The fact that there are thousands of young people across the US and the world who have important stories to tell. These stories can not only entertain, but also inspire and create real change in the world. Through film and the powerful filmmakers behind the camera, millions of people can be inspired.

I've been making films since I was 8. When I was 17, I convinced my parents to let me use my college fund to make a feature length film. It was the hardest thing I've ever done, but though my experience I realized there were almost no resources for young aspiring filmmakers. I also realized there were thousands of more young people like me, waiting to get their films made and seen by audiences. I've used film to both entertain and educate and inspire. Weeks after Hurricane Katrina hit, I drove from Los Angeles to the Gulf Coast to make a documentary on the aftermath. My documentary took a look at the untold side of the disaster; what the mainstream media wasn’t covering. Young filmmakers today are making incredibly mature and professional films and I think the world would be happier and smarter if more people could see youth made films.

NFFTY was formed in 2007 and started with a one night kick off film festival. In just 3 short years it has grown into the largest youth film festival in the country, showcasing work by over 100 young filmmakers every year and drawing audiences of over 4,000 to Seattle, WA. The festival is also a carbon neutral event and has special showcases of films that seek to inspire change. The event also features networking with Hollywood professionals, parties, concerts and much more. NFFTY has grown from an idea of 3 teenagers to an organization that reaches an ever-growing number of young artists (500+) and potential audiences in the millions through our Seattle-based programs and distribution partnerships. Going forward we want to expand our year-round programming nationally and globally and provide more resources for the next generation of great directors.

Submit a film, Volunteer at the festival, attend the festival in Seattle, watch films online (http://www.nffty.org) and spread the word about young filmmakers and their films to your friends and family.