Our Story

Three festival musicians playing steel drums outdoors in front of multi-story buildings, wearing matching beige t-shirts with a cartoon graphic and text, with a sign for the O'z Film Festival in the background.

Long Island has always been shaped by people and stories from across the Caribbean and Latin America.
You can see it in our neighborhoods, hear it in our music, taste it in our food, and feel it in the traditions passed from one generation to the next.

Two women sitting outdoors at night, one is speaking into a microphone and the other is listening attentively, both wearing beige jackets.

We created Q31 because we believed those stories deserved a stage of their own.
Our festival is a place where filmmakers, photographers, and visual artists can share work that reflects the beauty, complexity, and spirit of our communities.

It’s where culture is celebrated, conversations begin, and people from every background are invited to experience the stories that connect us.

Group of diverse people sitting and standing in outdoor public space, some taking photos or videos with their phones during a community event.

Welcome to Q31, where culture comes to life, one story at a time.

A woman with dark skin, braided hair styled in a bun, wearing earrings and a cozy jacket, is speaking into a microphone during an outdoor event at dusk, with a man standing beside her.

Harper Bella ( Director of Q31 Film Festival) & Ted Cavooris (Cinema Arts Centre Director of Youth Program)

Our Core Values

Rooted in culture, driven by access. These are the values behind everything we do.

Empowerment

Independence

Authenticity

Diversity

Accessibility

Through screenings, exhibitions,
and cultural experiences

Q31 provides a platform for emerging and established artists to share their work, amplify diverse voices, and celebrate the richness of the diaspora.
What began as a passion project has evolved into something more. We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead.
What sets us apart isn’t just our process—it’s the intention behind it. We take time to understand, explore, and create with purpose at every turn.

Our Story

Long Island has always been shaped by people and stories from across the Caribbean and Latin America.You can see it in our neighborhoods, hear it in our music, taste it in our food, and feel it in the traditions passed from one generation to the next.

We created Q31 because we believed those stories deserved a stage of their own.Our festival is a place where filmmakers, photographers, and visual artists can share work that reflects the beauty, complexity, and spirit of our communities.