Ioannis Koutroubis

Producer | Writer | Director | Author | Educator

Montreal, Quebec, Canada – Rising Stars returns for an electrifying Season 2, shining an even brighter spotlight on emerging talent from Montreal and beyond. Hosted by the charismatic and multi-talented Roksana, this season dives deeper into the journeys, passions, and creative sparks of rising artists across film, music, fashion, and performance.

With her warm energy and sharp insight, Roksana brings out the best in each guest, creating authentic and inspiring conversations that connect with viewers on a personal level. As a host, she is fearless, funny, and full of heart. making every episode a must-watch.

Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a fan of raw talent, or just love discovering the next big thing before everyone else. Rising Stars Season 2 is your front-row seat to the future of creative excellence.

Uncover the Talent. Witness the Rise

We recently had the opportunity to touch basis with Ioannis about Season 2 of Rising Stars, here’s our One-on-One exclusive…

SM- Hello, what message are you hoping to get across to the people through your brand?

No matter how dark things get, keep shining!

SM- Tell us about what you’re promoting and the details around it?
My name is Ioannis Koutroubis, and I’m currently promoting Season 2 of Rising Stars, a powerful and inspiring talk show series that highlights emerging talent across Montreal’s vibrant creative scene. As the Producer of the show, I’m passionate about creating
meaningful platforms where new voices, artists, and visionaries can share their stories, struggles, and successes.

Rising Stars is filmed at Trebas Institute Montreal, where I’ve proudly been a teacher for the past 15 years. What makes this show even more special is that the entire crew is made up of my amazing graduates and current students, talented individuals who are already making their mark in the industry. This project is a testament to the real-world skills, creativity, and passion that are being developed right here at Trebas.

Each episode, hosted by the dynamic Roksana, dives into authentic and heartfelt conversations with up-and-coming actors, musicians, filmmakers, and creatives, giving them the spotlight they deserve before the world catches on.

With over 17 years of experience in film and television and more than 120 international awards, I created Rising Stars to celebrate the next generation and remind everyone that the future of entertainment is already here and its rising fast.

SM- What are some of the values your company has that separates it from other companies out there?

The values that guide me in building my business are integrity, loyalty, growth, and purpose. I believe in creating spaces where respect, trust, and hard work are non-negotiable. Whether it’s working with students, graduates, or industry professionals, I surround myself
with people who are driven, reliable, and passionate about what they do not just those chasing fame.

I also believe in investing in people, not just projects. That’s why many of the shows I produce, like Rising Stars, are built alongside my students and graduates from Trebas Institute, giving them real-world experience and helping them rise while we grow together.

For me, success isn’t just about results, it’s about how you get there. If we build with purpose, stay loyal to our team, and lead with authenticity, everything else will follow.

SM- That’s Aweseome! Who was a part of the vision that contributed to its success?

Absolutely, this project wouldn’t be what it is without the support of some truly incredible individuals and organizations. First and foremost, I want to thank our prior hosts, Michael Vidakis and Shaun Watt, whose energy and dedication helped lay the foundation for Rising Stars. Your contributions are still felt in every episode.

A huge thank you to Trebas Institute Montreal, not only for allowing us to film on location but for their continuous support in empowering creative projects and student-led productions. Your belief in this vision has made all the difference.

I also want to recognize my right hand, Lucian-Mihai Purici, who has been instrumental behind the scenes. Your commitment, work ethic, and creative eye have helped elevate the show to new heights.

Special thanks to award-winning Director Nickiesha Flemmings, whose talent and leadership continue to inspire us all, and to the entire Wolfpack team, whose passion, hustle, and loyalty are the heartbeat of Rising Stars. This show is truly a reflection of your hard work.

I’d also like to thank Action Papaspi for their ongoing support, and our sponsor, Urban Eats MTL, for believing in our mission and helping us showcase the rising talent of Montreal in such a meaningful way.

Together, we’re not just making a show, we’re building a movement. And I’m proud to do it with all of you.

SM-  Who or what is the motivation factor for you that pushes your drive?

What continues to motivate me is watching growth happen right in front of my eyes, whether it’s a student gaining confidence behind the camera, a graduate landing their first big opportunity, or an artist finally being seen for their talent. I’ve been a teacher at Trebas Institute Montreal for 15 years, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than helping others discover their voice and purpose.

As a Producer, Writer, Director, Author, and Educator, I’m driven by the desire to build platforms for others. I know how hard it is to break into this industry and if I can be the person who opens a door, shines a light, or believes in someone when no one else does, then I’ve done my job.

At the end of the day, I’m motivated by impact, not ego. Watching my students and collaborators rise, knowing I helped create that space for them, keeps me going every single day.

SM- What are some other things people can expect from you in the near future?

My company Cinemagi Productions will be filming several other talk shows this year along with a few Web Series that have started preproduction and production. We are currently writing several other series and a few feature films that we plan on starting production soon.

SM- Was there ever any barriers standing in the way but your glad you didn’t let it stop you? What’s the focus on now?
One of the most challenging things I had to overcome was being told I would never succeed because of my dyslexia. Growing up, I was constantly underestimated, and many believed I wouldn’t be able to write, direct, or even teach but I refused to let that define me.

Instead, I used it as fuel. I worked harder, studied longer, and stayed focused on my passion for storytelling and visual media. I transformed what others saw as a weakness into a strength. Today, I’m proud to be a Producer, Director, Writer, Author, and Educator, with over 100 international awards, a published book, and more than 15 years of teaching at Trebas Institute Montreal.

Every challenge taught me resilience. And the most powerful lesson I learned is this: when the world doubts you, you don’t give in, you rise.

For more information and to support her brand follow her on social media: 

Montreal, Quebec, Canada | Producer
https://www.youtube.com/@CinemagiProductions
Instagram: @koutroubisioannis
Facebook: @ioannis.koutroubis

https://www.instagram.com/cinemagiproductions/

https://www.instagram.com/instituttrebasquebecinc/

https://www.instagram.com/urbaneatsmtl/

https://www.instagram.com/roksana_ols/