As the climate crisis deepens and its impacts grow more immediate, the voices of young people are becoming central to the global conversation on solutions. At the upcoming F5IFF’26, that urgency will find creative expression through a special initiative — the Greenovation Challenge, powered by EarthOn — a youth-led video content competition designed to turn climate anxiety into climate action.
The Greenovation Challenge invites young creators to produce short films and micro-movies that explore the climate crisis through their own lived experiences. Rather than focusing only on abstract data or distant projections, the competition encourages participants to look at environmental problems — and their solutions — through the eyes of their generation. From zero-waste living and circular economy models to sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, just transition, food systems and green mobility, the films are expected to spotlight both the challenges and the innovations shaping a low-carbon future.
The mechanism of the challenge is designed to be inclusive and accessible. Participants will conceptualise and produce short-form videos, shot primarily on mobile phones, ensuring that lack of expensive equipment does not become a barrier to entry. To support aspiring filmmakers, F5IFF’26 will host a series of free workshops led by eminent filmmakers, digital storytellers and influencers. These sessions will train participants in mobile cinematography, storytelling techniques, editing basics and impact-driven communication — equipping them with practical skills to transform ideas into compelling visual narratives.
Entries will be evaluated by a jury comprising filmmakers, environmental experts and communication professionals, who will assess the films on originality, clarity of message, storytelling strength and solution-oriented thinking. The emphasis will be on creativity, authenticity and actionable insight rather than technical perfection alone.
The three best films will receive cash awards and gain a high-visibility platform: a special screening at F5IFF’26 in November. By placing youth-created climate stories on the festival stage, the Greenvation Challenge aims not only to reward talent but also to amplify young voices in a space where art, activism and innovation intersect.
