🎬 Submissions Are Now Open for the Be Reel Child & Youth Film Festival!

The spotlight is officially on—submissions are now open for the inaugural Be Reel Child & Youth Film Festival, Maui’s first-ever youth-led festival about kids, for kids, and by kids! Produced by Imua Family Services through the Real Action for Kids (RAK) initiative, Be Reel provides an exciting platform for young filmmakers to share their stories, creativity, and perspectives with the world.

Launching over Memorial Day Weekend 2026, Be Reel celebrates youth voices and encourages keiki and teens ages 6–20 to explore the themes that inspire them most. From climate resilience and cultural identity to mental health, equity, family, and community, this festival is an invitation to transform ideas, experiences, and passions into short films that matter. Whether it’s a story captured on a phone, a camera, or even a borrowed GoPro, what counts is heart, originality, and a story only the filmmaker can tell.

“Our keiki have things to say, and we’re here to support them,” says Dean Wong, CEO of Imua Family Services. “This festival is about listening to the next generation of storytellers and providing them with a platform to share their stories with the world.” Be Reel embodies Imua’s commitment to ensuring every child on Maui has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive by 2030—while also giving young people a meaningful way to express themselves and be seen.

The festival features multiple age groups and categories, with selected films honored and celebrated during Be Reel’s debut event. Young filmmakers can now register, review entry guidelines, and stay updated at www.BeReelFilmFestival.com. Participants under 18 will need parent or guardian permission to join.

Be Reel is also proud to collaborate with a growing network of partners who help make this festival possible, including DayOne New Zealand Youth Film Festival, Triple Threat Action Production Company, Wailuku Film Festival, and the Maui Film Commission. These collaborations bring expertise, mentorship, and global perspective to the festival, helping young filmmakers grow their skills and share their creativity far and wide.

This is a unique opportunity for youth to step into the director’s chair, bring their stories to life, and inspire audiences both locally and internationally. It’s more than a festival—it’s a movement to amplify the voices of children and youth, nurture their talents, and celebrate their vision for the world.

If you’re ready to create, tell your story, and Be Reel, the camera is waiting! Visit www.BeReelFilmFestival.com to submit your film and be part of Maui’s newest celebration of youth creativity.