VFF Awards
Fundraising Committee
The VFF Awards Fundraising Committee is an esteemed group of supporters whose dedication and commitment are instrumental in advancing the Vaughan International Film Festival's vision. Their invaluable contributions directly fuel the festival's growing initiatives — from world-class screenings and student competitions to the prestigious Awards Night gala — ensuring that VFF continues to flourish as a celebrated platform for emerging filmmakers on the global stage.
Committee Co-Chairs
Alex Rocca
Co-Chair
Alex is a Business Development leader in Canada’s financial sector, with extensive experience in commercial finance, strategic partnerships, and team leadership.Known for driving growth and building high-impact relationships, he brings a thoughtful and results-oriented approach to leadership.
Outside of his corporate career, Alex has a deep passion for film, music, and the arts. As a DJ and creative, he is closely connected to the cultural landscape and values the role storytelling plays in shaping communities.
As Co-Chair of the Vaughan International Film Festival, Alex is committed to giving back to the arts by supporting emerging filmmakers and helping elevate diverse creative voices. He is proud to contribute his leadership experience to an organization that champions innovation, creativity, and global storytelling.
Mahnaz Bellazzi
Co-Chair
Mahnaz Bellazzi is a community advocate and passionate supporter of arts and cultural initiatives in Vaughan. A longtime supporter of VFF, she believes in the power of storytelling and film to inspire dialogue, preserve culture, and bring communities together. Alongside her community involvement, she works as a nurse, dedicating her professional life to caring for and supporting members of the community.
She was actively involved in supporting the organization of one of the largest peaceful Persian gatherings in Toronto, which brought together over 400,000 people. Mahnaz is a member of the Cyrus the Great community, advocating for the people of Iran.
Through both her professional and community work, she remains committed to fostering unity, celebrating cultural expression, supporting initiatives that create lasting social impact, and helping communities come together to make memories.
Committee Members
Rita Giancola
Rita is an emerging artist with experience working with large groups on musical productions. She is a Canadian and Italian citizen, influenced and inspired by her dual cultures. As a drama teacher of over thirty years, she believes in the importance and power of the arts. Rita is a contributing author to the 4th edition of Social Perspectives on Death and Dying, she wrote Chapter 8, “Death Education and the Arts.” She holds a BFA from York University, a
BEd from Brock University, and a MA in Interdisciplinary Studies from York University specializing in Italian studies, music, and theatre. In September 2026, Rita will begin her PhD in Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies at York University.
Lee-Anne Galloway
Lee-Anne is the Co-Owner and Director of Generations Performing Arts Centre, Toronto’s #1 family-focused studio. Passionate about empowering young people through the arts, she brings extensive experience in arts education, leadership, and youth development. Lee-Anne is the former Director of the Randolph College Kids Program and is a respected teacher, choreographer, and dance adjudicator across Canada. She is also a Certified Teen Life Coach and Director of Teen Coach Canada. Lee-Anne has served as Fundraising Chair for Children’s Creative Corner NS and as a board member with Community Living Newmarket, supporting individuals with diverse abilities. Lee-Anne is deeply dedicated to helping children, teens, and families thrive. Above all, she is a proud wife and mother of two.
Vanessa Baudanza
Vanessa Baudanza is the co-owner of The Rolling Pin, a Toronto-based bakery celebrated for its nostalgic yet elevated approach to classic desserts. With over a decade of experience, she has built a reputation for blending traditional baking techniques with innovative design and bold flavour profiles. Under her leadership, The Rolling Pin has grown into a recognized brand known for its quality, craftsmanship, and strong community presence across the GTA.
Vanessa is a long-time supporter of VFF and much like filmmakers, Vanessa approaches her work as a form of storytelling—using flavour, design, and detail to create memorable experiences. Her work is rooted in creativity, connection, and the art of bringing ideas to life in a meaningful and lasting way.
