2025 YOUNG CINEASTES JURY APPLICATION
The Youth Jury Program brings together a diverse group of students from the greater Palm Springs area/Riverside County, uniting them in a shared passion for storytelling and cinema. As part of this exclusive group, participants have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in an array of cinematic experiences, from thought-provoking documentaries to captivating narratives. Each jury selects a winner who will be announced at the end of the festival!
The Young Cineastes is comprised of high school students with a passion for cinema. They get to explore a diverse selection of films, carefully selected by the festival's programming team, capturing a viewpoint from around the world that we hope expands the world around them.

Festival dates: June 24-30, 2025
COMMITMENTS
- Watch 8-10 short films, virtually! (Film links will be emailed. Total watch time: 2 - 4 hours)
- Attend one in-person OR virtual Jury Deliberation Meeting in June (1-2 hours, day/time TBD)
- Optional (but so fun!) - attend the Awards Brunch on Sunday, June 29th (Located at our Host Hotel - Renaissance Palm Springs)
- Reliable transportation if attending in person (the Festival cannot provide transportation to and from events)
PERKS
- ShortFest Badge (easy access to screenings!)
- Presenting awards to filmmakers during the ShortFest awards ceremony
- Meeting other students who love movies as much as you do
- Photo Ops
- Festival Swag
WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR
- High-school students from around the Riverside County
- A passion for film and discussion
Are you in elementary or middle school? Apply to our Kids' Choice Jury!
Are you an adult? Apply to our Desert Views Jury!
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