WELCOME TO THE HUMANITY RISING FILM FESTIVAL
One story can change the world!
One story can change the world!
Are you ready to spark change through the power of storytelling?
Humanity Rising invites high school students nationwide to step behind the camera and use their voice to make a meaningful impact. Our Film Festival is your chance to create a powerful, purpose-driven film on issues like bullying and inclusion, youth mental health, homelessness, and more. Share your vision, raise awareness, and show how young changemakers can lead the way in creating a more compassionate and better world.
Join Us for the Humanity Rising Film Festival!
Admission is free, but advance registration is required to guarantee your seat.
Please select the 7:00 PM showing when reserving your ticket.
Doors open at 6:00 PM—arrive early to enjoy a special Meet & Greet before the screening!
“Humanity Rising Film Festival was an incredible experience. I was blown away by the talent and creativity of the other filmmakers, and it was surreal to see The Man in the Green and Gold Suit on the big screen. I was honored to receive the Sponsor’s Choice Award and so grateful to be part of such a fun, supportive festival. I highly recommend Humanity Rising to any student filmmaker looking for a welcoming space to share their work.”
Topics
Anti-Bullying / Inclusion
Mental Health / Coping Strategies
Hunger / Homelessness / Poverty
The Environment / Taking Care of the Planet
Other Social Cause
Film Awards
Best Picture Award
$2500 Scholarship to an individual or school club
Audience Choice Award
(Live Voting at Event)
$1500 Scholarship to an individual or school club
*More Awards to Be Announced as Sponsors Join Our Cause!!
*Scholarships can be used for college or trade school. For group awards, it can be a donation to your school’s club.
Criteria
- You must be enrolled in 9th-12th grades to be considered.
- You must provide proof of enrollment that you attend your high school or homeschool with your submission
- All films must have a “PG-13” or lower rating. Think to yourself, is this something I would present at my high school for parents, teachers, and students? No political content can be accepted at this time. The film can be in any genre – whether a documentary, comedy, animation, drama, or whatever your mind creates. Submissions must also include:
- Brief synopsis of your film (three or more sentences that summarizes the topic, meaning and/or story)
- Director’s Statement that states your reason for selecting the topic, any background information preferred, how this film shows a solution to the challenges presented in the film
- Non-English films must have English subtitles
**Review rules on FilmFreeway before getting started as there are more details
Dates
Submissions open on
June 1, 2025
Submission Deadline is
September 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM CST
The festival will take place on Monday, October 13, 2025. A virtual film festival and additional film panels with student filmmakers from across the country will take place in late October 2025 and beyond.
Show us your vision of a more compassionate world!
Join us on
October 13, 2025
In Person Location
Wayfarer Theater Highland Park
1850 2nd St, Highland Park, IL 60035
Reception
6:00 PM CST – 7:00 PM CST
Film Begins
7:00 PM CST – 8:30 PM CST
Panel Discussion
8:30 PM CST – 9:00 PM CST
Virtual Location
Link will be sent prior to event
Audience members will vote live to determine the Audience Choice Award winner. Plus, finalists will have their films featured in Humanity Rising’s cutting-edge 3D Metaverse theater for even more visibility!
Thank you to our sponsors
For supporting young changemakers in creating a more compassionate world
Partner with our Festival Today
Your Participation Will Be Shared With Thousands of Students Throughout the Chicagoland Area and Beyond
Presenting Partner
$50,000
Impact Partner
$25,000
Inspiration Partner
$10,000
Changemaker Partner
Under $10,000
