Imua Family Services is calling on young filmmakers to use their cameras to speak out on important issues as the nonprofit prepares to launch the Be Reel Child & Youth Film Festival, a three-day film festival that will debut in May.

During the festival, young storytellers will take the stage to share their views of the world and visions for the future. Inclusion, diversity, mental health, peer pressure, climate resilience and stories that connect families and culture will be among the many themes explored.

The venture is a project of Real Action for Kids, a new initiative from Imua to give children on Maui access to more resources.

“For centuries, storytelling has been an integral part of how our communities understand themselves and imagine the future,” said Dean Wong, CEO of Imua Family Services. “This festival exists to pass that tradition to the next generation of young people who will guide our society into the future.”

Filmmakers are encouraged to create original short films about causes that inspire them. Submissions for youth 6 to 20 years old will open Jan. 15. More details will be available at the launch of registration. Sign up for updates at https://bereelfilmfestival.com.

Be Reel hits the stage on Memorial Day Weekend in 2026. Partners include the DayOne New Zealand Youth Film Festival, Triple Threat Action Production Company, Wailuku Film Festival, and the Maui Film Commission.