Overview
The Youth Documentary Academy (YDA) is a Colorado Springs-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of storytellers through the art of documentary filmmaking. Founded in 2014 and housed at Pikes Peak State College, YDA provides tuition-free fellowships to young people ages 14–20, with a focus on students from underserved and underrepresented communities. Through hands-on instruction, mentorship and professional guidance, participants learn to transform their personal experiences and community stories into compelling documentary films that inspire conversation and create meaningful social impact.
During YDA's intensive summer filmmaking program, students receive professional training in every stage of documentary production, including story development, interviewing, cinematography, lighting, sound recording, editing and film distribution. Working alongside experienced filmmakers, educators and guest artists, students collaborate in production teams to create original short documentaries that reflect their unique perspectives and lived experiences. Beyond developing technical filmmaking skills, participants build confidence, leadership, communication and collaboration skills that prepare them for future educational and career opportunities.
YDA's commitment extends well beyond the summer program. Graduates continue working with the organization to distribute their films through community screenings, schools, libraries, film festivals and public television. Since 2022, many YDA productions have reached national audiences through OUR TIME, a public television series distributed by American Public Television and broadcast on PBS stations across the country. YDA also engages the community through public screenings, educational initiatives and special events that encourage dialogue around important social issues affecting young people and their communities.
By helping young filmmakers discover and amplify their voices, the Youth Documentary Academy is developing the next generation of documentary storytellers while enriching Colorado Springs' creative community. Through education, mentorship and meaningful storytelling, YDA demonstrates the power of film to foster empathy, strengthen communities and inspire positive change.
