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Change is happening

Filmmaking isn’t a mystery any more. Fifteen-year-olds can (and frequently do) make a music video or tape their friends beating each other up and within seconds upload it for the world to see. And all it takes is a cell phone. Like jeans and sneakers, camera phones and webcams are part of their every day. And, one day, not too far off, these kids will be making films, writing scripts and running networks.

YOUTH FILMS INTERNATIONAL t is pioneering an exciting adventure that aims to capture the imagination of tech-savvy students and arm them with the power to think about it’s impact. It’s a volunteer run series of documentary workshops giving a small group of students a real life documentary-making experience from concept to screening.

But this is much more than a ‘how-to’ series. This is about making relevant change that ultimately has a domino effect on many levels.

Beyond basic technical training, this series of workshops is intended to instill a sense of responsibility in students in what they present to their world, and what they contribute to the airwaves on a global level. Exploring issues of respect, ethics, and responsible film making are at least as important as developing strong writing or editing skills, as is the challenge to remain entertaining and engaging.

In its first 3 years YFI has already had a huge impact on the social conscience of students and carries the potential of offering something significantly fresh and entertaining to the landscape of television.

And, it doesn’t stop there.

Re-mentoring

The best way to learn is by teaching. Every student that completes the series of workshops is considered for the re-mentoring program. Re-mentoring invites them to return in following years to coach the new crop of students and share their experiences.

Youth Films was founded in 2008 by award winning television documentary producer and writer Frances MacKinnon.It combines Frances’ expertise as a TV producer and writer with a passion for telling stories.. Her work has been seen around the globe on Discovery Channel where she still works.

“Students are more media savvy and have more access to filmmaking equipment than they ever have before. But what they do with that enthusiasm and equipment is what I want to impact,” says Frances.

For more information email info@youthfilmsinternational.com