Youth Media Across the Globe
In the process of doing so much work and research on youth media production, I thought it would be a helpful resource to provide a fairly comprehensive list of organizations that do this kind of work. They're organized by location, starting on the north of the east coast and moving west. Since I started my work in the greater Philadelphia area, that group is particularly detailed. I hope this can be a resource for you as you work to learn more about such programs and how you can collaborate or support them.
Please contact me if you have any problems with or additions to this page. Keeping an accurate and growing list of youth media organizations is important to me.
In addition to this list, WNYC's Radio Rookies also provides a good list, which you can see by clicking here. The National Alliance for Media, Art, and Culture also has an extensive list of media-related organizations, some of which are youth-specific, available here.
And be sure to check out my page about Youth Media Contests and Festivals to see where you could enter your work.
Please contact me if you have any problems with or additions to this page. Keeping an accurate and growing list of youth media organizations is important to me.
In addition to this list, WNYC's Radio Rookies also provides a good list, which you can see by clicking here. The National Alliance for Media, Art, and Culture also has an extensive list of media-related organizations, some of which are youth-specific, available here.
And be sure to check out my page about Youth Media Contests and Festivals to see where you could enter your work.
Boston Area Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/601909
Boston Mobilization (http://www.bostonmobilization.org/): This community organization works with young people in the city and suburbs of Boston to engage in thoughtful, critical action about social issues and uses media production in their work.
Media Minds (http://www.ywcaboston.org/media-minds/): A program of the YWCA in Boston, this program works with young people to help them be media literate.
Press Pass TV (http://www.presspasstv.org): Working with youth in Boston and Worcester, Press Pass TV focuses on advocacy journalism, connecting with community organizations, schools, and other youth programs to engage young people in critical journalism that highlights efforts that work towards social change.
Project HIP-HOP (http://www.projecthiphop.org/): A youth-led group in Boston, Project HIP-HOP focuses on understanding and using hip-hop as a way to work for youth power and social justice, including options for youth to produce their own music.
Teen Voices (http://www.teenvoices.com): This organization works to empower young women of color to use their voices in and with media production, working to develop as women, critical thinkers, and activists.
Media Minds (http://www.ywcaboston.org/media-minds/): A program of the YWCA in Boston, this program works with young people to help them be media literate.
Press Pass TV (http://www.presspasstv.org): Working with youth in Boston and Worcester, Press Pass TV focuses on advocacy journalism, connecting with community organizations, schools, and other youth programs to engage young people in critical journalism that highlights efforts that work towards social change.
Project HIP-HOP (http://www.projecthiphop.org/): A youth-led group in Boston, Project HIP-HOP focuses on understanding and using hip-hop as a way to work for youth power and social justice, including options for youth to produce their own music.
Teen Voices (http://www.teenvoices.com): This organization works to empower young women of color to use their voices in and with media production, working to develop as women, critical thinkers, and activists.
New York City Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1212501
Children's PressLine (http://www.cplmedia.org): By providing journalism training to youth in New York City, New Orleans, and Washington, D.C., this group focuses on raising youth voice and youth issues while engaging young people as life-long learners.
Educational Video Center (http://www.evc.org/): Based in Manhattan, this long-standing youth media program has a wide variety of film-based programs and activities for young people engage in as they become dedicated to creating positive social change.
Girls Write Now (http://www.girlswritenow.org): This all-girls program provides mentoring and writing instruction while also supporting young female authors and publishing their work.
Global Action Project (http://www.global-action.org): Working with youth from all of New York's boroughs, G.A.P. works to develop teens' leadership, critical thinking, and media production skills to create change.
Global Kids (http://www.globalkids.org/):Focused on developing global citizens, Global Kids uses digital media as one of its many techniques in teaching youth about worldwide issues while also developing thoughtful responses to these problems.
Ghetto Film School (http://www.ghettofilm.org): Based in the Bronx, this organization offers a variety of programs for young people in hopes of developing the next generation of storytellers.
New York State Summer School of Media Arts (http://www.p12.nysed.gov/nysssa/SMA/): A summer program for New York students in grades 8-12, NYSSSA is based in Albany, but the summer programs take place at various college campuses throughout the state.
PRO-TV (http://www.dctvny.org/youth/): Another long-standing training organization for youth producer, PRO-TV provides great opportunities to learn, practice, and master skills in media literacy and production.
Reel Works (http://www.reelworks.org/): With a firm belief that all teens have a story to tell that is worth hearing, this group provides over 150 youth in NYC with the opportunity to learn how to make their films.
Radio Rookies (http://www.wnyc.org/radiorookies/): Part of WNYC's programming, Radio Rookies gives teens the chance to share their stories with the world through public radio production.
Radio Rootz (http://www.peoplesproductionhouse.org/programs/radio-rootz): Started in NYC, Radio Rootz gave youth radio producers a chance for their voices to be heard, and now it has expanded to include other sites in Washington, D.C. and along the Gulf Coast.
Tribeca Film Institute (http://www.tribecafilminstitute.org/youth/): The Tribeca Film Institute offers a large number of programs for youth, offering both in-school and out-of-school support for young filmmakers.
Urban Word NYC (http://www.urbanwordnyc.org): This program supports young people and their voices through spoken word, poetry, hip-hop as well as journalism, writing, and other youth development programs.
Vision of Education & Media (http://www.vemny.org) This organization offers after-school programs for students of all ages to engage with new technologies and multimedia activities.
Willie Mae Rock Camp for Girls (http://www.girlsrockcamp.org): Another New York City organization, this one focuses on empowering girls and young women to fight for change by creating their own music.
Youth Channel (http://www.youthchannel.org/): As part of the Manhattan Neighborhood Network, this group encourages social action and political discussions among its youth media producers who work at the Youth Channel base in East Harlem.
Youth Communication (http://www.youthcomm.org): This organization focuses on supporting and encouraging youth as they create and produce their own writings and illustrations for publication.
