MISSION + ABOUT US

One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest

Our Mission: Elevating young filmmakers worldwide to advance environmental justice and the protection of our planet through the art of storytelling.

About Us: Founded in 2013, the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest empowers youth to take an active role in the global dialogue on climate change, giving them a creative platform to share their stories, concerns, and hopes for the future through the powerful medium of film. By connecting young storytellers with environmental leaders, organizations and each other, we foster a global community of changemakers committed to a sustainable future. Contest details here.


 

SANDY GEE (She/Her)
Social Media and
Communications Director
[email protected]
[email protected]

With over 30 years of experience in both the public and private sector of education, Sandy has worked with learners of all ages, leading workshops, classes, and presentations focused on stress management, meditation, personal development and wellness. In her current role with One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest, she is dedicated to amplifying student voices and fostering meaningful connections between young filmmakers and professionals in both the film and environmental sectors.

SUE CROTHERS (She/Her)
Founding Director
[email protected]

Since its inception in 2013, Sue has led the contest from a local initiative to a globally recognized platform, celebrating the voices of young filmmakers aged 8 to 25.

In 2025, the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest (OEYFC) entered into a partnership with the Youth Climate Report an interactive film database project supported by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This collaboration offers filmmakers aged 18 to 35 the opportunity to submit their climate-related films to both organizations, amplifying their impact and reach. More details here.

Under Sue's leadership, the OEYFC has introduced several impactful initiatives, including the Environmental Activism Awards. These awards connect winning films with environmental organizations, allowing them to use the films for fundraising and awareness campaigns.

MADISON GEE (She/Her)
Program Director
[email protected]
[email protected]

Madison Gee is the Program Director for the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest, where she helps guide the contest’s annual programming and operations, oversees submissions, jury and partner relations, and supports the recognition and screening of winning films. 

Having spent nearly a decade in agency communications, Madison has experience leading strategic communications programs and creative productions to bring social, digital and direct-to-consumer content to life.

Madison is passionate about creating opportunities for young filmmakers to share their perspectives and inspire action on the environmental issues shaping their generation.

Photos above by Gloria Araya Photography from the Awards Celebration on Sept. 27, 2026, at Davis Theater in Chicago.