Ali Hassan is a comedian, actor, and writer who you’ll recognize as the host of Laugh Out Loud and Canada Reads on CBC. He has also appeared in films like Goon and My Spy, and numerous tv roles including Boston Blue, Odd Squad, Workin’ Moms and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. He should also mention that he was nominated for two CSA’s for his roles in Sort Of and Run The Burbs….but he’s not one to brag.
The Fire Horse Award, named after Reel Asian founder Anita Lee, honours Asian Canadian leaders who exemplify originality, creative vision, and leadership. Since its establishment in 2021, the award has held significant importance within the Asian Canadian film and media sector, serving as a tribute to those who have made meaningful and enduring contributions to the community.
The Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival is Canada’s largest pan-Asian film festival, showcasing bold contemporary cinema by Asian and Asian diasporic artists from Canada, the U.S., Asia, and around the world. Held each November in Toronto, Reel Asian presents a dynamic lineup of film screenings, panels, and special events, with programming and education initiatives continuing throughout the year. Founded in 1996, Reel Asian celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades of championing underrepresented voices and fostering dialogue through film and media arts.
401 Richmond Street West, The Commons (Suite 448)
Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3A8 Canada
(416) 703 – 9333
info@reelasian.com
Charitable number: 870021383RR0001
