Connie Cocchia

West Vancouver, British Columbia

Connie Cocchia’s advocacy within the autism community has helped change the lives of countless individuals and families. When few resources existed for those who have a sibling with autism, she created Growing Together. Anchored in personal experience, Connie built a sibling support group with tenacity and compassion aimed to connect siblings. Growing Together has hosted various sibling panels, workshops, fundraised and built a Games Room in Pacific Autism Family Network’s Hub. Growing Together also hosts an Annual Sibling Support Day, which has provided thousands of families with an inclusive movie theatre experience.

Connie combined her advocacy and profession as a filmmaker to write, direct, and produce her first feature film When Time Got Louder. The film had its World Premiere at the prestigious Frameline International LGBTQ+ Film Festival in San Francisco, followed by the Canadian Premiere at the Vancouver International Film Festival. Connie’s efforts for inclusion are shown through authentic casting and including members of the autism and LGBTQ+ community both in front and behind the camera. The film has been featured in over twenty international film festivals, won numerous awards, and received incredible reviews for its authentic and deeply moving narrative. Her film continues to enlighten audiences on the profound impact autism has on families, the importance of inclusion, and the unconditional love between siblings.

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