Long-serving Manitoba-based Makeup Artist Margarita Vailas is leading a team of over 20 Manitoba-based film industry professionals in The Shoppers Drug Mart® Run for Women, which is taking place on June 8, 2025. Women, men, and non-binary individuals are encouraged to join the team, and they can choose to run or walk.
The Shoppers Drug Mart® Run for Women supports women’s mental health programming at Canadian Mental Health Association Manitoba and Winnipeg and will assist the CMHAs Across Manitoba to enhance programs and services to reach more Indigenous women, girls and families on their mental wellness journey.
“The response from our film industry has been outstanding. I’m very pleased this positive initiative can champion and help women and girls.” Said Vailas. “Our team would welcome more members and donors who wish to help find solutions.” She added.
Five staff members from Film Training Manitoba joined the growing team. “Five years ago, FTM launched the Supporting Women in Film Trades (SWIFT) Conference, and we’re so honoured to join Vailas’ Women in Film run team to support needed change.” Said FTM’s Allison Bile, Director of Workforce Development and SWIFT.
Margarita Vailas is a proud member of IATSE 856 and her film credits include Violent Night (2022), Night Hunter (2018), and I Still See You (2018). Vailas is a Greek Canadian who has been doing makeup and aesthetics for over 20 years, but has been full-time in film for 10 years. She’s worked in Winnipeg and all over Greece during these times. Vailas is a mother of two little boys and is an advocate for women and period poverty. She collects products to send to northern communities.
Donations to the Women in Film Team can be made here:
FTM is a non-for-profit charity and member of the Province of Manitoba’s Sector Council program funded through the Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources. FTM builds a highly skilled and adaptable film industry workforce to support the activities of Manitoba production companies. FTM collaborates and partners with members of the film industry to identify training needs to support workforce development.