5 Shorts Project™

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Empowering Filmmakers, Transforming Communities

Learn filmmaking. Share your story. Make an impact.

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Apply for the Bout Mine I Matter Youth Video Production Program

We are now accepting submissions for our PAID CREATIVE INTERNSHIP for Teens ages 13-19.

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About Us

The 5 Shorts Project empowers emerging filmmakers and community members in Philadelphia to tell their stories through film, fostering creativity and amplifying diverse voices. Through hands-on training, impactful programs like Germantown Amplified and Bout Mine I Matter, and vibrant red carpet events, we combine art and advocacy to create meaningful change. Our mission is to inspire action, celebrate storytelling, and build a community where every voice matters.

Over 50 Filmmakers Empowered

We’ve trained and supported over 50 emerging filmmakers, ranging from teens to seasoned professionals, in creating impactful films.

SOLD-OUT PREMIERES

Our red carpet events have drawn over 300 attendees per screening, showcasing the strong community support for local storytelling.

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

Through programs like Bout Mine I Matter, we’ve helped teens produce over 20 films addressing critical social issues like gun violence, giving them a platform to share their stories.

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LEARN. CREATE. SUCCEED.

LEARN FILMMAKING

Ready to bring your stories to life? Our Learn Filmmaking page offers a comprehensive library of online tutorials designed for aspiring and emerging filmmakers.

Get Started

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Our Youth Programs empower the next generation of storytellers by providing hands-on filmmaking training, mentorship, and a platform to amplify their voices.

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PHILADELPHIA EMERGING FILMMAKER PROJECT

The Philadelphia Emerging Filmmaker Project is dedicated to empowering Black, Brown, and Indigenous filmmakers by providing comprehensive training in scriptwriting, directing, and producing short films.

Make a Short Film

STORIES THAT INSPIRE

“

My work with this program helped me to avoid juvenile detention and earn my GED.”

Amir

Bout Mine I Matter

Youth Program Participant

YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

JOIN US

Teen Film Fest
EventsNews

Teen Film Fest

5 Shorts ProjectMay 6, 20251 min read

Celebrate the creativity of Philadelphia’s next generation at the Teen Film Fest—an inspiring youth film festival showcasing powerful short films by local teen filmmakers. Join us for a night of storytelling, community, and connection as we spotlight the voices shaping…

OUR WORKS SPEAKS VOLUMES

A Diamond in the Rough

Lakesha N. Baker

Bout Mine I Matter – Full Circle

Shameka Sawyer & Etderick Bettie

Watch Our Films

IN THE SPOTLIGHT