Few people understand the importance of the arts and cultural sector better than Cameron Bailey. The artistic director of the Toronto International Film Festival, Bailey brings a comprehensive wealth of experience to his position, and under his lead the festival continues to grow in size and significance every year.

Today, Bailey announces the first batch of films set to be unveiled at this year’s festival. Above, Bailey discusses the career path and life experiences that lead him to his current role. In the interview, he says though he doesn’t have a personal motto, if he did, he thinks it would be: “Work harder. Do more. Get better.” When it comes to Bailey’s influence at TIFF, in Toronto, in Canada, and the world over, we think that sounds about right.