Youth Music Exchange (http://www.youthmusicexchange.org): With programs in both New York City and Indianapolis, this program supports youth to produce their own music for youth music labels.
Educational Video Center (http://www.evc.org/): Based in Manhattan, this long-standing youth media program has a wide variety of film-based programs and activities for young people engage in as they become dedicated to creating positive social change.
Girls Write Now (http://www.girlswritenow.org): This all-girls program provides mentoring and writing instruction while also supporting young female authors and publishing their work.
Global Action Project (http://www.global-action.org): Working with youth from all of New York's boroughs, G.A.P. works to develop teens' leadership, critical thinking, and media production skills to create change.
Global Kids (http://www.globalkids.org/):Focused on developing global citizens, Global Kids uses digital media as one of its many techniques in teaching youth about worldwide issues while also developing thoughtful responses to these problems.
Ghetto Film School (http://www.ghettofilm.org): Based in the Bronx, this organization offers a variety of programs for young people in hopes of developing the next generation of storytellers.
New York State Summer School of Media Arts (http://www.p12.nysed.gov/nysssa/SMA/): A summer program for New York students in grades 8-12, NYSSSA is based in Albany, but the summer programs take place at various college campuses throughout the state.
PRO-TV (http://www.dctvny.org/youth/): Another long-standing training organization for youth producer, PRO-TV provides great opportunities to learn, practice, and master skills in media literacy and production.
Reel Works (http://www.reelworks.org/): With a firm belief that all teens have a story to tell that is worth hearing, this group provides over 150 youth in NYC with the opportunity to learn how to make their films.
Radio Rookies (http://www.wnyc.org/radiorookies/): Part of WNYC's programming, Radio Rookies gives teens the chance to share their stories with the world through public radio production.
Radio Rootz (http://www.peoplesproductionhouse.org/programs/radio-rootz): Started in NYC, Radio Rootz gave youth radio producers a chance for their voices to be heard, and now it has expanded to include other sites in Washington, D.C. and along the Gulf Coast.
Tribeca Film Institute (http://www.tribecafilminstitute.org/youth/): The Tribeca Film Institute offers a large number of programs for youth, offering both in-school and out-of-school support for young filmmakers.
Urban Word NYC (http://www.urbanwordnyc.org): This program supports young people and their voices through spoken word, poetry, hip-hop as well as journalism, writing, and other youth development programs.
Vision of Education & Media (http://www.vemny.org) This organization offers after-school programs for students of all ages to engage with new technologies and multimedia activities.
Willie Mae Rock Camp for Girls (http://www.girlsrockcamp.org): Another New York City organization, this one focuses on empowering girls and young women to fight for change by creating their own music.
Youth Channel (http://www.youthchannel.org/): As part of the Manhattan Neighborhood Network, this group encourages social action and political discussions among its youth media producers who work at the Youth Channel base in East Harlem.
Youth Communication (http://www.youthcomm.org): This organization focuses on supporting and encouraging youth as they create and produce their own writings and illustrations for publication.
Youth Music Exchange (http://www.youthmusicexchange.org): With programs in both New York City and Indianapolis, this program supports youth to produce their own music for youth music labels.
Philadelphia Area Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/632513
The After School Hip Hop Project (http://afterschoolhiphopproject.wordpress.com/): With a website that serves an online platform for youth producers to share their work, this program also offers programs to youth throughout the city.
Arts Rising (http://www.myartsrising.org): This group supports youth in- and out-of-schools by providing them with a variety of arts related programs, including a number of different media related programs.
Big Picture Alliance (http://bigpicturealliance.org/): This organization partners with existing community groups, schools, etc. to run their programs on film production for young producers.
Chester Voices for Change (http://chestervfc.wordpress.com/): Based in Chester, PA, this program provides opportunities for youth to learn the basics of film production while working to raise their voices to create community change.
Dollar Boyz (http://www.dollarboyz.com/): This group serves people throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware with programs for youth that include music and video production, among other activities and mentoring programs.
Dorrance H. Hamilton WHYY Public Media Commons (http://www.whyy.org/learninglab/): Part of the Philadelphia Public Broadcasting station, WHYY, the Public Media Commons provides courses to youth and adults in the community in both film and audio production.
Filmtech (http://www.filmtechschool.com): Providing courses to the public in film making, screen writing, acting, and production, Filmtech serves the greater Philadelphia area, including Delaware and New Jersey, in supporting people to make their own films.
Hearts and Minds Film (http://www.heartsandmindsfilm.org): Based in Wilmington, DE, the Media Mentors program trains college students in film production who in turn work with youth to produce their own media.
Hopeworks (http://www.hopeworks.org): A Camden-based program, Hopeworks hosts programs for in- and out-of-school youth to learn about video production, website design, geological information services (GIS), and computer networking and repair while developing as positive leaders and hopeful learners.
Interact Theater Company (http://www.interacttheatre.org): Through its InterAction program, this group works with young people and helps them to use theater as a form of social change.
Media Mobilizing Project (http://mediamobilizingproject.org/): This group works to end poverty and discrimination by supporting and uniting poor and working class people in media production, while also supporting the work of the Philadelphia Student Union.
Messages in Motion (http://messagesinmotion.com/): MIM is a mobile film production crew that works with local community groups upon request to make short pieces that encourage and develop community organizing.
Philadelphia Student Union (http://www.phillystudentunion.org): A youth-led, youth organizing group, PSU uses various forms of media to support its campaigns and mobilize around its efforts.
Presenting Our Perspective on Philly Youth News (POPPYN) (http://whatspoppyn.blogspot.com/): One of the University Community Collaborative of Philadelphia's programs, POPPYN is a youth-led, youth-focused news organization, giving youth voices an outlet.
Positive Minds (http://iampositiveminds.blogspot.com/): Currently in the Grays Ferry neighborhood of South Philadelphia, this group give youth the tools and opportunities to create their own media products.
Powerful Voices for Kids (http://mediaeducationlab.com/powerful-voices-kids): Built as a partnership between the Temple University Media Education Lab and the Russel-Byers Charter School, this program provides youth with media literacy education.
