Empowering the Next Generation of Filmmakers

GLOBAL YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL

Transforming the lives of underprivileged youth through the art of filmmaking.

The Global Youth Film Festival is a dynamic initiative dedicated to empowering the voices and talents of underprivileged young filmmakers. Our mission is to provide high-quality filmmaking education to students aged 13-18, offering them the tools and confidence to express their unique perspectives through film.

Who We Are and What We Do

THE MOMENT IS NOW

The Global Youth Film Festival, operating as the Caribbean Youth Film Festival, is a dynamic initiative dedicated to empowering the voices and talents of underprivileged young filmmakers. Our mission is to provide high-quality filmmaking education to students aged 13-18, offering them the tools and confidence to express their unique perspectives through film.

Over the course of our four-week program, participants engage in a comprehensive curriculum that covers every aspect of filmmaking, from scriptwriting and production to branding, marketing, and post-production. Guided by experienced professionals, these young filmmakers are inspired to explore their creative potential and tell stories that reflect their cultural heritage and vision for the future.

Curriculum Information

Key Highlights:

Duration: Four-week comprehensive program.
Target Audience: Students aged 13-18.
Location: Focus Nationally U.S. & Caribbean region, with global outreach.

Supported by local business associations, youth organizations, and educational institutions, the Global Youth Film Festival provides an invaluable platform for young voices to be heard and celebrated.

Why the Global Youth Film Festival?

Impactful Education: Our hands-on approach ensures that students gain practical experience with industry-standard tools and equipment.

Community Engagement: Participants are encouraged to address local social issues through their films, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to their communities.

Cultural Pride: We celebrate and promote the rich cultural heritage nationally and beyond, empowering youth to share their stories with the world.

Programs & Curriculum

Program Overview:

Our festival’s curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded introduction to filmmaking, ensuring that students gain both artistic and technical skills. The program covers key areas such as:

Scriptwriting: Learn the art of storytelling, from developing characters to crafting compelling plots.
Production: Gain hands-on experience with cameras, lighting, and sound equipment.
Post-Production: Dive into the world of editing, sound design, and visual effects.
Branding & Marketing: Understand how to create a film’s identity and promote it to your audience.
Treatments & Pitches: Develop the skills to present your film ideas effectively.

Explore the Curriculum Download the Program Brochure

Special Projects:

Community Service Announcements (CSAs): Address important social issues in their communities through powerful short films.
Fictional Short Films: Create narratives that incorporate local elements, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the community, town, or state.
Promotional Videos: Highlight the beauty of their communities as a top travel destination.

Explore the Curriculum Download the Program Brochure

Special Projects:

Community Service Announcements (CSAs): Address important social issues in their communities through powerful short films.
Fictional Short Films: Create narratives that incorporate local elements, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the community, town, or state.
Promotional Videos: Highlight the beauty of their communities as a top travel destination.

Explore the Curriculum Download the Program Brochure

LIKE OUR VISION?

Want to be part of a generation telling stories that matter?

Leave your mark in film.

Submit your request to join the movement or partner with us.

Get Your Child Registered

What We Offer

What Makes Us Different?

More than a festival—It’s a launchpad for the next generation of filmmakers.

Youth-Centered Team

We train and elevate young filmmakers. From screenwriters to editors, our team is made up of talented youth and seasoned mentors building together.

Unique Visual Experience

Our films capture the richness of community, landmarks, and vibe. These backdrops provide not only beauty—but authenticity and global appeal.

Fair & Accessible Participation

Every young creator should have a chance. That's why we keep pricing transparent, offer scholarships, and provide all equipment during production.

PROGRAM SOLUTIONS

Creative Tracks

Choose your path—or try them all.

Media Journalism

(Interviews, red carpet, festival reporting)

Narrative Shorts

(Write, shoot, and edit original stories)

Technical Team

(Sound, lighting, and camera ops)

Design Squad

(Posters, pitch decks, and digital content)

FILMMAKING PATHWAY

Orientation

Meet your team

Explore filmmaking roles

Dive into storytelling basics

Scriptwriting

Learn structure

Create characters

Develop your short film

Pre-Production

Storyboard planning

Scout locations

Prepare your pitch

Production

Hands-on filming

Audio/visual training

On-location direction

Post-Production

Editing labs

Sound design

Graphics & final cuts

Final Showcase

Community screening

Awards ceremony

Prizes, press & press kits

Testimonials

What Participants Are Saying

“This program gave me confidence. I didn’t know I could write a film, let alone shoot it. Now, I want to study media full time!”

– JAYDA, 16

“I came for fun and left with a full crew, a short film, and a new sense of purpose. GYFF changed my life.”

– DARIEN, 17

READY TO UNLEASH YOUR TEEN’S TALENT?

READY TO UNLEASH YOUR TEEN’S TALENT?

This is more than a film camp—it’s a hands-on experience where your 13–17-year-old will learn storytelling, filming, editing, and teamwork while creating their very own short film. With expert guidance and all equipment provided, they’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and a project they’re proud of.

FAQS

Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

What does the process look like from sign-up to final showcase?

Once you register, you’ll be placed in a filmmaking group and guided through a 6-day or 4-week experience—from concept to premiere. You’ll receive mentorship in writing, directing, filming, editing, and pitching.

How long does it take to make a short film during the festival?

Our program is designed to walk you through the complete process in just 6 days, with support at every stage.

Is there an age requirement to participate?

Yes. GYFF is open to youth ages 13–18. We also offer Junior Creator Tracks for participants ages 9–12.

Do you provide equipment, or do we need our own?

All filming equipment (cameras, mics, lighting kits) is provided on-site if done in person. You’re welcome to bring your own gear if you'd like—but it’s not required. If you bring your own equipment, we will not be responsible for it in any way.

Is there a fee to enter the competition?

Yes. To enter the competition, students must first enroll in the Global Youth Film Festival workshop. The competition is the final project of the program. There is a small participation fee that covers all workshop materials, equipment use, meals, and access to expert-led training sessions.

Do participants keep rights to their film?

Yes. Youth creators retain creative rights to their work. GYFF reserves permission to showcase and promote winning films through our platforms and partner events.

Is music licensing included?

Yes, music licensing is included. All festival films are edited using royalty-free tracks to ensure quality sound without legal complications. If your teen’s team wants to use a well-known commercial song, we’ll help guide the licensing process—just note that extra fees may apply in those cases.