Get ready for an exhilarating two-day cinematic extravaganza as the Miami 4 Social Change Youth Film Festival returns on Thursday, July 20, 2023, and Friday, July 21, 2023 at Miami Dade College, North Campus!

This must-attend event promises to captivate audiences with inspiring films created by young filmmakers and engaging workshops, all set against the backdrop of glitz and glamor on the red carpet. Attendees can expect to view short films, attend workshops, hear from media professionals, judge a pitch competition, and celebrate at the awards ceremony. Presented in collaboration with Miami Dade College North Campus and the School of Entertainment & Design Technology, this festival is set to be the highlight of the summer. The screenings are open to the public.

“We are thrilled to bring back the Miami 4 Social Change Youth Film Festival for its 8th edition,” said Dr. Saliha Nelson, CEO at URGENT, Inc., in a press release. “This year’s festival showcases the incredible talent of local youth filmmakers as well as emerging talents from around the world. Through the art of film, we aim to promote social change and amplify the voices of the next generation of storytellers.”

During the festival, audiences will be treated to a diverse and high-caliber selection of free film screenings, including captivating live-action shorts, mesmerizing animations and music videos, thought-provoking documentaries, and impactful public service announcements. These cinematic works serve as powerful vehicles for social change, shedding light on important issues and highlighting the voices of young filmmakers who are determined to make a difference in the world.

“The Miami 4 Social Change Youth Film Festival is a unique platform that celebrates the creative expression of young filmmakers while inspiring audiences to engage in social issues,” remarks Barry Gordon, Chair of Miami-Dade College’s School of Entertainment & Design Technology, located on the North Campus. “As a collaborative partner, not only is it our mission to further grow the talent of these emerging artists but to also create an inclusive and supportive community that nurtures their growth and social impact.” Gordon adds, “we are committed to attracting these young filmmakers to our outstanding, state-of-the-art programs in film production here at MDC’s North Campus.”

According to Joey Ashley, URGENT’s Film Festival Director, the event will also include workshops, master classes, and panel discussions for ticket holders to attend.

Here is a glimpse of the festival’s schedule at a glance:

Day 1:
09:00am – 10:30am: Check-In/Register

10:00am – 11:00am: Film Screening Block I or Break Out Sessions I

11:10am – 12:10pm: Film Screening Block II or Break Out Sessions II

12:15pm – 12:55pm: Boxed Lunch

01:00pm – 02:00pm: Film Screening Block III or Break Out Sessions III

Day 2:
09:00am – 10:00am: Check-In/Register

10:00am – 10:50am: Film Screening Block IV or Break Out Sessions IV

10:55am – 12:30pm: Shoot Your Shot! Pitch Competition

12:30pm – 1:10pm: Lunch Buffet

01:15pm – 2:00pm: Media Empowerment Industry Panel

2:00pm – 03:00pm: Awards Ceremony

The ticketed event is open to the public and is age appropriate for those 11+. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.urgentinc.org/youth-film-festival.