Young Voices

Submissions Now Closed

Thank you to everyone who shared their passion, creativity, and unique perspectives with us for this year’s JFF: Young Voices Competition. The call for submissions has officially closed, and we are thrilled by the incredible response and diverse range of stories that came through under the theme
“The Power of Sports in Film.”

To all the talented emerging filmmakers who entered: we wish you the very best of luck in the competition. Your dedication and imaginative storytelling truly reflect the spirit of sports—perseverance, camaraderie, and the drive to achieve something extraordinary.

Our jury is now carefully reviewing each submission to select the standout films. We appreciate your patience during this process. In the meantime, stay connected with us on our official channels for updates and announcements about future opportunities at the Joburg Film Festival.

We can’t wait to celebrate the vision and talent of our Young Voices contestants. Best of luck, and thank you for making this year’s competition a resounding success!

Are you a passionate storyteller with a unique perspective on the world of sports? The Joburg Film Festival invites you to showcase your creative vision in our Young Voices Competition under the theme “The Power of Sports in Film.”

Why Sports?

At JFF, we believe that sports is a universal language—inclusive and unifying, allowing everyone to participate at any level, whether competitively or just for the love of the game. Sports can be a personal journey of growth and self-discovery or a collective experience that brings communities together. It builds character, fosters strength and embodies perseverance and resilience. It’s about achieving personal bests, fostering connections and igniting national pride.

We are captivated by the art of capturing sports through the powerful lens of film. A camera doesn’t just record events; it tells stories, reveals new perspectives and connects audiences to emotions and experiences they might never encounter otherwise. We are seeking passionate emerging storytellers who can creatively depict the world of sports in a 5-minute film, using any medium, style, format or genre.

What Stories Can You Tell?

The possibilities are endless. Perhaps you’ll explore:

• The grace of ballet or the intensity of boxing.
• A personal journey of an athlete overcoming obstacles.
• The camaraderie and humor within a local soccer team.
• The physical endurance and mental strength required in marathon running.
• The unity of a community rallying behind their underdog team.
• The cultural significance of traditional sports in your region.

The joy of participation over competition.

Whether it’s a documentary, a fictional narrative or an experimental piece, we encourage you to delve into social, cultural or personal themes that resonate with your experiences. Show us how sports inspires you, influence societies and shape identities.

Competition Details:

• Theme: The Power of Sports in Film
• Video Duration: 5 minutes
• Equipment: Any device you have (cell phones, digital cameras, etc.)
• Format: Films must be submitted in HD format, preferably in MP4, MOV or similar widely accepted file types.
• Submission Period: 3 December 2024 – 21 February 2025
• Age Requirement: 18 – 35 
• Award: Trophy, bursary and screening 

Why Participate?

Participating in the Young Voices Competition offers a unique opportunity to showcase your talent and get your work seen by industry professionals, fellow creatives and audiences who appreciate the art of film. It’s a chance to expand your network, connecting with like-minded individuals and professionals in both the film and sports industries. Your story could inspire others, motivating and resonating with people from all walks of life. By sharing your unique perspective, you can shape the future and contribute to the evolving narrative of sports in film, influencing how these stories are told.

We can’t wait to see the world through your lens!