The San Diego Teen Dating Violence Committee is hosting the first annual Teen Film Festival for October 2026. We are excited to create a film festival inviting our local teen creatives to share their experience or perspective of healthy relationships, friendships, heartbreak to reduce the shame and stigma of unhealthy and or abusive relationships.

Prompt: Teen dating violence is more common than people realize and abuse is not always physical. Through your short film submission, explore themes of romance, heartbreak, forgiveness, hope, and teen independence to inspire others to seek help from a trusted friend or adult.

Teens living in San Diego county are invited to create and submit a 1 minute max. public service announcement (PSA) or a short film that must not exceed 5 minutes.

Submission categories may include: Narrative, Animation, Documentary, Music Video etc.

Film festival and ceremony is to be determined! We will update as soon as we secure the location.

Awards & Prizes

The awards and prizes are TBD. We will update as soon as possible. For further clarification, please reach out to teendv.sddvc@gmail.com

Rules & Terms

Only open to San Diego county residents, students, teens 18 years old or younger.

Filmmakers must live in San Diego County and all short films must be written, directed and edited by teens in grades 6-12, or ages 11-18.
The Festival accepts films in any genre from 1 minute Public Service Announcements or short films must not exceed 5 minutes.
All entries must be mainly teen-produced. Note, however, that adults are permitted to assist with your film and encouraged to act!

All submissions must be original work. AI is not allowed.
All subject matter must be related to teen relationships, friendships or romance. Content and language must be safe to share with others - it shouldn’t hurt, offend, or put anyone (including yourself) in danger.

If the primary language of the film is not English, English subtitles are required.

Subtitles must be clear, legible, and properly synchronized.

If selected, filmmakers will receive an official invitation to attend the festival. Once selected, film maker(s) will be reached out to returned a signed parent/guardian media release form.

Short film submission must include the statement: “If you or know someone experiencing teen dating violence or sexual violence, please reach out for help. You are not alone. Love Is Respect advocates are available 24/7. Text (“LOVEIS” to 22522), or call 866-331-9474“

Submission does not guarantee selection.

Questions? Contact the San Diego Teen Dating Violence Committee: teendv.sddvc@gmail.com