CREW
Ryan SinghProducer / Director/ Writer
Ryan Singh is an award-winning filmmaker with a proven track record in creating independent productions. His recent documentary “Memento: A South African Artventure” and sci-fi short film H..E..N..R..I. have played at more than 40 festivals across 6 continents. Ryan previously worked on THE BREADWINNER, a Golden Globe and Oscar-nominated animated film directed by Nora Twomey and executive produced by Angelina Jolie. The film is based on acclaimed author Deborah Ellis’ novel. Ryan secured the option to Deborah Ellis’ new book, “The Greats”.
Nikila ColeCo-Director / Co-Writer/ Producer
Nikki Cole is a writer/producer/ director of many award-winning documentaries, shorts, and TV series. She was recently selected to direct on the same Volume/ Digital Wall that Star Trek: Discovery is shot on, as well as developing new remote directing skills in True Crime Series. A critically acclaimed choreographer/dancer, she expanded into film, circling the globe with her 11-year-old daughter to create the Vision TV/PBS documentary WANDERINGS: A JOURNEY TO CONNECT. Her INTIMACIES won the Audience Vote for Best Documentary at the Palm Springs Int’l Film Festival.
Dayana StanislausCultural Consultant Executive Producer
Dayana is a passionate philanthropist. Having started her career as a Human Resource professional, Dayana Stanislaus has transitioned into entrepreneurship in such fields as marketing strategy and TV/Radio hosting acting, and modeling. As a women’s empowerment activist, she is seen as a leader in the community. Whether working as an actor, model, director, host, or event organizer Dayana dedicates her time to creating opportunities for others. She vigilantly continues her journey to empower and educate individuals to follow their dreams and achieve their goals regardless of their age.
Kirk TaylorEditor
Award-winning filmmaker, Kirk Taylor, has worked closely with Ryan Singh of Ryan Singh Productions, collaborating on various productions both locally and internationally. His recent edit of Ryan’s production of Memento: South African Artventure and I Dream of Africa was inspired by his upbringing in the Islands and subsequent upbringing in Canada. Kirk’s visit to Jamaica with his family helped shape his approach to editing Memento, emphasizing South Africa’s rich culture, struggles, and triumphs akin to his own experiences. Kirk blends this level of intimacy throughout his work.
Andres Galindo ArteagaMusic Composer
From the moment I was introduced to the teaser, I felt a deep resonance with the project. Coming from a background marked by similar parallels and struggles, particularly in light of ongoing international conflicts and genocides, I saw this documentary as a vital opportunity to lend my support and contribute to a narrative of resilience and advocacy. Taking on this project was both an honour and a challenge. Not only was it my first venture into composing for a feature documentary, but it also required a level of sensitivity and responsibility that transcended mere technicality.
Kerthekan BalasubramaniamSound Designer
RAY OF HOPE is a documentary with a special place in my heart. As a member of the Eelam Tamil diaspora in Germany, crafting the audio experience for this piece was not just a project; it was a personal journey. This documentary weaves through the emotional narratives of witnesses, their traumatic stories of loss, and their relentless pursuit of a better life for future generations. It was my honor to amplify these stories through sound. Creating the right soundscape was a wonderful challenge. My task was to capture authenticity, from the distinct wail of Toronto’s sirens to the unique click of pedestrian traffic lights in Canada.
Patricia's ScarlettProducer
Scarlett’s early experience in the industry began at TVOntario where she worked primarily in international sales. As a highly successful Sales Executive at TVOntario, she initiated and closed TVOntario’s first educational broadcast and educational non-broadcast sales in Brazil. During that time, she developed and nurtured a few valuable relationships with producers and broadcasters which have culminated in several significant professional achievements, including her representation of Ataranjuat: The Fast Runner, winner of the Camera D’Or at the 2001 Cannes International Film Festival.
