About BYkids
BYkids produces inspiring youth-created documentaries about pressing global issues to use as catalysts for empathy, connection and change. We identify universal themes and pair renowned filmmakers with talented young storytellers, who humanize important topics through their own stories - making them accessible, relevant and actionable. Partnering with public television and education innovators, we distribute BYkids films and support materials for in-class and at-home learning. This provides a broad platform for cross-cultural understanding and empathetic engagement.
What We Do
Kids tell honest and important stories, yet they often go unheard.
BYkids is a nonprofit organization that pairs experienced filmmakers with youth ages 8–21 from around the world to create short documentaries that illuminate globally relevant issues for American audiences. Through mentorship, creative tools and a trusted platform, we help young people transform their lived experiences into compelling films.
By sharing these stories widely – on public television and in classrooms across the country – BYkids amplifies voices from diverse cultures, builds global understanding and gives viewers concrete ways to respond.
Our films offer perspectives rarely seen in mainstream media. They challenge assumptions, deepen empathy and inspire action – changing how Americans see the world and how the world sees us. In the process, we empower audiences with knowledge and give young people the agency to shape the narrative.
Everyone benefits.
Students participate in a recent BYkids Academy workshop, 2025.
Our Impact
Transforming impressions into impact.
We’ve garnered over 240 million impressions through the public television broadcasts (83 million households) and our many partnerships.
Our educational action partners reach 50 million students through Discovery Education, social media, and our in-person/virtual events.
To engage students, we provide free innovative educational materials that reach 4.5 million teachers through Discovery Education, 1.8 million teachers through PBS LearningMedia and 150 countries through PenPal Schools.
A new kind of consciousness and empathy has emerged with kids opening their hearts and minds—seeing shared humanity in experiences seemingly very different from their own.
This expansion of awareness and attitudes has shifted behaviors. Students from around the country have created class projects and started action groups that are making a real difference in their communities and beyond.
Shine My South Africa, a BYkids film in-production, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
About BYKids
What is BYkids?
BYkids is a nonprofit organization that mentors young people to create documentary films about their lives and communities. Through the process, youth explore their identity, raise awareness about issues they care about, and inspire change.
What makes BYkids unique?
We believe in the power of storytelling by youth, for everyone. Each BYkids film is co-created by a young person and a seasoned filmmaker, blending mentorship, media literacy, and social impact into every step. The result? Authentic films that move hearts and shift minds.
How long has BYkids been around?
Founded in 2007 by Holly Carter, BYkids has produced over 18 films, reaching audiences on television,film Festivals and in classrooms and around the world.
PARTICIPATING IN BYKIDS
Who can apply to be a BYkids filmmaker?
Opportunities vary depending on the initiative. For our Film Development Fund (FDF) open calls, we invite youth ages 10–20 from around the world to submit their documentary film ideas. Other programs may be U.S.-based or run in partnership with schools or NGOs.
What kind of stories are you looking for?
We welcome stories that are personal, brave, and rooted in a desire to change something—internally or externally. Each cycle of the Film Development Fund will have a theme but we encourage youth to interpret it through their own lens.
FILMS & EDUCATION
Where can I watch BYkids films?
All our films are available on our website and our YT channel.
Are there resources for educators?
Yes! We offer companion educational materials including:
- Classroom discussion guides
- Lesson plans tied to curriculum standards
- BYkids Academy workshops for teachers and students
How can I bring BYkids to my school or organization?
We offer screenings, youth-led Q&As, documentary workshops, and educator training. Reach out via our Contact Page to explore the right format for your group.
SUPPORTING BYKIDS
How can I support BYkids?
You can:
- Make a tax-deductible donation here
- Sponsor a young filmmaker
- Partner with us to host a BYkids Academy workshop or a film screening
- Share our films and mission with your community
Where does my donation go?
Your support helps:
- Fund educational resources and impact campaigns
- Train educators and mentors
- Provide production budgets for youth filmmakers
- Expand access to storytelling programs globally
Do you accept organizational partnerships or sponsorships?
Absolutely. We collaborate with schools, NGOs, companies, and foundations to co-create impact. Let’s build something powerful together. Contact us to learn more.
FILM DEVELOPMENT FUND (FDF)
What is the BYkids Film Development Fund (FDF)?
The FDF is our newest initiative - an annual open call inviting youth (ages 10–20) to submit original ideas for a short documentary film. It’s a way to seed the next generation of changemakers.
What is the current theme?
The Current FDF theme is Climate Action.
What do winners receive?
Winners receive:
- A mentorship with a professional BYkids filmmaker
- A monetary award
When is the deadline to apply?
Submissions are due by April 22, 2026—Earth Day.
Where can I submit my idea?
You can find the submission form and guidelines here.
GET IN TOUCH
I still have questions. Who can I contact?
Email us at info@bykids.org
and a member of our team will get back to you. We love hearing from educators, youth, parents, and partners.
Awards for BYkids Films
NOMINEE, SXSW EDU 2024
Watkins Young Filmmaker Award at the Nashville Film Festival
Best in Fest, MY HERO International Film Festival
Rhode Island International Film Festival
Best Shorts Competition
MY HERO International Film Festival
People’s Choice Award, DigiFest Temecula
Award of Recognition, Impact DOCS Awards
LATEST NEWS FROM BYKIDS
News
November 19, 2025
News
Gold Winner of 5th Annual Anthem Award