Raquel Zanardo
Raquel is a seasoned realtor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience helping clients navigate the real estate market. Known for her dedication to excellence, she has earned numerous industry awards and built a reputation for delivering exceptional results for a distinguished clientele. Her business background includes a leadership role with one of the largest direct sales companies in the world, where she built and developed a team of over 300 independent sales representatives to consistently achieve bi-weekly sales goals. Raquel also serves as co-owner of her husband's landscaping company, where her business acumen has driven 20% sales growth in under a year. A true multi-hyphenate, Raquel brings relentless drive and a commitment to continuous improvement to everything she does by consistently pushing boundaries and raising the bar in every venture she pursues.
Chris Matos
Chris Matos is the General Manager at Chop Steakhouse & Bar located in the heart of Vaughan. Since COVID, Chop has been one of the fastest growing restaurants in Ontario, boasted by top review scores and an award winning four seasons patio. Chris has led Chop to two Northland Property Restaurant of the year awards, as well as winning General Manager of the year in 2024.
This success is driven by Chris’ loyalty and dedication to his community partners. Chris and his team are very active in helping different areas of our community. Chop has been the official sponsor of the Vaughan Film Festival Spring Launch for the past two years, and will be sponsoring the Student Screenings for 2026. This will also be the 5th year Chop has hosted the exclusive VFF after parties.
Debbie Groskopf
Debbie was born in Toronto and left home at 16 to study at Tel Aviv University, spending nearly two years immersed in a new culture that shaped her resilience and worldview. Returning to Toronto, she earned a psychology degree from York University and a criminology degree from the University of Toronto. She later completed a master’s in expressive art therapy in Cambridge, Massachusetts, grounding her lifelong commitment to supporting children facing adversity through compassion, creativity, and clinical insight. Debbie is a disability counsellor educator at York University, nearing 20 years of service. A cancer survivor, she recently marked five years cancer-free and now speaks to women about health, inspiring strength and awareness. Outside of work, she is passionate about animals, music, and artistic expression, embracing creativity and compassion in all areas of her life.
Antoniette Catenacci
Antoniette is a designer known for her refined aesthetic, impeccable craftsmanship, and dedication to creating timeless elegance. With a passion for fashion and an eye for detail, she specializes in luxurious evening wear and custom gowns that celebrate femininity, confidence, and individuality. Each piece is thoughtfully designed, blending modern sophistication with classic silhouettes to ensure every client feels both elevated and authentic.
Having dressed high-profile clients, Antoniette has built a reputation for excellence, discretion, and personalized service. She offers a bespoke experience from concept to final fitting, ensuring every detail is executed to perfection. Antoniette believes that fashion is not just about what you wear, but how it makes you feel—empowered, confident, and unforgettable. Her designs have become a trusted choice for weddings, galas, and special occasions, where every piece makes a lasting statement of style and grace.
Ann Tortolano
Ann is the owner of AffordaClassy Event Inc., an event planning company known for delivering elegant, high-quality experiences with a refined yet affordable touch. She specializes in event planning and day-of coordination, offering a one-stop solution with expert guidance on vendors, venues, and curated gourmet menus. With a strong background in weddings, conferences, and large-scale events, Ann also produces exclusive concerts and cultural festivals celebrating diverse cuisines and heritages. This year, she is focused on giving back by bringing the community together through a Greek Festival and Greek Dance in Vaughan.
Ann is dedicated to creating stylish, seamless, and memorable events that combine class, quality, and value.
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Support VFF's Virtual Silent Auction
Interested in supporting VFF?
Donate an item or experience valued at $250 or more and help fuel the next generation of storytelling in Vaughan. Every contribution goes directly toward VFF's education and programming initiatives — keeping world-class cinema accessible and alive in our community.
As a thank-you, donors receive:
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Two (2) tickets to VFF's Anniversary Screening (July 6)
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Logo placement on the VFF website
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Logo placement on the auction platform
Whether you're a local business, creative studio, or passionate community member, your generosity makes a real difference. We'd love to have you with us.
If you are interested in donating please contact: auction@vaughanfilmfest.com