Roger SinghDirector of Photography (DOP)
With over a decade of experience and over 50 credits in film and television, Roger Singh brings the consistency and professionalism necessary to meet what the modern industry demands. Such as the recently completed series, Becoming You, produced by Warner Bros UK for Apple TV+. Also, The Pirate Tapes, a film that went undercover and looked at the lives of Somali Pirates as they planned a future heist. Along with cinematography, Roger has produced feature-length documentaries that were acquired by Samuel Goldwyn Films, HBO, and The Orchard.
Vijai SankarExecutive Producer
Vijai Sankar is an award-winning film editor who predominantly works in the South Indian (Malayalam) film Industry. He has over 20 years of experience editing Feature Films, Documentaries, Corporate films, Music Videos, Dance Videos, Trailers, Promotional Videos, Stage Productions, and a vast variety of Audio Visual Snippets. He has more than 35 theatrically released feature films to his credit. The Malayalam feature film ‘Abu, Son of Adam’, which he edited, was India’s official entry to the Academy Awards in 2011. He is also the editor of the internationally acclaimed documentary series ‘Harmony with A.R. Rahman’.
Nirothini PararajasingamChoreographer
Nirothini Pararajasingam has been recognized as one of the most talented authorities and teachers in the world of ‘Bharathanatyam’. To showcase her natural talent, she formed the ‘Nirthya Kalanjali’ Academy of Fine Arts in Toronto, in 1990, and has been responsible for training and completing almost 23 Arangetrams for her wide circle of students. One of her strongest achievements is to give back to the community through her art ventures. Through her Dance programs, she has raised funds for numerous charitable organizations – including the Canadian Cancer Society, Tsunami Disaster Fund, Hospital for Sick Kids…
Tamil Entertainment TelevisionBroadcasting Partner
Under the leadership of Ragee Arasaratnam, Tamil Entertainment Television (TET) became an instrumental force in bringing the documentary “RAY OF HOPE” to life. Her guidance showcased a profound commitment to community engagement, ensuring the powerful message was amplified. Arasaratnam’s leadership not only championed the importance of female-driven projects but also solidified the platform’s role in advocating for meaningful storytelling.
Ryan SinghPRODUCER / DIRECTOR / WRITER
Ryan Singh is an award-winning filmmaker with a proven track record in creating independent productions. His recent documentary “Memento: A South African Artventure” and sci-fi short film H..E..N..R..I. have played at more than 40 festivals across 6 continents. Ryan previously worked on THE BREADWINNER, a Golden Globe and Oscar-nominated animated film directed by Nora Twomey and executive produced by Angelina Jolie. The film is based on acclaimed author Deborah Ellis’ novel. Ryan secured the option to Deborah Ellis’ new book, “The Greats”.
Reflections From Ryan SinghWRITER, PRODUCER & CO-DIRECTOR
As the director of RAY OF HOPE, Ryan’s vision for the film was to provide a voice for the voiceless and to shed light on the experiences of individuals who have been impacted by conflict and displacement. Through the lens of the lead subject, Rathika Sitsabaiesan, the film explores the human capacity for resilience and hope in the face of trauma. Ryan uses a combination of stunning visuals, music, and sound design to transport the audience to the heart of the story. He creates a visceral experience that immerses audiences in the emotional journey of the characters leaving them with a lasting impression. Ryan’s non-traditional approach to the selection of participants resulted in each of them bringing a unique perspective to the story thus strengthening the authenticity of the film. Every participant in the film has a personal connection to the subject matter; some participated in the resistance, others experienced displacement. They worked closely with the production team to ensure that their stories are accurately represented. Regarding language, the film is primarily in English, with segments in Tamil, French, and American Sign Language (ASL), with English subtitles to stay true to the subject’s reality. The use of these languages is essential in conveying the depth of emotion and meaning that would be lost in translation. Ryan’s vision for RAY OF HOPE is the creation of a cinematic experience that is emotionally resonant, visually stunning, and authentic in its portrayal of the experiences of those impacted by conflict and displacement.