Scribe Video Center(http://www.scribe.org): An established community media center in West Philadelphia, Scribe offers many opportunities for youth producers, ranging from filming and editing to animation to new radio classes to support WPEB, a low-power radio station that Scribe helped to start.
The University Community Collaborative of Philadelphia (http://www.temple.edu/uccp/index.html): Based at Temple University, this organization hosts a number of youth leadership and development programs for youth and young adults and it uses media production throughout its programs.
Youth Empowerment Services (http://www.yesphilly.org/): Working with out-of-school youth, YES works to engage and educate these young people through job readiness programs and a unique curriculum that includes media production training.
Arts Rising (http://www.myartsrising.org): This group supports youth in- and out-of-schools by providing them with a variety of arts related programs, including a number of different media related programs.
Big Picture Alliance (http://bigpicturealliance.org/): This organization partners with existing community groups, schools, etc. to run their programs on film production for young producers.
Chester Voices for Change (http://chestervfc.wordpress.com/): Based in Chester, PA, this program provides opportunities for youth to learn the basics of film production while working to raise their voices to create community change.
Dollar Boyz (http://www.dollarboyz.com/): This group serves people throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware with programs for youth that include music and video production, among other activities and mentoring programs.
Dorrance H. Hamilton WHYY Public Media Commons (http://www.whyy.org/learninglab/): Part of the Philadelphia Public Broadcasting station, WHYY, the Public Media Commons provides courses to youth and adults in the community in both film and audio production.
Filmtech (http://www.filmtechschool.com): Providing courses to the public in film making, screen writing, acting, and production, Filmtech serves the greater Philadelphia area, including Delaware and New Jersey, in supporting people to make their own films.
Hearts and Minds Film (http://www.heartsandmindsfilm.org): Based in Wilmington, DE, the Media Mentors program trains college students in film production who in turn work with youth to produce their own media.
Hopeworks (http://www.hopeworks.org): A Camden-based program, Hopeworks hosts programs for in- and out-of-school youth to learn about video production, website design, geological information services (GIS), and computer networking and repair while developing as positive leaders and hopeful learners.
Interact Theater Company (http://www.interacttheatre.org): Through its InterAction program, this group works with young people and helps them to use theater as a form of social change.
Media Mobilizing Project (http://mediamobilizingproject.org/): This group works to end poverty and discrimination by supporting and uniting poor and working class people in media production, while also supporting the work of the Philadelphia Student Union.
Messages in Motion (http://messagesinmotion.com/): MIM is a mobile film production crew that works with local community groups upon request to make short pieces that encourage and develop community organizing.
Philadelphia Student Union (http://www.phillystudentunion.org): A youth-led, youth organizing group, PSU uses various forms of media to support its campaigns and mobilize around its efforts.
Presenting Our Perspective on Philly Youth News (POPPYN) (http://whatspoppyn.blogspot.com/): One of the University Community Collaborative of Philadelphia's programs, POPPYN is a youth-led, youth-focused news organization, giving youth voices an outlet.
Positive Minds (http://iampositiveminds.blogspot.com/): Currently in the Grays Ferry neighborhood of South Philadelphia, this group give youth the tools and opportunities to create their own media products.
Powerful Voices for Kids (http://mediaeducationlab.com/powerful-voices-kids): Built as a partnership between the Temple University Media Education Lab and the Russel-Byers Charter School, this program provides youth with media literacy education.
Scribe Video Center(http://www.scribe.org): An established community media center in West Philadelphia, Scribe offers many opportunities for youth producers, ranging from filming and editing to animation to new radio classes to support WPEB, a low-power radio station that Scribe helped to start.
The University Community Collaborative of Philadelphia (http://www.temple.edu/uccp/index.html): Based at Temple University, this organization hosts a number of youth leadership and development programs for youth and young adults and it uses media production throughout its programs.
Youth Empowerment Services (http://www.yesphilly.org/): Working with out-of-school youth, YES works to engage and educate these young people through job readiness programs and a unique curriculum that includes media production training.
Washington, D.C. Area Programs
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1225847
Digital Connectors (http://www.one-economy.com/node/56):
A Washington, D.C.-based program with new sites developing around the
country, Digital Connectors gives youth opportunities to engage with and
master technology while also supporting and helping their community
through providing services like trainings or creating how-to-guides.
Latin American Youth Center (http://layc-dc.org): The LAYC offers several programs that support and involve youth in media and art production.
Young D.C. (http://www.youngdc.org/): This long-standing program is a youth-produced and youth-inspired newspaper.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org/category/bureau/yr-washington-dc): The program originally from Oakland, CA has a branch in Washington, D.C. now as well.
Latin American Youth Center (http://layc-dc.org): The LAYC offers several programs that support and involve youth in media and art production.
Young D.C. (http://www.youngdc.org/): This long-standing program is a youth-produced and youth-inspired newspaper.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org/category/bureau/yr-washington-dc): The program originally from Oakland, CA has a branch in Washington, D.C. now as well.
Other Eastern & Mid-Atlantic Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1294201
Blunt Youth Radio (http://www.bluntradio.org/): Based in Portland, ME, Blunt Youth Radio is a longstanding, well-established youth radio group that trains youth in all aspects of radio.
Buffalo Youth Media Institute (http://www.squeaky.org/bymi): This Buffalo, NY program provides area youth media training that also engages them with their own community.
Cambridge Community Art Center (http://www.communityartcenter.org/): This Center is home to the Teen Media Program (TMP), which supports and encourages young people to produce their own media. It is also home to the completely youth-run film festival, the Do It Your Damn Self!! Film Festival, which is held annually each fall.
Cambridge Community Television (http://www.cctvcambridge.org/youth): Another Cambridge, MA program, this one provides youth with a number of opportunities to produce their own media throughout the academic year and summer months.
Children's Media Project (http://www.childrensmediaproject.org): Stationed in Poughkeepsie, NY, the Children's Media Project works to empower youth through production of programs for both TV and radio. Their TV programs are broadcast across the country.
