ABOUT

MISSION

Our mission is to raise social consciousness by equipping under-resourced communities with the skills and tools to create media representing their culture and experiences. Through hands-on filmmaking training, mentorship from working creatives, and supportive production spaces, the 5 Shorts Project helps youth and adults turn their lived experiences into high-quality short films that inform, inspire, and strengthen community connections across Philadelphia, with a strong focus in Northwest Philadelphia.

VISION

Our vision is a Philadelphia where underserved communities have the power, skills, and platforms to shape how their stories are told. We envision youth and adults across Northwest Philadelphia and beyond creating bold, truthful films that reflect their culture, experiences, and brilliance, and seeing those stories celebrated in spaces that once felt out of reach. By making filmmaking education accessible, affirming, and community-rooted, we are is building a pipeline of storytellers, creative leaders, and culture makers who raise social consciousness, strengthen neighborhood connection, and transform what our city believes is possible.

VALUES

At 5 Shorts Project, our values guide how we teach, create, and engage with our community. We lead with Belonging, building affirming spaces where people of all backgrounds, genders, and identities, including LGBTQIA participants, feel safe to be seen and heard. We practice Equity in Action by removing barriers through stipends, meals, transportation support, and access to professional tools. We honor Cultural Truth by centering stories rooted in lived experience and community history, told with dignity and care. We believe in Artistic Excellence, holding high creative standards while meeting people where they are and helping them grow. We commit to Community Accountability, listening deeply, using feedback to improve, and sharing power with participants and partners. And we stand for Healing and Hope, recognizing storytelling as a pathway to connection, resilience, and social change.

Advisory Board

Angel Hogan
Research Coordinator
Drexel University

Tia Whitfield
I/T Associate
Temple University

Yvette Patton
Published Author
Award-winning Filmmaker
Playwright