Nonprofit hosting national youth film competition

Feb 9

Written By Staff

In its inaugural year, Nourishing Narratives awarded student filmmakers from Los Angeles; Brooklyn; Lexington, Kentucky; Meridian, Connecticut; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Washington, D.C.; Leominster, Massachusetts; and Atlanta.
Photo courtesy of Mosaic Film Experience

Grand Rapids nonprofit Mosaic Film Experience will host Nourishing Narratives: Cultivating Youth Stories for Change, a national mobile film competition for youth to explore food justice. Supported by Newman’s Own Foundation, the private grantmaking foundation started by legendary actor Paul Newman, whose mission is to nourish and transform the lives of children who face adversity, the competition amplifies youth perspectives on building a just and equitable food system for everyone, while supporting their growth as storytellers.

The competition invites students ages 13 to 18 across the U.S. to create a short film (up to three minutes) using only mobile devices. No prior filmmaking experience required. Each submission must include the theme of Creating Better Food Futures, a plate or bowl as a prop, and incorporate the phrase “Change Starts With Us,” spoken, written, or displayed. The competition encourages students to explore real-world solutions, spotlight individuals and organizations making a difference, and reimagine a fair food system for all.

“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. “Along the way, students are building creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, skills that will serve them well in their careers, communities, and personal growth. This year, even more young storytellers will have the opportunity to share powerful stories of change in their communities.”

A diverse jury will select the top entries from the submissions to be featured on a dedicated YouTube channel. From these videos, up to 10 winners will each receive $1,000, a Newman’s Own prize package, and will be celebrated at an exclusive event with film and food justice leaders.

“Paul Newman believed deeply in nourishing and transforming the lives of children and that mission continues to guide our work today,” said Alex Amouyel, President and CEO of Newman’s Own Foundation. “Through Nourishing Narratives, we’re proud to elevate youth voices on food justice and to partner with Mosaic Film Experience to bring these important stories, and student storytellers, to the forefront of national conversations.”

The submission period for Nourishing Narratives opens on March 6 and closes on April 12, 2026. Winners will be announced on June 26, 2026. Nourishing Narratives will culminate with a celebration in August to celebrate the winners and their impactful stories. For more information, visit https://www.nourishing-narratives.com/.

West Michigan Newspop Digital Partners