Nikila ColeCo-Director / Co-Writer/ Producer
Nikki Cole is a writer/producer/ director of many award-winning documentaries, shorts, and TV series. She was recently selected to direct on the same Volume/ Digital Wall that Star Trek: Discovery is shot on, as well as developing new remote directing skills in True Crime Series. A critically acclaimed choreographer/dancer, she expanded into film, circling the globe with her 11-year-old daughter to create the Vision TV/PBS documentary WANDERINGS: A JOURNEY TO CONNECT. Her INTIMACIES won the Audience Vote for Best Documentary at the Palm Springs Int’l Film Festival. After a career in over 15 factual TV series, she expanded into fiction, directing THE NEXT STEP for BBC Kids, and an award-winning short, MY FATHER JOE (Amazon Prime). Her script for the historical fiction series SERPENT QUEEN won Best Pilot Screenplay at the Oaxaca Film Festival, and her feature The Bride’s Wedding was a Finalist at the CBC-TIFF Competition. She is currently on the Screening Committee for the Diversity in Cannes Film Festival. For the past 15 years, her organization Tonembee has been providing solar cookers and high school and university education to girls and boys in a rural village in Kenya.
Reflections from Nikila ColeCo-Director / Co-Writer/ Producer
I was more than intrigued when Ryan brought me his harrowing story of surviving lockdown and potential arrest when he accompanied Rathika Sitsabaiesan on her return to Sri Lanka 27 years after fleeing war and destruction as a little girl. As the granddaughter of Jewish refugees who fled the pogroms of Russia and Germany, I have an innate understanding and empathy for the plight of child refugees and the inter-generational trauma that they and their families endure. Even though I was vaguely aware of the war tragedies in Sri Lanka, it was very far away and long ago, and, now that I’m currently researching the story, I realize the important resonance this ongoing battle has with many similarities to what is currently going on both in Sri Lanka and other countries throughout the world. We all have much to learn from Rathika’s experiences and evolution. A survivor of sexual assault myself, I am all too aware of the long journey a victim experiences on the road to healing when dealing with PTSD, survivor guilt, ongoing fears, and many other issues, all while trying to find one’s place in the world in the desire to turn the chaos and darkness into something positive for the greater good. Even though it wasn’t as severe, I was traumatized when I visited the Soviet Union on the first Choreographers’ Exchange between the United States and the Soviet Union in 1986. Gnawing fear accompanied me everywhere I went as I was followed by KGB agents, especially when, after our phone conversations were scrambled, I visited an ‘unofficial’ artist on a noisy train platform to slip him what he had requested: a copy of Time Magazine (this was forbidden reading at the time). Normal freedoms that we take for granted in Canada were suddenly on the verge of being taken away and replaced by gut-wrenching fears that can stop you in your tracks. When I saw the footage of Rathika and Ryan in Sri Lanka coping with their trauma and fears – sometimes with deflection, always with courage, I realized that understanding this kind of distress and the wide-reaching effects it has on a person and their world AND how they heal from it, holds valuable lessons for us all in an ever-increasing tension-filled world. Working as a co-director and co-writer can be challenging, and I feel so honoured and grateful to have plunged into the depths of this important and impactful story beside Ryan Singh and the amazing team and crew he put together. Thank you, Rathika and the Tamil community for trusting us with deeply sensitive issues and having the courage to shine a light on your courageous lives.
Reflections From Kirk TaylorEditor
As the editor of a film addressing the genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka, my journey through this project has been both professionally demanding and ethically profound. Navigating the delicate balance between storytelling and the moral responsibility to truthfully depict historical events proved to be a challenge that extended beyond technical proficiency. The raw footage, testimonials, and archival materials compelled me to approach each frame and cut with a heightened sensitivity to the gravity of the subject matter.
In the editing room, I found myself engaged in a continuous process of reflection, grappling with the responsibility to amplify the voices of survivors and victims. Collaborating closely with the director and the creative team, our goal was to weave together a narrative that conveyed the emotional toll of the genocide while respecting the strength and resilience of those who endured the tragedy. The weight of this responsibility became increasingly apparent as we aimed to strike a balance between realism and artistic expression, ensuring that our work not only exposed the truth but also honored the lived experiences of the Tamil community.
