Sheldon Shaw on Community, Access, and Bringing Michelle Ross: Unknown Icon to CBC

Rodney Smith
4 hours ago
2 min read

At Reelworld's 25th Anniversary Film Festival + Summit, producer, writer, and director Sheldon Shaw

stopped by to share an alumni update — and reflect on the journey behind his latest documentary, Michelle Ross: Unknown Icon.

From the Black Entrepreneurs Program to CBC

Sheldon was part of Reelworld's inaugural Black Entrepreneurs Program in 2022, in the Producer Stream — a turning point in his career.

"It was monumental," he shared. "I was able to connect with distributors and executive producers who really liked my project and wanted to see it move forward."

Through the program and the markets it opened access to, Sheldon built the relationships that helped bring Michelle Ross: Unknown Icon to life. The documentary tells the story of Canadian drag icon Michelle Ross — known personally to Sheldon as his uncle Earl, who passed away suddenly in 2001.

The film is now streaming nationally on CBC Gem and CBC Docs on YouTube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy8li7rdPSE

The journey wasn't overnight. Development took over two years — built through persistence, strategic connections, and trust in his instincts.

"I love to push boundaries," Sheldon said. "I had to go with my gut and follow through with the plan."

Fellow Reelworld alumna Allison Duke serves as writer and director on the project, reflecting the collaborative ecosystem that continues beyond the programs and festivals.

Why Spaces Like Reelworld Matter

For Sheldon, the biggest takeaway wasn't just knowledge — it was proximity.

"It’s very hard to be around a lot of people that are in film without these festivals and programs in place."

Reelworld created space for meaningful conversations — producers meeting networks, creatives meeting collaborators, and emerging filmmakers building lasting teams.

When asked whether the people he met would be part of his future work, his answer was immediate: "Absolutely."

25 Years of Doing the Work

Reflecting on Reelworld's 25th anniversary, Sheldon put it simply:

"You don’t get to 25 years by not doing the work."

Longevity in this industry signals impact and consistency. It signals commitment to building pathways for underrepresented creators across Canada's screen industries.

What's Next

Sheldon is currently developing two new documentaries. While details are still under wraps, his focus remains clear: build relationships, build strong teams, and continue telling stories that matter.

Because at the end of the day, film is about community.