THE CAST
Meet the Cast of Just Kaz
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THE CREATORS
Shimon Machida
WRITER/DIRECTOR
Shimon was born in Tokyo and moved to Vancouver at age three, where he quickly developed a deep passion for storytelling through drawing and music. In high school, he played violin in the orchestra and painted intricate murals, while also gaining early industry experience by filming and editing live events at a local studio.
Shimon went on to study at Capilano University, earning a Bachelor of Motion Picture Arts. His short films were screened internationally, including at the National Film Festival for Talented Youth (NFFTY), the world’s largest youth film festival. His bold creativity and tireless work ethic led him to work with Rashad Haughton at Wonderstanding Japan Ltd., where he directed a range of projects from music videos to TV series development.
Now based in Vancouver, Shimon directs commercials and long-form branded content with a signature style marked by bold, high-contrast imagery and a dreamy, ethereal soundscape. His cinematic approach blends surrealist aesthetics with grounded, contemporary themes, creating a distinct visual identity. As a filmmaker of mixed Pakistani-Japanese heritage, who navigated life between cultures, Shimon infuses his work with deeply resonant themes of belonging and cultural unity—an exploration that gives his projects a compelling emotional depth and universal relevance.
Erica Papke
PRODUCER
Erica was born in Kelowna BC. With a background in various dance styles—ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, and lyrical—and experience playing piano, her creative pursuits were diverse. An avid reader and an enthusiastic photographer, she developed a passion for storytelling early on. This love for visual narrative deepened during high school in her media arts class, leading her to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Motion Picture Arts at Capilano University.
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After graduation, Erica started her career in the film industry as a Production Assistant on large TV productions, steadily advancing to the Assistant Directors department. In between union productions, she contributed to independent projects as a First Assistant Director and occasionally took on the role of Producer for commercials. Erica's journey has been driven by a deep passion for coordinating and bringing stories to life on screen, with a commitment to continually growing and creating within the industry.