Mental Health Short Films created by BIPOC & LGBTQ+ filmmakers

Access to tech and creative industry employment

Applying a proven solution to a new issue or sector (using an existing model, tool, resource, strategy, etc. for a new purpose)

For underrepresented groups, securing employment in creative sectors is notably challenging due to systemic inequalities, limited access to on the job training, and insufficient professional networks. This disparity not only limits career prospects but also prevents diverse stories that the creative industry desperately need. Additionally mental health struggles are pervasive among young people today, exacerbated by societal pressures and stigma. These issues are often intensified for individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ communities, who face additional layers of discrimination and marginalization.

Our project is an anthology of short films written, directed, and shot by underrepresented filmmakers. This initiative aims to address the identified issues by providing these young creatives with access to industry professionals, state-of-the-art equipment, and on-the-job training. Through mentorship and robust community-building efforts, we ensure that these filmmakers receive the support and guidance they need to succeed.
The short films will be taken to college campuses and toured through various foundations to spark important conversations about mental health within these groups. By engaging directly with audiences through screening talkbacks, we aim to foster understanding and destigmatize mental health struggles.
Our approach leverages the power of short films as calling cards in the industry. These initial projects are designed to attract future funding, enabling filmmakers to develop feature-length versions of their stories. As an organization, UVC has a proven track record of creating successful short films and bringing minority-focused stories into the spotlight. Our short film "Refuse," which addresses drug addiction in the Korean American community, has won awards and been showcased at dozens of nationwide screenings.
Through this grant-supported project, we aim to continue empowering underrepresented filmmakers, addressing mental health issues, and creating pathways to meaningful careers in the creative industries.

Increased Diversity and Inclusion: Underrepresented groups, including women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ individuals, will have greater representation in the creative economy, leading to a richer cultural landscape.
Mental Health Awareness: Our short films will foster conversations about mental health, reducing stigma and promoting understanding. Partnering with mental health orgs will be our next step in ensuring practical steps forward. Empowered Youth: Marginalized youth will gain valuable skills, experience, and networks through our mentorship and training programs, opening doors to career opportunities in the creative industries and providing sustainable pathways to success.
Community Building: The Blue House will become a hub for artists and creatives, fostering collaboration and support, and inspiring societal change.
Industry Innovation: Our project will drive innovation in the creative industries, challenging conventional narratives and inspiring new forms of artistic expression

Our short film has already been shown to thousands of college students across the nation, demonstrating our ability to reach and engage with young audiences. We have partnered with local mental health clinics and professionals to host Q&A sessions, providing crucial follow-up resources and support. Our crew and cast composition, boasting 90% ethnic minorities, is a testament to our commitment to diversity and inclusion in the creative industry.
Audience Reach : Number of screenings, audience attendance, and participation in Q&A sessions. Data showing thousands of students have attended screenings; high engagement levels in post-screening discussions. Follow-up data from clinics and professionals showing resource utilization rate Diversity : Percentage of ethnic minorities involved in the project. Employment records demonstrating 90% minority participation in cast and crew. Program Reach: Program participants complete short film
Engage at least 100 underrepresented youth annually.