Ultimately, the film emerged as a powerful vessel for collective remembrance and a call to action against the injustices faced by the Tamil people. The editing process transcended technical considerations,
evolving into a commitment to truth, empathy, and justice. This experience stands as a testament to the profound impact storytelling can have on our collective consciousness, underscoring the importance of bearing witness to untold stories and fostering a deeper understanding of historical atrocities.
Reflections from Andres Galindo ArteagaMusic Composer
From the moment I was introduced to the teaser, I felt a deep resonance with the project. Coming from a background marked by similar parallels and struggles, particularly in light of ongoing international conflicts and genocides, I saw this documentary as a vital opportunity to lend my support and contribute to a narrative of resilience and advocacy. Taking on this project was both an honour and a challenge. Not only was it my first venture into composing for a feature documentary, but it also required a level of sensitivity and responsibility that transcended mere technicality. The subject matter centred around real-life genocide and political turmoil demanded a nuanced approach that diverged from my previous experiences in scripted narratives. Nevertheless, it was a challenge I eagerly embraced, recognizing the importance of amplifying the voices of the Tamil community and shedding light on their enduring struggle for recognition and justice.
Collaborating with the RAY OF HOPE team was a transformative experience. I had the privilege of working alongside incredibly talented individuals who shared a collective commitment to crafting a powerful and resonant story. Together, we navigated creative challenges and embarked on a journey of discovery, culminating in a score that not only captured the essence of the documentary but also paid homage to the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil people. The inclusion of Tamil musicians in the score was vital to achieving this level of tonality and musical identity on the score.
As I reflect on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to a project of such profound significance. Beyond personal growth as a composer, RAY OF HOPE represents a triumph for the Tamil community, a testament to their resilience, identity, and unwavering determination to be heard on the global stage. In closing, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to you Ryan, Nikila, Rathika, my amazing music department, and each member of the team for their dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to this important story. It has been an honor and a privilege to be part of RAY OF HOPE, and I look forward to sharing its message of resilience and advocacy with audiences worldwide. I am hoping to tell more stories with you Ryan, this has been a remarkable experience and I am looking forward to continuing this creative journey.
Patricia's ScarlettProducer
Scarlett’s early experience in the industry began at TVOntario where she worked primarily in international sales. As a highly successful Sales Executive at TVOntario, she initiated and closed TVOntario’s first educational broadcast and educational non-broadcast sales in Brazil. During that time, she developed and nurtured a few valuable relationships with producers and broadcasters which have culminated in several significant professional achievements, including her representation of Ataranjuat: The Fast Runner, winner of the Camera D’Or at the 2001 Cannes International Film Festival. She regularly attends industry trade events such as MIP-TV & MIPCOM in Cannes, France. Scarlett’s production credits include the following: “Of Cod & Rum: The Newfoundland Connection” (Documentary Feature); “RasTa: A Soul’s Journey” (Documentary Feature); “Rastafari Then and Now: A Message From Jamaica” (Documentary); “Crazy Opera” (Animated Christmas Special); “Mighty Machines”, Season 2 (Children’s-Live Action Series). Patricia’s debut novel, Blinded by the Brass Ring, was published by Baraka Books spring 2023.
Dayana StanislausCultural Consultant Executive Producer
Dayana is a passionate philanthropist. Having started her career as a Human Resource professional, Dayana Stanislaus has transitioned into entrepreneurship in such fields as marketing strategy and TV/Radio hosting acting, and modeling. As a women’s empowerment activist, she is seen as a leader in the community. Whether working as an actor, model, director, host, or event organizer Dayana dedicates her time to creating opportunities for others. She vigilantly continues her journey to empower and educate individuals to follow their dreams and achieve their goals regardless of their age. Dayana is the recipient of the International Best Women, People’s Choice, and Community Ambassador awards. Dayana was a CMPA Mentee in 2022 and was selected as a member of the 2023 BANFF/Netflix’s Diversity of Voice cohort. She was also 1 of 25 people selected to pitch at the BANFF World Media Festival.
