In order to apply to this event, the applicant (or the group representative in case of group submission) must be a U25 student at Sophia University’s partner institutions (400+ institutions across 80+ countries). When applying, please carefully check your eligibility.

Overview
The first-ever “Sustainability Through Your Lens” Short Film Contest welcomes any 90 second film that freely express "sustainability" from your own perspective based on your everyday experiences and feelings. Capture your unique viewpoint, convey your message, and spark empathy or insight in others with your film!
While the word "sustainability" is widely used, its meaning can differ greatly depending on one’s individual experience. It doesn’t have to be about large-scale issues like climate change, resource depletion, or diversity—it can also emerge from small moments of discomfort in daily life, personal questions, or hopes and visions for the future.
This contest places greater value on the originality and authenticity of your perspective than on technical expertise or video production quality.
Why not share your view of sustainability with the world—through your lens?

Entry Theme
「Sustainability Through Your Lens」
This contest invites young people to share their personal perspective on sustainability through a 90-second video. Rather than focusing on technical expertise or polished production, we’re looking for authentic, creative stories that reflect your real-life experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Whether it's about climate change, diversity, or everyday challenges, we want to hear what sustainability means to you. Let your voice inspire others and help shape the future.

Visit our website for more information: https://www.sophiathroughyourlens.com/en/

Awards & Prizes

- Grand Prize (1 film) Cash Prize: 100,000 Japanese Yen
- Award of Excellence (1 film) Cash Prize: 50,000 Japanese Yen
- Inspiration Award (One per judge) Cash Prize: 30,000 Japanese Yen

Rules & Terms

•Eligibility:
The applicant (or the group representative) must be undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled at Sophia University or one of its partner institutions abroad.
(Both full-time and exchange/non-degree students are eligible.)
Partner Institutions (400+ institutions across the world) are listed here: https://www.sophia.ac.jp/eng/aboutsophia/global/

•Age Requirement:
The applicant (or the group representative) must be under 25 years old at the time of the submission deadline.
(This contest aims to promote sustainability awareness among young people.)

•Group Submissions:
Entries may be submitted by individuals or groups of up to 6 members. In this case, the representative must meet both the eligibility and the age requirements.

•Maximum # of Entries:
Each applicant may submit up to 3 entries.

•Video Lengths: Approximately 90 seconds

•Originality: Animations and photographs from external sources may be used, if copyright is properly respected

•Filming tool: Any device may be used

•Video Format: Both vertical and horizontal formats are acceptable

•Language and Text: The use of spoken language or text, including subtitles and voiceovers, is not permitted.