FILMS BYKIDS

FILMS BYKIDS, an inspiring and thought-provoking series, first premiered on PBS in 2016. This unique program is an initiative designed to promote understanding, tolerance and global awareness among the youth. By giving the camera to the hands of children, this documentary series empowers kids to tell their own stories, from their own perspectives.

The central objective of FILMS BYKIDS is to allow young documentarians, aged between 9 and 21, to courageously share their personal stories that are often intertwined with globally relevant social issues. Each episode offers viewers an intimate look at varying experiences presented through children's eyes, therefore, bringing fresh, unprecedented perspectives to complex stories.

These films span across a wide range of difficult and impactful issues such as poverty, child labor, gender equality, education, humanitarian rights, child marriage, war, displacement, environmental change, and cultural displacement, to name a few. However, these grave themes aren't merely underlined; instead, they are robustly explored, strategically examined and humanely framed from the eyes of innocent and evolving minds.

Produced in association with the renowned BYkids organization, FILMS BYKIDS doesn't limit itself to merely presenting stories. Alongside adult filmmakers, children are mentored and guided in the filmmaking process, making each episode a coming together of experienced cinematic storytelling and unfiltered youthful perspective.

The kids featured in the series may hail from various corners of the world, but they all share a common trait: their resilience in the face of adversity. They hail from different countries, including India, Mozambique, Yemen, Nepal, Colombia, Kenya and beyond, giving the series a truly global flavor that sheds light on a multitude of cultures, traditions, lifestyles and their inherent challenges.

In this series, the beauty of varied landscapes is juxtaposed with harsh realities of life, making each story even more compelling. Expertly juxtaposed with visually striking cinematography, these episodes do not shy away from the grim realities faced daily by these children, from oppressive regimes to rampant poverty, institutionalized racism, and many other social issues.

These global narratives are supplemented by poignant commentaries from celebrated personalities who wish to endorse and amplify the voices of these young storytellers. Such endorsements come from high-profile activists, journalists, and celebrities who contribute their insights and analysis, adding professional credibility and gravitas to these amateur yet impactful films.

FILMS BYKIDS also offers an educational outreach component, where each episode is accompanied by a comprehensive learning guide that includes discussion questions, activities, and resources designed to stimulate conversation, nurture empathy, and fuel curiosity among students. This initiative allows teachers to integrate FILMS BYKIDS into curriculum development, fostering cultural education and promoting global understanding in an effective manner.

The pivotal strength of FILMS BYKIDS is its honest approach to storytelling, which enables viewers to discern new perspectives, question preconceived notions, and develop empathy for others' experiences. The series provides a platform for young filmmakers to voice their concerns, share their experiences and express their hopes for the future, thus making the audience not just mere spectators, but empathetic listeners of the world’s untold stories.

FILMS BYKIDS is not just another series of documentaries. It's a set of mirrors held up to society by the young and fearless, offering viewers invaluable insights into the world as seen through the unjaded vision of younger generations. Straying from sensationalism, and staying true to the emotionally charged yet level-headed narratives portrayed by the young lens bearers, FILMS BYKIDS offers deeper understanding of the adversities faced by children globally, breaking down cultural barriers and promoting universal empathy.

The series prompts viewers to pause and introspect, encouraging them to learn more, understand deeper and lend their voices to bring about change. A testament to the fortitude of youth around the globe, FILMS BYKIDS offers not only heartbreakingly authentic stories, but also hope, perspective, and a deeper understanding of the intricate tapestry of various global cultures.

In conclusion, FILMS BYKIDS is a powerful, impactful series that blends the art of filmmaking with the voice of children to present their perspectives on issues that affect them directly. In doing so, it offers insights into diverse cultural backgrounds and sheds light on problems faced by communities across the world, while highlighting the resilience and courage of children living in these circumstances. And in every story, whether bleak or hopeful, the spirit and potential of youth are celebrated.