Former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has launched a media and entertainment production company with his longtime chief of staff Katie Telford.
The venture, named Hope and Hard Work, was announced through a newly-launched website on Friday.
According to reports, the project will focus on producing stories intended to foster understanding and connections between people through film, television, audio and live experiences.
The company’s name reflects a phrase Trudeau repeatedly used in public speeches after taking over as leader of Canada’s Liberal Party in 2013.
He continued using it during his nine years as prime minister, from 2015 to 2025.
The launch comes as the Toronto International Film Festival gets underway. The festival began on Thursday and is scheduled to continue through September 20.
Trudeau, 54, left the prime minister’s office earlier this year after announcing his decision to step down as Liberal leader in January last year.
His departure followed growing pressure from members of his party, who were concerned about its declining support ahead of a general election.
He was succeeded by Mark Carney, another member of the Liberal Party.
Since leaving government, Trudeau has largely stayed out of public spotlight, although he has continued to make occasional public appearances.
He has also attracted attention over his reported relationship with US pop star Katy Perry.
