It’s hard to think of a world without film. Whether it’s the whimsical story of Snow White or scanning the Great Plains of Saskatchewan, the medium has always had one purpose: to tell stories. Fact or fiction, film immerses the viewer.

Fast-forward to over 100 years since the first film was produced, along comes Reel Youth, an intergenerational connection – stories told by elders, filmed by youth.

Established in 2004, Reel Youth is a media empowerment project that delivers community development programming to youth and adults across Canada and the world. Film production and distribution programs are designed to create positive change in young people’s lives through technical skill building, leadership training, creative collaboration with peers and mentors, and increased connection to community resources.

In 2018, they visited the Blackfoot Territory in Lethbridge, AB, bringing together youth and Elders to strengthen their connections, build storytelling skills, and produce short films that celebrate their lives and cultures.

Reel Youth will be coming to Hollyhock in August, presented by Mark Vonesch and Tiffany Moses to share their skills and talents. Let’s continue to tell our very own stories.