The inaugural Abbotsford Youth Film Festival is encouraging all young filmmakers to showcase their skills.

The debut event, set for W.J. Mouat Secondary on April 1, is open to anyone aged 18 or under.

The theme of the event is identity and all submissions must be completed by March 25. Entry in the festival is free. Film length can be anywhere from one to 12 minutes and older projects are allowed, but the date of completion must be provided. Creators are asked to refrain from using excessive violence, swearing and substance use.

Submissions can be completed by providing a YouTube or OneDrive link.

The festival is open to schools from Abbotsford, Chilliwack and 91原创. All entries will be judged by the panel of Ken Hildebrandt (Gallery 7 Theatre and Abbotsford Air Show), Adam Wormald from the Cassiar Film Co. video production studio and Aaron Dawson (Abbotsford Film Society and professional TV editor).

Big prizes will be offered, including camera equipment, $500 in-store credit to Cassiar Film Co. for best cinematography, as well as two tickets and free submission to the next Abbotsford Film Festival for best picture.

The event is being organized by Grade 12 Mouat student River Desormeaux Schmidt. Tickets to the event are free.

For more information, visit the festival's Instagram page at