Challenge

Day One Challenge is a filmmaking challenge for anyone up to the age of 24 to tell their stories for a better tomorrow.

Overview

Day One Challenge is a youth empowerment project based round a short film competition encouraging creatives up to the age of 24 to give it a go, or showcase their skills. We want to give rangatahi across Aotearoa the mic, to share films with a message.

Running since 2007 (formerly known as the Someday Challenge), Day One Challenge has evolved to include wrap-around support with year-round educational content, a series of events and an annual cinema showcase.

With multiple deadlines throughout the year to submit your short films, participants not only have their work celebrated but also stand a chance to win mentorship opportunities, gear, and cash prizes!

It's way more than a film competition; it's a creative support system from Day One.

Key dates 2024

ROUND 1
Submission date :
26th of July, 2024

ROUND 2
Submission date:
18th of October, 2024

*Oops! Please note our dates were incorrectly listed in our e-mail March update.

Eligibility

  • Everyone in your team must be 24 years old or under, including yourself
  • Make sure you have written permission from everyone involved in your film (team members, actors, etc.)
  • You have permission to use any music or sound effects in your film
  • You have permission to use any stock images or videos that do not belong to you
  • You have an adult contact that is responsible for your entry, if you are under 16
  • Avoid explicit content - your film should not exceed an M “mature” rating

Categories & Prizes

  • Impact Shorts: Films under 10 min that are "Stories for a better tomorrow".
  • Short Shorts: Films under 1 min. Wrap up your message in 60 secondes (or less) in aVertical Social Media Style reel.
  • Phone Shorts: Films under 5 min that are shot in a phone only.
  • "How To" Shorts: Films under 5 min that share the knowledge about something that matters to you!
  • Music Shorts: Music videos for a song you have permission to use.

There are a range of special awards for different age groups, craft awards and community awards!

Judging Criteria

The judges will be after the following:

  • Message delivery - Getting your message across, making an impact or telling stories for a better tomorrow.
  • Alignment - Making sure your visual and audio elements match the theme and tone of your film.
  • Originality - Coming up with a unique and powerful view.
  • Engaging - Leave a lasting impression.

Terms and conditions

Toolkit download