PHILADELPHIA, PA | FILM & VIDEO TRAINING/PRODUCTION
Empowering the next generation of storytellers through film and community
Executive Director Shameka Sawyer shares how 5 Shorts gives teens affected by gun violence a platform to express themselves through film.
A transformative program that empowers young people to tell their own stories through film. Participants develop filmmaking skills while exploring themes of identity, community, and self-worth.
Learn More →Celebrating and amplifying the voices of Germantown youth through collaborative filmmaking. This program connects young creators with their community’s rich history and vibrant present.
Learn More →A youth-led visual journalism project educating the public about food insecurity and recent changes to SNAP benefits in America. Our interns investigate and report on these critical issues, bringing youth perspectives to important conversations about food justice.
Watch the Series →Empowering Philadelphia youth through film, storytelling, and community.
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Everything you need to know about our youth programs
Our programs are completely free for all participants. In fact, we pay youth a stipend for their participation, provide all meals and snacks, and cover transportation costs. No fees. No hidden costs. Just opportunity.
Bout Mine I Matter: Summer only, twice per week, 5 hours per day
Germantown Amplified: Spring and summer, twice per week, 5 hours per day
What’s For Dinner: During the school year (invitation-only internship)
Not at all! We welcome participants of all skill levels. We provide all equipment, training, and support needed to tell your story.
Programs take place in the Germantown section of Philadelphia. We serve youth from all neighborhoods across Philadelphia. Transportation assistance is available.
Beyond filmmaking training, we provide:
• Stipends for participation
• All meals and snacks
• Transportation cost coverage
• Workshops on violence de-escalation and trauma processing led by behavioral health counselors
• Small group attention (1 instructor and 3 interns for every 10 participants)
Yes! Parents and legal guardians are welcome to observe sessions. We believe in transparency and family involvement.
Bout Mine I Matter and Germantown Amplified: Contact us at hello@5shorts.org for application details and upcoming session dates.
What’s For Dinner: This is an invitation-only internship program during the school year.
Participants gain hands-on experience in:
• Camera operation and cinematography
• Storytelling and scriptwriting
• Video editing
• Sound recording
• Interview techniques
• Community engagement
• Professional development skills
We’d love to hear from you. Reach out with questions or to learn more about our programs.
Your support helps us provide free programs, stipends, meals, and opportunities to more Philadelphia youth.
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