City Voices, City Visions (http://gse.buffalo.edu/org/cityvoices): Run through the State College of New York at Buffalo, this program supports teachers and youth to learn, master, and share skills in media production as a way to support academic learning.
Native Vision (http://www.nativevision.org): This program, run through John's Hopkins University in Baltimore, is focused on promoting healthy well-being among indigenous youth, and although focused on athletics, it includes some media production programs and campaigns.
The News Literacy Project (http://www.thenewsliteracyproject.org):In hopes of helping students to distinguish fact from fiction, the News Literacy Project has seasoned journalists work with teachers and students in schools in New York, Chicago, and Bethesda, MD to develop critical thinking and analysis skills as well as journalistic and new media skills.
Wide Angle Youth Media (http://www.wideanglemedia.org/mod/): A Baltimore-based program, Wide Angle Youth Media focuses on supporting youth to produce their own media, and it runs an annual youth media festival as well as a youth-run television show.
Youth Rights Media (http://blog.youthrightsmedia.org/): An organization that works to empower youth through a combination of community organizing and media production training, Youth Rights Media is based in New Haven, CT.
Buffalo Youth Media Institute (http://www.squeaky.org/bymi): This Buffalo, NY program provides area youth media training that also engages them with their own community.
Cambridge Community Art Center (http://www.communityartcenter.org/): This Center is home to the Teen Media Program (TMP), which supports and encourages young people to produce their own media. It is also home to the completely youth-run film festival, the Do It Your Damn Self!! Film Festival, which is held annually each fall.
Cambridge Community Television (http://www.cctvcambridge.org/youth): Another Cambridge, MA program, this one provides youth with a number of opportunities to produce their own media throughout the academic year and summer months.
Children's Media Project (http://www.childrensmediaproject.org): Stationed in Poughkeepsie, NY, the Children's Media Project works to empower youth through production of programs for both TV and radio. Their TV programs are broadcast across the country.
City Voices, City Visions (http://gse.buffalo.edu/org/cityvoices): Run through the State College of New York at Buffalo, this program supports teachers and youth to learn, master, and share skills in media production as a way to support academic learning.
Native Vision (http://www.nativevision.org): This program, run through John's Hopkins University in Baltimore, is focused on promoting healthy well-being among indigenous youth, and although focused on athletics, it includes some media production programs and campaigns.
The News Literacy Project (http://www.thenewsliteracyproject.org):In hopes of helping students to distinguish fact from fiction, the News Literacy Project has seasoned journalists work with teachers and students in schools in New York, Chicago, and Bethesda, MD to develop critical thinking and analysis skills as well as journalistic and new media skills.
Wide Angle Youth Media (http://www.wideanglemedia.org/mod/): A Baltimore-based program, Wide Angle Youth Media focuses on supporting youth to produce their own media, and it runs an annual youth media festival as well as a youth-run television show.
Youth Rights Media (http://blog.youthrightsmedia.org/): An organization that works to empower youth through a combination of community organizing and media production training, Youth Rights Media is based in New Haven, CT.
Atlanta Area Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/201606
FUEL Media (http://www.peopletv.org/ptv_youth.html): Part of local cable channel, this organization works with young people in Atlanta to work together towards "Forging Unity Equality Leadership through media."
Glitch: Game Testers (http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~tjohnson3/GlitchTest.html): A project with Georgia Tech and Morehouse College, this Atlanta-based program supports young gamers who are interested in testing products and learning more about the gaming business.
VOX Teen Communications (http://www.voxrox.org/): Youth from all around Atlanta come together in this group to write articles about ideas and issues that important to them while also designing the layout for their newspaper and website.
Youth Media Minds of America (http://www.ymma.org): This program works with youth aged 14-18 to support their education and to help them gain important skills for success in the media and communications field.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org/category/bureau/yr-atlanta): Although originally based in Oakland, CA, Youth Radio expanded to include a site in Atlanta.
Glitch: Game Testers (http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~tjohnson3/GlitchTest.html): A project with Georgia Tech and Morehouse College, this Atlanta-based program supports young gamers who are interested in testing products and learning more about the gaming business.
VOX Teen Communications (http://www.voxrox.org/): Youth from all around Atlanta come together in this group to write articles about ideas and issues that important to them while also designing the layout for their newspaper and website.
Youth Media Minds of America (http://www.ymma.org): This program works with youth aged 14-18 to support their education and to help them gain important skills for success in the media and communications field.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org/category/bureau/yr-atlanta): Although originally based in Oakland, CA, Youth Radio expanded to include a site in Atlanta.
Other Southern Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/680694
Appalachian Media Institute (http://appalshop.org/ami/): Based in Whitesburg, KY, this organization provides media trainings and support for the rural youth voices of Appalachia.
New Orleans Video Access Center (http://novacvideo.org): A community resource for all of New Orleans, NOVAC has trainings and workshops for people of all ages, including youth.
Say Sí Media (http://www.saysimedia.org/): From San Antonio, TX, this group works with young producers to help them become creative leaders and artists.
T Tauri Film Festival & Movie Camp (http://www.ttauri.org/): The youth portion of the Ozark Foothills FilmFest, this program provides film training and a youth film festival to youth in rural Locust Grove, AR.
The Youth Innovation Project (http://www.teenedge.com/yip/default.aspx): Based in Nashville, this youth organizing group also uses media as a tool for creating change.
New Orleans Video Access Center (http://novacvideo.org): A community resource for all of New Orleans, NOVAC has trainings and workshops for people of all ages, including youth.
Say Sí Media (http://www.saysimedia.org/): From San Antonio, TX, this group works with young producers to help them become creative leaders and artists.
T Tauri Film Festival & Movie Camp (http://www.ttauri.org/): The youth portion of the Ozark Foothills FilmFest, this program provides film training and a youth film festival to youth in rural Locust Grove, AR.
The Youth Innovation Project (http://www.teenedge.com/yip/default.aspx): Based in Nashville, this youth organizing group also uses media as a tool for creating change.
