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Call for Entries! Mobile Video Competition: Cultivating Youth Stories for Change

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE​

March 20, 2026

National Mobile Film Competition Returns, Elevating Youth Voices on Food Justice​

Grand Rapids, Mich. and Westport, Conn. – Mosaic Film Experience today announced the return of Nourishing Narratives: Cultivating Youth Stories for Change, a national mobile film competition empowering youth to explore food justice through storytelling.

Presented in partnership with Newman’s Own Foundation, the initiative invites students ages 13–18 across the United States to create short films (up to three minutes) using only mobile devices. No prior filmmaking experience is required.

The competition centers on the theme “Creating Better Food Futures” and challenges participants to include:

• A plate or bowl as a visual element
• The phrase “Change Starts With Us” (spoken, written, or displayed)

Students are encouraged to explore real-world solutions, highlight individuals and organizations making a difference, and reimagine a more equitable food system.

“The mobile nature of the Nourishing Narratives film competition challenges the conventions of storytelling and provides students with a platform to share their unique perspectives in innovative ways,” said Skot Welch, Founder and President of Mosaic Film Experience.

Competition Details & Key Dates​

• March 6, 2026 – Entry period opens (via FilmFreeway)
• April 12, 2026 – Final submission deadline
• April 20, 2026 – First round of judging
• June 26, 2026 – Winners announced

Enter Your Film:
https://filmfreeway.com/nourishing-narratives

Awards & Recognition​

A diverse jury will select top entries to be featured on the official YouTube channel. Up to 10 winners will each receive:

• $1,000 cash prize
• Newman’s Own prize package
• Recognition at an exclusive event with leaders in film and food justice

Watch & Explore​

• YouTube Channel (Shorts):
  https://www.youtube.com/@NourishingNarratives/shorts
• 2025 Winners:
  https://www.nourishing-narratives.com/2025-winners

Why Bring This to Your Students​

Educational Benefits:

• Standards Alignment: Meets Common Core ELA, NGSS (sustainability), NCSS Social Studies, and ISTE technology standards
• Project-Based Learning: Hands-on experience in research, interviewing, scriptwriting, and multimedia production
• 21st-Century Skills: Builds critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, and digital literacy
• Social-Emotional Learning: Develops empathy and awareness of community issues
• Student Voice & Agency: Empowers students to explore and share perspectives on real-world challenges

Free Filmmaking Resources​

Mobile Filmmaking Tools (Free/Low Cost):
https://static1.squarespace.com/sta...965677155/NN_Mobile+Filmmaking+Tools_List.pdf

About the Program​

Nourishing Narratives is an initiative of Mosaic Film Experience, an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to empowering underrepresented youth through storytelling and access to creative career pathways.

The program is supported by Newman’s Own Foundation, continuing Paul Newman’s legacy of using business to drive positive social impact.

Contact Information​

Media Contacts:
Weesie Thelen –

Mail: P.O. Box 888246, Grand Rapids, MI 49588, USA