
Student & Emerging Filmmaker Competition
Debuting in 2016, the Student and Emerging Filmmaker Competition gives filmmakers the opportunity to use cinematic storytelling to answer important themes like “what’s your civil right?” and “speaking truth to power.” The annual short film competition receives over 150 submissions from across the world. An esteemed jury of civil rights, industry leaders, and established filmmakers select the winners, and the shortlisted films are screened during the festival. Now in its eighth year, the competition has continued to attract industry supporters, including a diverse portfolio of funders. Prizes for this competition are funded in part by the generosity of Deborah Zipser and Craig Emanuel.
2023 Winners

Student Narrative Winner
Of Silence & Song
Directed by: Leyi Dai

Student Documentary Winner
I Am More Dangerous Dead
Directed by: Majiye Uchibeke

Emerging Narrative Winner
Sueños De Mi Hija
Directed by: Cecilia Romo

Emerging Documentary Winner
Troubled Waters
Directed by: Sydnie Heslop
2023 Runner Ups

Student Narrative Runner Up
GO DANI GO
Directed by: Chelsea Ramirez

Student Documentary Runner Up
Grandpa Cherry Blossom
Directed by: Maddox Chen

Emerging Narrative Runner Up
HERE
Directed by: James Anthony

Emerging Documentary Runner Up
BLACK STRINGS
Directed by: Marquise Mays
2023 Winners
Thank you to all of this year's applicants, finalists, and esteemed judges! We can't wait to see what you will create in the future. March On!
2023 Finalists
Project & Serve
Directed by: Espie Randolph
Category: Student Narrative
July 4th, 2020
Directed By: Joe Juanyao Zheng
Category: Emerging Narrative
On Language
Directed by: Cameron Joy Gray
Category: Student Documentary
Deciding Vote
Director: Jeremy Workman
Category: Emerging Documentary