Chicago Area Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/897731
Beyondmedia Education (http://www.beyondmedia.org/): Working with youth, women, and other under-represented communities, Beyondmedia helps unheard stories be documented and shared.
Chicago Youth Voices Network (http://cyvn.org/): A collaboration between about 8 youth media programs in Chicago, this network aims to support youth across the city.
Community TV (http://www.ctvnetwork.org): This organization supports low-income youth and adults in TV production, including lots for youth producers specifically.
Free Spirit Media (http://www.freespiritmedia.org/): Working with over 500 Chicago youth each year, this program supports youth development through media production programs across the city.
Open Youth Networks (http://www.openyouthnetworks.org): A program from the Columbia College Department of Interactive Arts & Media, there are a wide variety of programs offered through Open Youth Networks that connect with multiple parts of media literacy.
Radio Arte (http://wrte.org): A bilingual, Latino-owned, and youth-driven radio station, Radio Arte focuses on sharing music, ideas, and programming that are often unheard in mainstream media while also training youth to direct, operate, and organize the radio station.
Street-Level Youth Media (http://www.street-level.org): This established program teaches Chicago youth how to use and communicate in many forms of new media.
True Star (http://www.truestarfoundation.org): This vibrant network of young artists, including writers, photographers, graphic artists, and more, works together to publish a magazine by youth for youth in Chicago.
We the People Media (http://wethepeoplemedia.org/youth): The youth program for We the People Media is part of the McCormick Foundation's Urban Youth International Journalism program, which supports young people to learn from experts in journalism.
YOUmedia (http://youmediachicago.org): Located in the downtown branch of Chicago's Public Library, this program provides a creative and supportive environment for young people to engage with all forms of texts, new and old, as they create and collaborate.
Young Chicago Authors (http://youngchicagoauthors.org/): Focused on changing and improving the lives of youth, this program supports young authors to write, share, and publish their work.
Chicago Youth Voices Network (http://cyvn.org/): A collaboration between about 8 youth media programs in Chicago, this network aims to support youth across the city.
Community TV (http://www.ctvnetwork.org): This organization supports low-income youth and adults in TV production, including lots for youth producers specifically.
Free Spirit Media (http://www.freespiritmedia.org/): Working with over 500 Chicago youth each year, this program supports youth development through media production programs across the city.
Open Youth Networks (http://www.openyouthnetworks.org): A program from the Columbia College Department of Interactive Arts & Media, there are a wide variety of programs offered through Open Youth Networks that connect with multiple parts of media literacy.
Radio Arte (http://wrte.org): A bilingual, Latino-owned, and youth-driven radio station, Radio Arte focuses on sharing music, ideas, and programming that are often unheard in mainstream media while also training youth to direct, operate, and organize the radio station.
Street-Level Youth Media (http://www.street-level.org): This established program teaches Chicago youth how to use and communicate in many forms of new media.
True Star (http://www.truestarfoundation.org): This vibrant network of young artists, including writers, photographers, graphic artists, and more, works together to publish a magazine by youth for youth in Chicago.
We the People Media (http://wethepeoplemedia.org/youth): The youth program for We the People Media is part of the McCormick Foundation's Urban Youth International Journalism program, which supports young people to learn from experts in journalism.
YOUmedia (http://youmediachicago.org): Located in the downtown branch of Chicago's Public Library, this program provides a creative and supportive environment for young people to engage with all forms of texts, new and old, as they create and collaborate.
Young Chicago Authors (http://youngchicagoauthors.org/): Focused on changing and improving the lives of youth, this program supports young authors to write, share, and publish their work.
Other Midwestern Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/950781
8-18 Media (http://www.upcmkids.org/818media.htm): Based in Marquette, MI, this group works to empower young voices through media production training and opportunities to share their stories through radio and print journalism.
The Community Media Project (http://www.communitymediaproject.blogspot.com): Part of the Film Department at the Peck School of the Arts in the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, this program hosts films screening and offers trainings for teachers and young producers focused on increasing understanding of the African diaspora.
Detroit Digital Justice Coalition (http://detroitdjc.org/): This group of individuals and organizations from Detroit, MI work to support, encourage, and create digital justice through training workshops and other opportunities.
The DigMe Program (http://www.digitalmediastudies.org): A collaboration between the University of Minnesota and Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, this program incorporates digital media production into a college preparatory program at school.
Grand Rapids Community Media Center (http://www.grcmc.org/): This community resource center in Grand Rapids, MI, provides classes available to all members of the community, including youth.
Media Bridges (http://www.mediabridges.org/): From Cincinnati, OH, this organization strives to provide resources, support, and instruction to people interested in making their own media. It uses a check-out system for equipment and other resources and also has a local TV channel that you could use to broadcast your products.
Rhino's Youth Media Center (http://www.rhinosyouthcenter.org/): Based in Bloomington, IN, this center provides a variety of programs for youth, including video, journalism, radio, and mural arts projects for teenagers.
Youth Music Exchange (http://www.youthmusicexchange.org): With programs in both New York City and Indianapolis, this program supports youth to produce their own music for youth music labels.
Y-Press (http://www.ypress.org): Working in Indianapolis, IN, Y-Press provides, supports, and promotes opportunities for youth development and leadership through media production.
The Community Media Project (http://www.communitymediaproject.blogspot.com): Part of the Film Department at the Peck School of the Arts in the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, this program hosts films screening and offers trainings for teachers and young producers focused on increasing understanding of the African diaspora.
Detroit Digital Justice Coalition (http://detroitdjc.org/): This group of individuals and organizations from Detroit, MI work to support, encourage, and create digital justice through training workshops and other opportunities.
The DigMe Program (http://www.digitalmediastudies.org): A collaboration between the University of Minnesota and Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, this program incorporates digital media production into a college preparatory program at school.
Grand Rapids Community Media Center (http://www.grcmc.org/): This community resource center in Grand Rapids, MI, provides classes available to all members of the community, including youth.
