2022 Winner | A feature film, written, and shot in Nova Scotia. This film was created by a Nova Scotian screenwriter/director, producer, cast and crew. Dawn, Her Dad and the Tractor is a family drama that tells the story of a young trans woman who returns to her rural Nova Scotia home after the death of her mother, to make peace with her estranged father. As the two work to restore an antique tractor, they rebuild their relationship, coming – with many around them – to a deeper understanding of the value of family and community in providing safety and respect for marginalized individuals.

Dawn, Her Dad and the Tractor provides a great depiction of what it is like to be a trans Nova Scotian. A deep Nova Scotian connection is felt through all of the Nova Scotian content in this film. One example is the music in this film, it helps establish a strong and genuine Nova Scotian presence in the film. Dawn, Her Dad and the Tractor did an excellent job of telling a personal story through film.