

HAWAI'I'S YOUTH LEADING BY EXAMPLE
Calling all student filmmakers! For the 2023-24 school year, we’re inviting middle school and high school students to create a short film (documentary or narrative) that tells an inspiring story of youth leading the way in community or civic engagement for this year’s contest theme of: “Hawai’i’s Youth Leading By Example.”
To prepare and submit your film, please review the guidelines below:
- All student must register and submit their film at: tinyurl.com/HIFFxFF (Choose Future Filmmakers)
- Ensure the film’s story displays young people in Hawai’i leading by example
- The short film must be at least 1 minute long and no longer than 4 minutes
- Students may use a smartphone, tablet, or digital camera to make their film. Animated films are welcomed.
- Attend our fall workshops in October (more info will be shared with registered students)
- Deadline is January 31, 2024. Finalists notified in February 2024.
Quotes that inspired the theme
"We have been shaped by the history, culture and events of this region. I have long believed that Hawai'i – multicultural and tolerant – is what the world should always strive to be.”
SEN. DANIEL K. INOUYE, from the Welcome to Hawaii speech to the 2011 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), Yokohama, Japan on November 11, 2010

reflection questions for students
Here are some questions to think about as you prepare your film. We encourage you to discuss your answers with your teacher and your group (if submitting a group film).
- What lessons have inspired you to be a leader? How do those lessons shape your decisions in life?
- Do you believe that Hawai’i’ can be an example to the world? In what ways can the world learn from Hawai’i?
- What does the “spirit of aloha” mean to you? Is it important for leaders to embody aloha? Why?

ABOUT OUR PARTNERS
As HIFF partners with organizations like the Daniel K. Inouye Institute, we work to build a better future with students who have a powerful voice to reimagine a new world.