I met April Johnson when we were both undergraduate students at the University of Victoria and were randomly placed in the same tiny residence building. With over 2,000 of us moving onto campus that September, meeting this way seems almost improbable, and still being best friends nearly two decades later, even more so.
For as long as I can remember, April has balanced curiosity with empathy, conjuring captivating conversations even with total strangers, finding goodness and unity where many wouldn’t. I didn’t know it then, but this innate inquisitiveness and care would translate into a successful career as a filmmaker and producer, bringing untold stories to the screen with the same compassion and joy she brings to her everyday life.
After UVic, April enrolled in Capilano University’s Indigenous Digital Film Program. She would go on to co-produce the Leo-nominated documentary Cedar, Tree of Life in 2017 and, in 2021, produce a short documentary entitled Stardust, which chronicled the creation of a memorial blanket for her mother following her brother’s overdose. She’s currently working on Season 2 of her children’s series, Kokum & Dot—an engaging live-action/animated show that blends Woodland Cree-style art with ’90s kids’ show nostalgia.
-Written by Jade Owen
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Which ’hood are you in?
I’m in Mount Pleasant. I have about 10 million pics of cherry blossoms and trees in the neighbourhood in my camera roll.
What do you do?
I’m an independent producer and writer/director. My mission in the film/TV industry is to contribute meaningfully to Indigenous-led projects and provide industry opportunities for emerging Indigenous creatives. When I’m not working, you can find me strolling the neighbourhood taking too many pictures of trees with my iPhone, or running (late) to a pole dance class.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently keeping busy on my first series, Kokum & Dot, through my production company, Ekosi Productions. Season 1 premieres this summer, and we started production on Season 2 in June.
Where can we find your work?
You can find out more about my current work on the Ekosi Productions website or on Instagram. Season 1 of Kokum & Dot can be found on TELUS channels and On Demand starting June 15. I try to be social on my personal Instagram too!