Reflections from Dayana StanislausCultural Consultant
In the diverse tapestry of Canada’s multicultural society, stories of immigration weave a narrative of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of a better life. As a cultural consultant from the Tamil community, I find immense pride and purpose in my role within the documentary film RAY OF HOPE This film serves as a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience, focusing on the lens of the Sri Lankan Tamil community. Born in Tamil Eelam, a region rich in history and culture, I embarked on a journey that ultimately led me to Canada – a nation synonymous with inclusivity and opportunity. My odyssey mirrors the stories of countless others within the Tamil community, making me not just a consultant but a living testament to the immigrant narrative explored in RAY OF HOPE. The documentary delves into the intricacies of the Sri Lankan Tamil immigrant experience, offering a nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced and triumphs achieved. It is a platform to share our collective stories, shedding light on the resilience, determination, and cultural richness that immigrants bring to their adopted homeland. As a cultural consultant, my role extends beyond the mere translation of language or interpretation of customs. I strive to ensure authenticity in every frame, capturing the essence of Tamil identity in its myriad forms – from the vibrant festivals that bind our community to the subtle nuances of everyday life. It is a responsibility I hold dear, as I believe in the power of storytelling to foster understanding and unity. Living in Canada as a citizen, I have witnessed the transformative impact of narratives that bridge cultures. RAY OF HOPE goes beyond documenting personal anecdotes; it is a celebration of diversity, an ode to the mosaic that is Canada. Through the lens of the Sri Lankan Tamil community, the film articulates the universal themes of resilience, family, and the pursuit of a brighter future. Our community’s story is not just about departure; it is equally about integration and contribution. It speaks of the challenges faced when adapting to a new homeland, but also of the vibrant tapestry woven by the collective efforts of the Tamil diaspora. The documentary aims to inspire, educate, and foster empathy – an endeavor that aligns seamlessly with the values that define Canada. In my capacity as a cultural consultant, I am privileged to play a role in amplifying the voices of the Tamil community within the broader Canadian narrative. RAY OF HOPE is not just a documentary; it is a cultural exchange, a testament to the strength derived from diversity, and a bridge that connects the rich heritage of Tamil Eelam to the multicultural fabric of Canada. As we work towards the completion of RAY OF HOPE, I am reminded of the profound impact that personal narratives can have in shaping perceptions and fostering a sense of unity. Through this documentary, we aim to contribute to a shared understanding of the immigrant experience, cultivating a collective consciousness that transcends borders and celebrates the universal threads that bind us all.
Roger SinghDirector of Photography (DOP)
With over a decade of experience and over 50 credits in film and television, Roger Singh brings the consistency and professionalism necessary to meet what the modern industry demands. Such as the recently completed series, Becoming You, produced by Warner Bros UK for Apple TV+. Also, The Pirate Tapes, a film that went undercover and looked at the lives of Somali Pirates as they planned a future heist. Along with cinematography, Roger has produced feature-length documentaries that were acquired by Samuel Goldwyn Films, HBO, and The Orchard.
Kirk TaylorEditor
Award-winning filmmaker, Kirk Taylor, has worked closely with Ryan Singh of Ryan Singh Productions, collaborating on various productions both locally and internationally. His recent edit of Ryan’s production of Memento: South African Artventure and I Dream of Africa was inspired by his upbringing in the Islands and subsequent upbringing in Canada. Kirk’s visit to Jamaica with his family helped shape his approach to editing Memento, emphasizing South Africa’s rich culture, struggles, and triumphs akin to his own experiences. Kirk blends this level of intimacy throughout his work.
