09/30/2026
Last day to apply to Youth Film & Freedom Academy 2026!
If you've been telling yourself it's too expensive, too late, or too hard to start, this program is for you.
The Youth Film & Freedom Academy is tailored for LBTQIA+ BIPOC creatives aged 18-24. This year's program empowers young storytellers to create, write, direct, and edit a 5-minute film in 4 days.
*Youth participants receive a $500 stipend for on-time attendance and completion of their film.
Apply by today via bit.ly/4xUxEdC youth-filmmaking/ or click link in bio.
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ID1: Person with headphones and a leopard print backpack crouches on an escalator setting up a camcorder on a tripod. Text: 5 reasons not to become a filmmaker (and why you should do it anyway).
ID2: Two masked people on a set lit in blue, one leaning on a chair, the other arranging pill bottles and papers on a wooden table. Text: #1 "I have no filmmaking experience"
ID3: Filmmakers on a hallway shoot: one holds a boom mic, one stands at a tripod, one gestures. Text: That's why we created Film & Freedom Academy, a free program for QTBIPOC filmmakers.
ID4: Person in pads and leopard print roller skates tapes a camera and Rode mic onto a skateboard on a bench, headphones beside it. Text: #2 "Filmmaking is expensive"
ID5: Person in a red tunic and vest films on a beach with a tripod. Text: The Film & Freedom Academy is free! We supply equipment during the workshop and youth participants receive a stipend*
ID6: Person in a light blue top sets up a camera with a fuzzy mic cover on a tripod at the beach. Text: #3 "What if no one cares about my story?"
ID7: Two people in peach outfits are interviewed on camera. Text: We do! Our instructors, mentors, crisis counselors, and fellow filmmakers are there to support your vision.
ID8: Three masked people pose with peace signs around a ring light in a tiled room, one wearing an orange bucket hat. Text: #4 "I don't have any connections in the film world"
ID9: Person films framed photos on a mat. Text: FFA connects you with emerging filmmakers and mentors & your film will premiere at the 2027 International Q***r Women of Color Film Festival.
ID10: Instructor points to a "Rule of Thirds" slide in a classroom while a participant watches. Text: #5 "I don't even know where to start"
ID11: Smiling group poses outdoors, hands raised. Text: Start by applying to be a part of FFA today! There are many ways to take the first step and QWOCMAP is here to support you.