Media Bridges (http://www.mediabridges.org/): From Cincinnati, OH, this organization strives to provide resources, support, and instruction to people interested in making their own media. It uses a check-out system for equipment and other resources and also has a local TV channel that you could use to broadcast your products.
Rhino's Youth Media Center (http://www.rhinosyouthcenter.org/): Based in Bloomington, IN, this center provides a variety of programs for youth, including video, journalism, radio, and mural arts projects for teenagers.
Youth Music Exchange (http://www.youthmusicexchange.org): With programs in both New York City and Indianapolis, this program supports youth to produce their own music for youth music labels.
Y-Press (http://www.ypress.org): Working in Indianapolis, IN, Y-Press provides, supports, and promotes opportunities for youth development and leadership through media production.
Seattle Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/17012
911 Media Arts Center (http://www.911media.org): This group provides trainings and programs, including some for youth, focused on developing media literate artists and leaders for the 21st century.
Longhouse Media (http://longhousemedia.org/): This organization is focused on providing indigenous people with the tools and opportunities to share their stories through media, and includes a number of youth-focused programs.
Reel Grrls (http://www.reelgrrls.org): Based in Seattle, WA, this group provides media literacy training and skill development to adolescent girls to empower them and help them build confidence.
Youth Media Institute (http://www.youthmediaseattle.org): Another Seattle-based program, the Youth Media Institute works to empower youth as leaders and artists through media production training and sharing of products.
Longhouse Media (http://longhousemedia.org/): This organization is focused on providing indigenous people with the tools and opportunities to share their stories through media, and includes a number of youth-focused programs.
Reel Grrls (http://www.reelgrrls.org): Based in Seattle, WA, this group provides media literacy training and skill development to adolescent girls to empower them and help them build confidence.
Youth Media Institute (http://www.youthmediaseattle.org): Another Seattle-based program, the Youth Media Institute works to empower youth as leaders and artists through media production training and sharing of products.
San Francisco Bay Area Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/999859
Bay Area Video Center (http://www.bavc.org): BAVC has a number of opportunities for youth through its Next Generation program, including BUMP, Digital Pathways, and The Factory, which are included below.
The Beat Within (http://thebeatwithin.org): This is a program for incarcerated youth to express themselves through the creation of newsletters/journals, which hope to build a bridge between youth program members and their peers and communities.
BUMP Records (http://www.bavc.org/bump): A youth-run record label, Bay Unity Music Project encourages young musicians and artists to record, share, and perform their work.
Conscious Youth Media Crew (http://consciousyouthmediacrew.org): Focused on helping and encouraging young people to create, conscious, creative, and critical media, this organization focuses on supporting youth and their communities in working for change.
Digital Pathways (http://www.bavc.org/adp): Part of the Bay Area Video Center, this program supports youth interested in video, game design and animation, audio, and open source learning while also connecting them with paid internships in the field.
The Factory (http://www.bavc.org/factory): Another one of the Bay Area Video Center's youth programs, The Factory is an advanced video production program focused on youth expression and collaboration with local organizations and community members.
The kNOw (http://www.theknowfresno.org): Based in Fresno, the kNOw works to create community and enhance literacy and media skills among youth.
Midpeninsula Community Media Center (http://midpenmedia.org/index.html): Based in Palo Alto, this group works for community members to create their own media and hosts a number of workshops and trainings for youth specifically.
Road Dawgz (http://home.roaddawgz.org):This organization provides a variety of supports to homeless youth, including supporting their artist work and productions.
Silicon Valley De-Bug (http://www.siliconvalleydebug.org/): A San José based program, this organization has a number of opportunities for young writers, artists, and producers to share their work.
Youth Movement Records (http://www.youthmovementrecords.org): An Oakland-based organization, YMR supports young artists to raise their voices and work for change through programs associated with their own music label.
YO! Youth Outlook (http://www.youthoutlook.org): A youth-produced literary journal, Youth Outlook gives young artists and writes the opportunity for their voices to be heard.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org): A well-established, Oakland-based program, Youth Radio is a truly collaborative effort between youth producers and adult media makers. It has also expanded to Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and Los Angeles.
Youth Speaks (http://youthspeaks.org): With a firm belief in the power of youth, this program encourages and develops young artists, particularly through the use of poetry and spoken word, and supports young people to create positive change in their communities.
The Beat Within (http://thebeatwithin.org): This is a program for incarcerated youth to express themselves through the creation of newsletters/journals, which hope to build a bridge between youth program members and their peers and communities.
BUMP Records (http://www.bavc.org/bump): A youth-run record label, Bay Unity Music Project encourages young musicians and artists to record, share, and perform their work.
Conscious Youth Media Crew (http://consciousyouthmediacrew.org): Focused on helping and encouraging young people to create, conscious, creative, and critical media, this organization focuses on supporting youth and their communities in working for change.
Digital Pathways (http://www.bavc.org/adp): Part of the Bay Area Video Center, this program supports youth interested in video, game design and animation, audio, and open source learning while also connecting them with paid internships in the field.
The Factory (http://www.bavc.org/factory): Another one of the Bay Area Video Center's youth programs, The Factory is an advanced video production program focused on youth expression and collaboration with local organizations and community members.
The kNOw (http://www.theknowfresno.org): Based in Fresno, the kNOw works to create community and enhance literacy and media skills among youth.
Midpeninsula Community Media Center (http://midpenmedia.org/index.html): Based in Palo Alto, this group works for community members to create their own media and hosts a number of workshops and trainings for youth specifically.
Road Dawgz (http://home.roaddawgz.org):This organization provides a variety of supports to homeless youth, including supporting their artist work and productions.
Silicon Valley De-Bug (http://www.siliconvalleydebug.org/): A San José based program, this organization has a number of opportunities for young writers, artists, and producers to share their work.
Youth Movement Records (http://www.youthmovementrecords.org): An Oakland-based organization, YMR supports young artists to raise their voices and work for change through programs associated with their own music label.
