Anne was born in Alberta, a province in western Canada, to a father who was a doctor and a mother who was a musician. This unique upbringing had a profound impact on Anne, as she was exposed to both the scientific and artistic sides of life from a young age. She pursued her passion for mathematics and music, earning degrees in both subjects. To fund her education, Anne worked as a performer, showcasing her talents on stage and screen.
After completing her degrees, Anne traveled the world, exploring Europe, Asia, and Africa. This experience broadened her horizons and sparked her interest in storytelling, which would eventually become a central aspect of her career. Upon her return to Canada, Anne joined a collective focused on creating political documentaries. Here, she had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, honing her skills in various roles, including shooting, editing, producing, writing, directing, and instigating dozens of short films.
As her skills and experience grew, Anne began to work as a freelance artist, taking on projects that allowed her to express her creativity and tell stories that resonated with audiences. In 1979, Anne married Garth Hendren, and a year later, she gave birth to identical twin boys, Quincy and Morgan. Today, both Quincy and Morgan work in the film industry, following in their mother's footsteps.
Throughout the 1990s, Anne established herself as a master storyteller, creating Canadian classics that won numerous national and international awards. Her work has been recognized with seven honorary doctorates and an Order of Canada, a prestigious honor bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to their country.
Today, Anne lives in White Rock, British Columbia, with her husband, Luben Izov. She continues to write, direct, and mentor filmmakers, sharing her expertise and passion for storytelling with the next generation of artists.