Vijai SankarExecutive Producer
Vijai Sankar is an award-winning film editor who predominantly works in the South Indian (Malayalam) film Industry. He has over 20 years of experience editing Feature Films, Documentaries, Corporate films, Music Videos, Dance Videos, Trailers, Promotional Videos, Stage Productions, and a vast variety of Audio Visual Snippets. He has more than 35 theatrically released feature films to his credit. The Malayalam feature film ‘Abu, Son of Adam’, which he edited, was India’s official entry to the Academy Awards in 2011. He is also the editor of the internationally acclaimed documentary series ‘Harmony with A.R. Rahman’. He also teaches editing in several media institutes and film institutes in Kerala, India. He also teaches editing in several media institutes and film institutes in Kerala, India.
Nirothini PararajasingamChoreographer
Nirothini Pararajasingam has been recognized as one of the most talented authorities and teachers in the world of ‘Bharathanatyam’. To showcase her natural talent, she formed the ‘Nirthya Kalanjali’ Academy of Fine Arts in Toronto, in 1990, and has been responsible for training and completing almost 23 Arangetrams for her wide circle of students. One of her strongest achievements is to give back to the community through her art ventures. Through her Dance programs, she has raised funds for numerous charitable organizations – including the Canadian Cancer Society, Tsunami Disaster Fund, Hospital for Sick Kids, Scarborough General Hospital, Rouge Valley Hospital, Holland Bloor-view Kids Rehabilitation, and Heart & Stroke Foundation, to name a few. For her role in caring for the community, she has received numerous awards including the Lieutenant Governor Award in 2010.
Tamil Entertainment TelevisionBroadcasting Partner
Under the leadership of Ragee Arasaratnam, Tamil Entertainment Television (TET) became an instrumental force in bringing the documentary “RAY OF HOPE” to life. Her guidance showcased a profound commitment to community engagement, ensuring the powerful message was amplified. Arasaratnam’s leadership not only championed the importance of female-driven projects but also solidified the platform’s role in advocating for meaningful storytelling.
Reflections From Kerthekan BalasubramaniamSound Designer
RAY OF HOPE is a documentary with a special place in my heart. As a member of the Eelam Tamil diaspora in Germany, crafting the audio experience for this piece was not just a project; it was a personal journey. This documentary weaves through the emotional narratives of witnesses, their traumatic stories of loss, and their relentless pursuit of a better life for future generations. It was my honor to amplify these stories through sound. Creating the right soundscape was a wonderful challenge. My task was to capture authenticity, from the distinct wail of Toronto’s sirens to the unique click of pedestrian traffic lights in Canada. I dove into the rich acoustic land-scape of Eelam, seeking out local wildlife sounds, such as the peacock’s call or the chatter of squirrels, the unmistakable timbre of motorcycles, buses and their vibrant horns, and the rattling engines of Tuk Tuks. Having only visited Eelam once in my early years, I couldn’t solely rely on my memory to ensure the authenticity of the sounds. This is where my mother, with her vivid recollections of life back at home, played a crucial role. Her ears became the ultimate test, identifying any birdsong that did not belong. Tamil culture is rich and multifaceted, its beauty often expressed through the arts, which also includes a world of sound. Take for instance, the traditional Tamil dance of Bharatanatyam. The dancers adorn their ankles with ankle bells (“Kaal Salangai”) that sing in harmony with their movements. To capture this sound, I re-enacted the dance movements using my sister’s old “Kaal Salangai,” ensuring the audio mirrored the dancers’ performance. A particularly memorable moment was when I recreated the sound of Tamil jewelry. In our culture, women wear sets of bracelets called “Kaapu,” which chime with their movements. I enlisted the help of my sister, mother, and niece, who brought a massive box of Kaapus to my studio. Together, we selected the pieces that produced the most resonant sounds. Their advice to me was indispensable: “These sound beautiful,” “Those are too dull,” and most importantly, “They sound best when worn on the wrist.” It was the greatest pleasure to craft a journey with sound, with detail in sound design and rich sound montages. I am immensely thankful for my sound team, whose commitment and skills were crucial to this sizable challenge. Their dedication, time, and expertise allowed me to give voice to the unspoken stories that lay at the heart of our community.