South Carolina ETV (SCETV) is proud to announce the NextLens Online Film Festival, an exciting opportunity for emerging filmmakers aged 16-26 to showcase their talent, creativity and vision. Designed to highlight the voices of the next generation, NextLens is a powerful platform that gives aspiring filmmakers from across South Carolina a chance to be seen, celebrated and recognized in the ever-evolving world of media.
Submissions for the Spring 2025 festival are currently open and will close on Nov. 22. The festival is open to high school, college and university students from South Carolina, and aims to celebrate innovative storytelling and original short films.
Key Dates:
- Submissions Close: November 22, 2024
- Honorees Selected: January 31, 2025
- Honorees Announced: February 21, 2025
- Online Festival Dates: March 3-14, 2025
Selected films will be featured across SCETV's digital platforms, including scetv.org, YouTube, Facebook, the PBS app and the SCETV app, giving honorees significant exposure. In addition to this digital screening, honorees will receive certificates recognizing their achievements.
With the growing importance of digital content, NextLens creates a space where the filmmakers of tomorrow can shine today. This festival not only highlights the unique perspectives of South Carolina’s young storytellers but also nurtures the future of media, showcasing talent that will shape the narrative of the digital era.
Aspiring filmmakers can find submission guidelines and detailed information on how to submit their work on the NextLens page of the SCETV website.
More information is available at www.scetv.org/nextlens.
QUOTES
“NextLens is more than a film festival—it's a way for young creators to gain valuable exposure and connect with a broader audience. In a time when digital media is more powerful than ever, we’re proud to offer a space where these unique voices can be heard and celebrated. I’m thrilled to be part of an initiative that allows South Carolina’s youth to demonstrate their creativity on such a wide-reaching platform.” -Senior Director of Audio and Digital Operations Tabitha Safdi
“At SCETV, we recognize the importance of digital storytelling, and NextLens offers young filmmakers the opportunity to experiment with their craft in an environment that encourages creativity and innovation. This festival is not only about showcasing short films; it's about giving emerging artists the tools they need to excel in the digital world, and I can’t wait to see the incredible work that will come from this year’s honorees.” -SCETV Director of Digital Ty Moody
FAST FACTS
- SCETV has announced the NextLens Online Film Festival, an exciting opportunity for emerging filmmakers aged 16-26.
- Submissions for the Spring 2025 festival are currently open and will close on Nov. 22.
- The festival is open to high school, college and university students from South Carolina.
- Selected films will be featured across SCETV's digital platforms, including scetv.org, YouTube, Facebook, the PBS app and the SCETV app.
- Aspiring filmmakers can find submission guidelines and detailed information on how to submit their work on the NextLens page of the SCETV website.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as Carolina Classrooms, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Somewhere South, Yoga in Practice and How She Rolls. In addition, SC Public Radio produces the national radio production, Chamber Music from Spoleto Festival USA.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
803-737-3337
