Lisa Kannakko is a dual Canadian–American producer, director, and visual storyteller based between Toronto and Los Angeles. With over 25 years of experience, she creates emotionally resonant, visually sophisticated work across film, television, branded content, and digital platforms. Her work blends artistic depth with global market awareness, making her a valued collaborator on internationally focused, story-driven projects.
Her award-winning short Glad You’re Here screened at top festivals including Tallgrass, St. John’s, and Montreal Independent, earning multiple prizes for documentary, cinematography, and directing.
Lisa created and directed Live at The Belljar, a 36-episode music series featuring artists like Daniel Lanois, and has contributed to campaigns for FOX, CBC Music, Toyota, and Tim Hortons, known for their emotional impact and refined visual style.
She founded Open Show Toronto, producing 138 artist showcases, and received a Canada Council grant for her early documentary on Peaches. Her photography has received multiple Communication Arts awards and has been published in Rolling Stone. She was also awarded a Prism Prize grant, a national juried award recognizing excellence in Canadian music video production.
Lisa is currently developing a slate of globally oriented films, a graphic novel, and an animated TV series for transmedia platforms and co-production.