained hands-on experience across a variety of roles, gradually building the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive on set. Piedad brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to every production. We spoke with her about her evolving role in the industry, how programs like Creative Pathways™ and Setwork helped shape her professional growth, and the kinds of stories she’s most excited to tell.
Can you tell us about your background and how you began pursuing a career in the film industry?
I am originally from Colombia, where my passion for storytelling and visual creativity naturally led me to pursue a career in the film and television industry. My journey started with studying Production for Film and Television, which gave me essential skills for behind-the-scenes work—such as scheduling, coordination, and understanding on-set procedures. After film school, I began working as a Production Assistant and worked with Background, placing them on set, and later took on roles including Assistant Director for television productions in Colombia and Canada. These early jobs provided me with practical experience on set and taught me the importance of strong communication and organization to ensure smooth operations.
What does diversity and inclusion mean to you in the film industry, especially as someone starting out?
Inclusion and diversity are all about valuing what makes people different. It’s about embracing all the different backgrounds, experiences, viewpoints, and ideas that make each person unique. When we give everyone a fair shot, we create a fun, supportive, and respectful workplace.
What drew you to Creative Pathways, and what stands out from your time with the Creative Pathways Team?
Creative Pathways serves as a vital resource for aspiring film professionals, offering comprehensive information about opportunities in Canada. It not only provided detailed information about available opportunities but also helped me better understand the roles and pathways within the industry.
What stands out most from my time with the Creative Pathways team is the personalized support I received. They helped me build a stronger resume tailored to film industry standards and connected me with a growing network of professionals. Their guidance gave me the confidence and tools. I’m truly grateful for their encouragement and the sense of direction they provided.
Through Setwork, what was your role on Wild Cards 2, and how did the project contribute to your growth as a crew member?
My role on Wild Cards 2 was a Production Assistant, and being part of a fast-paced TV series taught me the value of reliability and professionalism in building trust with a crew. It was an environment where I had to stay alert, take initiative, and support the team in whatever was needed, skills that I continue to carry forward into every new project.
In your opinion, what impact do programs like Setwork have on early-career professionals in film and television?
Working as a TAD through Setwork gave me real, hands-on experience with how a set actually runs. I have learned quickly how important good communication and organization are to keeping everything on track and being ready for long hours. Programs like Setwork are a game-changer for people just starting in film and TV because they give you real-world experience that you just can not get in film school. Some things you really have to be on set to learn.
Looking ahead, what kinds of projects or roles are you most excited to pursue?
Looking ahead, I’m most excited to work as a first Assistant Director and eventually lead my projects as a Director. I’m especially interested in directing documentary and TV show projects that tell real stories and connect with audiences in a meaningful way. Sharing my knowledge and experience with others is also important to me as I move forward in my career.
Learn more about Setwork and Creative Pathways™ programs here