Reimagining Dementia Through Storytelling: Sugar Dumplin’ on World Alzheimer’s Day
On World Alzheimer’s Day (September 21st), we joined a community of partners and supporters to reflect on the immeasurable value seniors bring to our lives and to spark new conversations about dementia. At Mid-Career Productions, we had the privilege of screening our short film Sugar Dumplin’ in collaboration with the Alzheimer Society of Ontario, Caribbean Vibrations TV Ltd., University Health Network, and Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice.
Why Sugar Dumplin’?
Our film follows a daughter’s journey to reconnect with her estranged father, who is living with dementia, by cooking the food of his childhood. Rooted in Jamaican culture, Sugar Dumplin’ is about much more than food—it’s about memory, identity, and love. For us, the screening was not only about showcasing a film, but about sparking conversations on how dementia can be reframed: not as an end to one’s story, but as a new chapter where connection, creativity, and care still flourish.
A Community Conversation
The audience gathered at Canada’s National Ballet School was deeply moved. Watching Sugar Dumplin’ alongside Dancer Not Dementia—another powerful short highlighting how dance restores dignity and joy—there were very few dry eyes in the room. These films opened space to see people living with dementia as whole, vibrant individuals whose experiences cannot be reduced to a diagnosis.
The afternoon also introduced the community to an important upcoming project: Dementia in the Afro-Caribbean Community, a television series exploring dementia through fireside chats with experts. It’s a continuation of the same mission: to reframe dementia by centering the voices and experiences of those most affected.
Beyond the Screen
The event was a full celebration—steel drum music, an art exhibit, delicious food, and the presence of friends, family, and community. It was a reminder that storytelling is not confined to the screen. It lives in music, in art, and in how we choose to come together to uplift and honor seniors.
Our Commitment
At Mid-Career Productions, we believe film has the power to heal, to challenge stigma, and to reimagine what is possible. By sharing Sugar Dumplin’ on World Alzheimer’s Day, we aimed to contribute to a broader movement—reimagining dementia not as a loss, but as an opportunity to deepen empathy, strengthen community, and honour the stories of our elders.
Images Captured by Tim Fraser/KITE Studio