YO! Youth Outlook (http://www.youthoutlook.org): A youth-produced literary journal, Youth Outlook gives young artists and writes the opportunity for their voices to be heard.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org): A well-established, Oakland-based program, Youth Radio is a truly collaborative effort between youth producers and adult media makers. It has also expanded to Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and Los Angeles.
Youth Speaks (http://youthspeaks.org): With a firm belief in the power of youth, this program encourages and develops young artists, particularly through the use of poetry and spoken word, and supports young people to create positive change in their communities.
Los Angeles Area Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/496561
Global Girl Media (http://www.globalgirlmedia.org): Global Girl Media's KICK IT UP! program works with young women in Los Angeles, CA and Johannesburg, South Africa to create a better world through the use of their voices and training in journalism and new media.
LA Youth (http://www.layouth.com): This youth-driven and, in-part, youth-staffed program creates a newspaper "by and about teens."
Newspapers2 (http://web.mac.com/amara_media/Newspapers2/Home.html): This group provides trainings in journalism to youth and to adults through professional development workshops.
Public Matters (http://www.publicmattersgroup.com): Focused on fostering social engagement through creativity, Public Matters works with the Los Angeles community - including youth and adults - in media production and activism.
REACH LA (http://www.reach.la/): This Los Angeles based group takes a healthy living approach to youth media, focusing on teen health issues and ways to teach fellow teens how to live a healthy, productive life.
Urban Media Foundation (http://urbanmediafoundation.org): Working to empower young people through knowledge, experience, and training, this group supports youth interested in journalism, media, and communications.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org/category/bureau/yr-los-angeles): The Oakland-based organization has expanded to include youth radio producers in L.A.
Youth Media Los Angeles Collaborative (http://www.ymla.org/): A collection of youth media programs in LA, this group advocates for young journalists and connects them with other youth and adult experts in the field.
LA Youth (http://www.layouth.com): This youth-driven and, in-part, youth-staffed program creates a newspaper "by and about teens."
Newspapers2 (http://web.mac.com/amara_media/Newspapers2/Home.html): This group provides trainings in journalism to youth and to adults through professional development workshops.
Public Matters (http://www.publicmattersgroup.com): Focused on fostering social engagement through creativity, Public Matters works with the Los Angeles community - including youth and adults - in media production and activism.
REACH LA (http://www.reach.la/): This Los Angeles based group takes a healthy living approach to youth media, focusing on teen health issues and ways to teach fellow teens how to live a healthy, productive life.
Urban Media Foundation (http://urbanmediafoundation.org): Working to empower young people through knowledge, experience, and training, this group supports youth interested in journalism, media, and communications.
Youth Radio (http://www.youthradio.org/category/bureau/yr-los-angeles): The Oakland-based organization has expanded to include youth radio producers in L.A.
Youth Media Los Angeles Collaborative (http://www.ymla.org/): A collection of youth media programs in LA, this group advocates for young journalists and connects them with other youth and adult experts in the field.
Other Western Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1035138
Alaska Teen Media Institute (http://www.alaskateenmedia.org/):
A Spirit of Youth program in Anchorage, AK, this program provides
journalism training to teens interested in raising their voices,
including by hosting their own youth radio show.
California Digital Arts (http://www.caldigarts.org/): A collective of California's youth media organizations, this coalition works to support young people to engage academically and gain important 21st century media-related skills.
Fort Collins Youth Broadcasting (http://www.fcyb.org/): Based in Fort Collins, CO, this group works on a student-driven and student-operated radio station focused on issues for high school students.
Hands On Camera (http://handsonacamera.org/): A service-learning media literacy program based at Brigham Young University in Provo, UT, Hands On Media connects university and K-12 students through digital media production.
KBOO Youth Collective (http://kboo.fm/youth): The Youth Collective of KBOO, a community-run radio station in Portland, OR, creates content and hosts shows focused on youth issues.
The Media Literacy Project (http://medialiteracyproject.org): From Albuquerque, NM, this group provides programs for youth as well as trainings and curricular materials for educators.
Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls (http://www.girlsrockcamp.org): Based in Portland, OR, this camp supports and mentor young women while encouraging them to express themselves and fight discrimination through rock 'n' roll.
Spy Hop Productions (http://www.spyhop.org/): In Salt Lake City, UT, Spy Hop works with young people in all kinds of media production, ranging from film to music to gaming. It is a great resource for youth in the Salt Lake City area.
California Digital Arts (http://www.caldigarts.org/): A collective of California's youth media organizations, this coalition works to support young people to engage academically and gain important 21st century media-related skills.
Fort Collins Youth Broadcasting (http://www.fcyb.org/): Based in Fort Collins, CO, this group works on a student-driven and student-operated radio station focused on issues for high school students.
Hands On Camera (http://handsonacamera.org/): A service-learning media literacy program based at Brigham Young University in Provo, UT, Hands On Media connects university and K-12 students through digital media production.
KBOO Youth Collective (http://kboo.fm/youth): The Youth Collective of KBOO, a community-run radio station in Portland, OR, creates content and hosts shows focused on youth issues.
The Media Literacy Project (http://medialiteracyproject.org): From Albuquerque, NM, this group provides programs for youth as well as trainings and curricular materials for educators.
Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls (http://www.girlsrockcamp.org): Based in Portland, OR, this camp supports and mentor young women while encouraging them to express themselves and fight discrimination through rock 'n' roll.
Spy Hop Productions (http://www.spyhop.org/): In Salt Lake City, UT, Spy Hop works with young people in all kinds of media production, ranging from film to music to gaming. It is a great resource for youth in the Salt Lake City area.
International Organizations - Back to Top
Photo courtesy of http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1215844
There a number of programs that support various youth media programs across borders.Included here are organizations that work in multiple countries and regions, as well as some specific programs grouped roughly by region. Only a few of the specific programs run by the cross-national organizations are listed below, so click on their links to look for more information about their other programs.
CROSS-NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
UNICEF provides support for a great deal of international youth media organization through the Media Activities and Good Ideas by, with and for Children (MAGIC) program. You can easily browse or search for specific organizations by going here.
