Uplifting Discourse: Youth Film Festival and Contest

Thanks to everyone who participated in the first-ever TEDx Democracy short film festival for youth: “Uplifting Discourse,” in collaboration with the office of Senator Dick Durbin.

With hundreds of films from around the world, this inaugural festival challenged our young people to reflect on what democracy means to them and how that impacts their view of the past, present, and future.

See our winners below:

• International Winner: Global Democracy Voice Award
  • “Just Like All of You” (Nabhia Ali, Aditi Sattarapu, and Yalavarthi Maanya, under the supervision of Shruti Rai)
  • This poignant film explores the profound experience of a young Muslim girl grappling with the dynamics of wearing a headscarf. It beautifully captures the complexities of identity and the painful realization that those we trust may sometimes be the ones we need protection from. This film not only touches on the personal but also speaks to broader global issues of identity and belonging.
• Domestic Winner (15-19 Category): American Democracy Champion Award
  • “Wire” (Dean Gofnung)
  • “Wire” transports us to a dystopian future where humanity still struggles with screen addiction. In this dark and haunting narrative, Dean masterfully portrays the solitary battle of one boy against this pervasive dependency, making us question our own relationship with technology and freedom. Dean’s film is a powerful commentary on the future of democracy and personal agency.
• Domestic Winner (10-14 Category): American Democracy Champion Award
  • “Democracy?” (Amara Kruse)
  • ‘Democracy?’ is a thoughtful and inquisitive exploration of the freedoms provided by democracy, challenging us to reflect on how free we truly are. Through her eyes, we are reminded that democracy is not just about rights but also about continuous questioning and striving for a better society.