STAR POWER

Publicist and philanthropist Natasha Koifman gives us a glimpse into her fabulous life as she gears up for TIFF

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Few people have shaped the social side of the Toronto International Film Festival quite like Natasha Koifman. As president and founder of NKPR her eponymous public-relations agency she's been at the centre of TIFF's most glamorous and meaningful moments for the past two decades, curating party rosters, creating the IT House (a starry VIP retreat and gift suite) and building lasting change through her charitable work with Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ). Over the years, Natasha's star-studded guest list has included everyone from George Clooney and Sean Penn to Dame Jane Goodall and José Bautista - proof that, whether it's a Hollywood heavyweight or a global icon, they all pass through NKPR.

As TIFF celebrates its milestone 50th anniversary, Natasha invites Hello! Canada into her downtown Toronto headquarters to give us a sneak peek at what she's planning - from her A-list portrait studio to the invitation-only gala.

With her husband and NKPR creative director, Eric Hendrikx, by her side, she's more than ready to take on another September of sparkle, purpose and unforgettable moments.

TIFF is renowned for its world premières. Is there one that stands out for you?

I think the first year I really remember attending TIFF and watching films was 1998. I still have this vivid memory of seeing The Red Violin [starring Samuel L. Jackson] at the closing. It was quiet and emotional and completely unforgettable. It was the first time I remember leaving a theatre and just sitting in the feeling of it. Back then, TIFF felt like magic - a reminder of why film matters.

Your pop-up VIP sanctuary, IT House, is also one of the hallmarks of TIFF. How did it come about?