MISSION + ABOUT US

One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest Purpose & Mission Statement

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 platform to share their stories, concerns and hopes for the future through the powerful medium of film. We believe true climate solutions must include the voices of the generation most affected by past environmental choices and decisions.

SANDY DIXON (She/Her)
Social Media and
Communications Director
[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.

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.

LISA BIEHLE FILES (She/Her)
Program Director
[email protected]
[email protected]

Since 2015, Lisa has helped Sue Crothers manage the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest. With the assistance of a discerning jury of about 30 filmmakers and environmentalists, she has advanced film quality and quantity simultaneously, helping to make the Young Filmmakers Contest a highly competitive and well-regarded contest internationally.

A major highlight was the 10-year celebration of the program in 2022, when the 10 best films from the previous 10 years were featured at the Gene Siskel Film Center. Watch those films here.