20th Anniversary of the Youth Free Expression Film Contest

For the 20th Anniversary of the Youth Free Expression Film Contest, you are invited to join us for a celebration of student artistic freedom and creative expression in film.

The event will feature a film screening showcasing selected winners from the past 20 years, followed by a panel discussion featuring previous film contest judges and past winning filmmakers. Come see the importance of free expression in youth filmmaking!

Participation is free. Registration is required.

About the Speakers

Connie Shi is an award-winning actor and filmmaker based in Brooklyn, NY. She’s the producer of The Looming Cloud which premiered at Sundance 2024 and currently plays Detective Violet Yee on Law & Order.

Jonathan Whittaker is a seasoned New York-based production specialist, known for acclaimed projects like “Train Baby” and “America Here We Come,” with over 20 years of industry experience. As a Chair of Filmmaking at NYFA New York, he mentors aspiring filmmakers, sharing his expertise in the art of storytelling.

Gina Maria Leonetti is an NCAC Board member and a freelance documentary and film producer. She’s a graduate of the Directors Guild NYC Training Program and worked as an Assistant Director on films, television and commercials for 20 years.

Mark Leschinsky is an award-winning student filmmaker from Mahwah, NJ. In addition, he is the founder of the Student World Impact Film Festival (SWIFF), where he aims to empower the voices of fellow youth filmmakers.

Host or Publisher National Coalition Against Censorship