Student Films Honored For Focusing On Miami Homelessness
MIAMI (CBS4) -- The Miami International Film Festival brings the best of world cinema to South Florida. So imagine debuting a film project at the world-renowned festival as a high school student.
That's exactly what dozens of South Florida students experienced at the 5th Annual Student Competition. The competition benefits the Miami Coalition for the Homeless which gives these aspiring young directors an exciting opportunity to make a social statement on the important issue of homelessness.
"Homelessness is a thing that can happen, rather than to a person or a kind of person." explained Eric Flemons as student at the University School of Nova Southeastern University. He was the first place winner in the public service announcement category.
It's a creative concept that challenges students preconceived notions on homelessness.
"I did a lot of brain storming with a few of my friends, thought about it for a bit and thought it would be a really cool idea," said Flemons.
The Miami Coalition for the Homeless is excited to have the students spread the word through the students' art.
"These young students are inspiring and being impacted on what their learning about homelessness," explained Rita Clark of the Miami Coalition.
Local high school students submitted entries in the public service announcement and short film categories and this year Neighbors 4 Neighbors and CBS4 joined the judges and other esteemed community groups as sponsors.
"This event points the credit of those in the community and shows that it does take the community to be part of the solution and everyone has a role," said Clark.
The winning entries debuted at the film festival and will soon make their way on local TV and cable outlets.
"I hope that people will see homelessness as a thing that spans all walks of life," explained Flemons.
To share an exciting event that's giving back and going on in your community, call Neighbors 4 Neighbors at (305) 597-4404 or visit neighbors4neighbors.org.
