Big Picture Alliance (BPA) empowers marginalized Philadelphia youth to define their own narrative through filmmaking & digital media. We provide transformative learning experiences and a supportive pathway for youth to have their voices heard, develop as young professionals, and reach their full potential.

Big Picture Alliance’s pathway of after school, summer and workforce programs mentor Philly youth from script-to-screen and from curiosity-to-careers. We bring professionals into classrooms and communities to teach digital storytelling through hands-on project-based programs in partnership with schools, industry leaders, and cultural institutions. Youth develop digital literacy, self-expression, social-emotional empowerment, civic engagement and 21st-Century skills through producing original films that explore their perspectives, amplify their voices and uplift their communities. We are at the intersections of Arts & Culture, Youth Development, and Workforce Development.

Media is a powerful tool for shaping society, yet youth from marginalized communities often lack access to media education and career opportunities. In Philadelphia, 30% of youth live below the poverty line, and BIPOC youth receive 25% fewer arts credits, leaving them underrepresented as storytellers in an industry where less than 15% of directors and screenwriters are people of color. By investing in BIPOC youth, we aim to diversify our $30 billion creative sector and create a future where Philly’s young talent can thrive in the media industry.

We envision a city where ALL youth have access to media tools & education, creative community, professional mentorship and career pathways. We aim to amplify marginalized voices and cultivate a new generation of diverse storytellers and media professionals contributing to a more inclusive, equitable, and just society.

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