The Minds in Frame Competition is an opportunity for youth (ages 13 - 24) to elevate their voices through storytelling that addresses real mental health challenges. Presented by the glowmedia project, this competition is designed to foster creativity, empathy, and education through short film development. This year, we're offering two distinct tracks to meet creators where they are in their storytelling journey:
TRACK 1: FULL SCRIPT COMPETITION
An open call for 13 to 24-year-olds to submit a completed 10-page short film script centered on youth mental health.
The selected writer will:
*Collaborate with the Glowmedia team to refine their script
*Ensure it aligns with Glowmedia’s quality standards and is suitable for classroom use
*Receive support to create a script that can serve as the basis for an educational curriculum
Prize:
$500 cash prize or
Travel package to Los Angeles, CA for film production (valued at $4999)
TRACK 2: STORY PITCH
Script Lab (Idea Competition & Development Program)
A structured 8-week mentorship program for middle and high school students (ages 13–18) with a strong idea but no completed script.
Entry Requirements:
*Summary Paragraph – Overall story idea
*Character List – Names, traits, and roles in the story
*Mental Health Theme Explanation – How and why this theme matters
Participants will:
*Attend weekly virtual workshops led by industry professionals
*Receive feedback and guidance through the development of a full script
*Pitch their scripts at the end of the program
*One script will be selected for production by Glowmedia
Prize:
$500 cash prize or
Travel package to Los Angeles, CA for film production (valued at $4999)
TRACK 3: NEBRASKA STUDENTS ONLY
This track is exclusively for middle and high school students in Nebraska (ages 13–18) who want to share their personal experiences with phone use, social media, and always being connected. You don’t need to be a screenwriter—just share your story in your own words.
Entry Requirements:
*1–2 paragraphs describing how being constantly connected has affected your life
*No script required - just your honest perspective and story idea
Participants will:
*Have the chance to see their story developed into a short film
*Work with Glowmedia’s professional team to refine their story for production
*Contribute to an educational project that will be shared in schools
Prize:
$500 cash prize or
Travel package to Los Angeles, CA for film production (valued at $4,999)
ONE WINNER WILL BE SELECTED FROM EACH TRACK.
The winner will have the option to choose between the following two prize packages:
1. Cash Prize of $500
• The winner may opt to receive a cash prize of $500. This option is available for those who prefer a direct monetary reward. With this option, the sponsor covers no travel or additional expenses. Winners who select the cash prize are invited to participate in the production; however, they will not receive any additional compensation or reimbursement for travel expenses.
2. Paid Trip to Los Angeles to Participate in the Production of the Winning Script
• Alternatively, the winner can choose a paid trip for two to Los Angeles to participate in the production of their winning script. This package includes:
- Roundtrip airfare to Los Angeles
- Four (4) nights’ hotel accommodations
- Ground transportation
- A daily meal allowance
• The total value of the trip will not exceed $4999. If the winner is under 18, one of the travelers must be their legal guardian.
• Explanation of Prize Value
The difference in value between the cash prize and the trip is that the cash prize option does not cover travel-related expenses. The paid trip option includes travel, accommodations, and other associated expenses, resulting in a higher overall value.
• Prize Restrictions: Prizes are non-transferable, non-exchangeable, and not redeemable for cash unless otherwise stated. The sponsor reserves the right to substitute any prize with another prize of equal or greater value.
