Since founding Upriver Media in 2016, Matthew Kennedy has turned a passion for storytelling into a powerful force for community change. Based in Kenora, Upriver Media is known for creating compelling videos for government bodies, First Nations organizations, and community foundations across Northern Ontario, but their influence goes far beyond the screen.
“Collaborating with Matthew over the past few years has been an absolute privilege,” said Mira Trebilcock, Executive Director, Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation. “His creativity, unique lens, and calm, thoughtful presence bring a sense of ease and excitement to every project. He has a rare ability to capture both the big picture and the smallest details, and his final product always exceeds expectations.”
Giving back has always been embedded in Upriver Media’s work. In less than a decade, Matthew and his team have donated nearly $13,000 to the Foundation, along with countless hours of in-kind video production, strategic support, and stunning visuals that have brought campaigns to life.
Matthew grew up in Kenora, and after time spent in Winnipeg and Vancouver, he decided to return home. “It’s a really good community to have a young family,” he said. “I don’t mind having my 9-year-old walk home from school. It’s a small, safe town and both my and my wife’s family are here. We have the village to help raise her.”
That same spirit of community fuels Upriver Media’s support of local causes.
From filming local fundraising dinners and golf tournaments, to producing videos that spotlight cancer survivors, addiction recovery stories, and hospital campaigns, Upriver Media captures moments that matter and often inspire others to give.
“Being part of these events—seeing businesses get excited to out-give one another, feeling the momentum—it’s contagious,” Matthew explained. “You want to be a hero too. You want to help.”
One project particularly close to his heart was the Beyond the Scan Campaign; several creative, narrative-driven videos made for the Foundation. “It was more than just interviews and b-roll,” he said. “It allowed us to get more involved creatively and that inspired me to start giving. Before I had my own business, I wasn’t really in a place to donate. But being comfortable enough as an entrepreneur, and seeing the impact firsthand made me want to contribute.”
That generosity extends into sponsorships too; Upriver Media consistently steps up with financial support for events, including a $2,000 golf tournament sponsorship that doubled in 2023, in support of the Par 3 Charity Challenge, driven by the Dingwall Group.
“Matthew and Upriver Media are deeply woven into the fabric of this community,” said Trebilcock. “Their support, whether financial, creative, or simply showing up, makes a lasting difference.”
For Matthew, giving back is both meaningful and practical. “Supporting the hospital, helping fund equipment you or someone you love might need someday; it just feels right.”