Now Accepting 60-Second Film Submissions from young people in Canada!
Directing Change is an evaluated program that engages youth to learn about mental health, suicide prevention and other critical health and social justice topics through film and art.
Submission Category
Enter 60 Second Film Contest: Mental Health Through the Lens of Culture
Films should tell a positive and educational story that encourages young people to reach out for support when they need it, show them how to support others, and explore mental health through the lens of their culture.
- Open to students in middle and high school, and young adults through age 25
- Free to participate
- Mini grants for schools
- Cash prizes for youth (up to $1,000)
- Talk openly about mental health
- Stand up for others and be supportive
- Get the facts
- Don't wait to get help
- Films in English, French, Sign Language and other Languages welcome!
Outcomes
Submissions due: May 1, 2021
- Learn more about mental health and how to get help for a friend or yourself
- Know why resources are available to help.
- Have the confidence to help a friend who may be thinking about suicide.
Lesson plans and educational materials are available.
To Get Started
Step 1:
Review the contest rules and FAQ!
Step 2:
Visit the "For Schools" page for lesson plans and educational resources. Before proceeding with this contest in your school, or at your organization, be sure to review the protocol and procedures in place at your school or organization for addressing the needs of youth in an emotional crisis. Chapter 2 in the Suicide Prevention: A Toolkit for Schools (provided on the website) provides guidance on how to do this.
Step 3:
Review educational resources on mental health on the website. Participants will submit 60-second films on mental health and/or how they are staying well during the current pandemic. Example films and educational videos are available for viewing. It is recommended to review the judging criteria that films will be scored against!
Step 4:
Submit entry forms and upload films by April 1, 2021. Every entry needs to include signed release forms from every participants (cast and crew). Anyone under the age of 18 also needs to have the form signed by their parent or a legal guardian. *This way we can share films broadly, even on TV and in movie theatres to help prevention efforts across the nation!
If you, or someone you know, is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress help is just a text away. Text TALK to 686 868 to connect with a crisis responder.
Get Involved
The program is based on an evaluated curriculum and free to schools. It can be implemented in the classroom, by a club on campus, or as an after school activity.