Plan is a global child development organization that houses a number of youth media projects throughout the world, including many in Africa and South Asia. Look through some of their programs by clicking here.
The World Radio Forum works to support and encourage youth radio around the globe and has a long list, although somewhat outdated, list of radio organizations across the world, which you can find here.
The Communication Initiative Network is based in Canada, but has an extensive number of resources available for stakeholders in youth media, including a growing list of international organizations dedicated to supporting youth producers.
AnimAction, Inc. is a group that gives youth opportunities to work collaboratively and express their creativity by providing training in animation and other new technologies to youth internationally.
World Children's Radio is an international organization that supports young children to develop their own voices by creating and sharing radio pieces.
Global Video Letters works with young people from Rio de Janiero, Brazil, the Bronx in New York City, and Birar, India to create video letters about their communities and build cross-cultural relationships through sharing the letters.
EUROPE - Back to top
AllAboutUS FilmFactory (http://www.allaboutusfilmfactory.com/eng/): Based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, this organization provides training to youth in film and media production as they work to become active, educated, and engaged citizens.
European Youth Press (http://www.youthpress.org/): This group is an umbrella organization that houses a number of programs throughout Europe to support, guide, and encourage young journalists.
Headliners, UK (http://www.headliners.org): This British organization works with young journalists in hopes of supporting them to investigate, question, and participate in their society and the world.
FILMCLUB (http://www.filmclub.org/): This England-based group works to help schools start their own film clubs as a way for students to watch, analyze, and discuss films.
First Light (http://www.firstlightonline.co.uk/): A British organization that supports young producers throughout the entire production process from first drafts to final products, it provides opportunities to work with adult professionals and get funding to support youth work.
Media Box (http://www.media-box.co.uk): This group supports young producers in the creation and sharing of their work, particularly through providing funding as a source of support.
RADIJOJO (http://www.radijojo.de/): A program focused on young children, ages 3-13, RADIJOJO helps youth to create their own radio shows and share them with others. It is based in Berlin, Germany, but is connected and broadcast worldwide.
Radio Regan (http://www.radioregen.org/): Another British organization, Radio Regan works with young producers in many different parts of the country, supporting and encouraging them to develop their skills as producers as leaders.
Radio Trousseau (http://www.radiotrousseau.com/): Working from a children's hospital in Paris, this group helps youth create and share media that help them and others deal with trauma and other issues.
Sparksite (http://www.sparksite.co.uk/): An online site and radio program by and for youth, this program is based in Wiltshire, England.
Takeover Radio (http://www.takeoverradio.co.uk/): This British group supports a couple of local community radio stations, including opportunities for youth to get involved and host their own live shows.
AFRICA - Back to top
Bush Radio (http://www.bushradio.co.za/): A longstanding youth-based radio program in South Africa focused on ensuring that underprivileged and disadvantaged people have the abilities and access to create their own radio.
Global Girl Media (http://www.globalgirlmedia.org): Global Girl Media's KICK IT UP! program works with young women in Los Angeles, CA and Johannesburg, South Africa to create a better world through the use of their voices and training in journalism and new media.
Golden Kids News (http://www.sfcg.org/programmes/sierra/sierra_talking.html): A Talking Drum Studios program in Sierra Lione, this is a radio program that is made for kids by kids, supporting their production skills and their hopes for creating a positive future in their country.
Mundo Sem Segredos (http://www.mediasupport.org/mozambique-2-g.asp): Based in Mozambique, this radio program is youth-produced and focused on raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in the community.
WeOwnTV (http://www.weowntv.org/): A project in Sierra Lione, WeOwnTV works with young people to raise their voices and create positive change in their communities through video production.
ASIA - Back to top
The Butterflies Programme (http://www.butterflieschildrights.org/media.php): From New Delhi, India, this organization provides support and programs for street children, including training in media production among many other supports.
Finding a Voice (http://www.findingavoice.org): This group of researchers interested in looking at creative engagement in undeserved communities built a network between 15 local community organizations in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia, all of which are focused on using media or new technologies.
Radio Education for Afghan Children (http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/specials/1843_AfghanProject/): Based in Kabul, REACH is part of the BBC's Afghan Education project that works with young people to help them learn and explore through radio.
Thai Youth Action Program Foundation (http://www.tyap.org/): Based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, this organization works with youth from Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand to think, educate, and lead. Creating a local youth media network is one way TYAP encourages these young people to think critically about issues in their communities and lead a movement of change.
AUSTRALIA - Back to top
Student Youth Network (http://syn.org.au/): From Melbourne, Australia, SYN is youth-led and provides extensive experience for young people to create their own media and broadcast it all on local radio and television.
Youth Worx Media (http://youthworx.org.au/): Another group from Melbourne, Australia, Youth Worx gives underprivileged youth opportunities to engage with and produce their own media, which is often showcased on SYN.
CANADA - Back to top
Radio Enfant (http://radioenfant.ca/): Based in Quebec, this French-Canadian group supports and trains young radio producers in school and at a youth radio station, helping to guide youth through the production process to develop social and personal skills and competencies.
Youth in Media (http://www.youthinmedia.com): Focused on using media to bring attention to environmental issues and solutions throughout Canada, this group gives teens a chance to put their passions for the environment and media production together to produce PSAs and other products for national use.
THE CARIBBEAN & CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA - Back to top
¡¡Cámara! Ahí Nos Vemos (http://www.nokia.com.mx/acerca-de-nokia/responsabilidad-corporativa/proyectos-sociales/proyectos-desarollados/camara-ahi-nos-vemos): An effort from Nokia in México, this program supports youth to make their own video documentaries.
Audiovisuales Educativos (http://www.aveduc.netfirms.com/): A youth audio and visual production program in Cochabamba, Bolivia, this program, called AVE, works to inspire and support young people through media production training and space to practice.
Radio Encuentro (http://www.radioencuentro.org.ar/): Based in Viedma, Argentina, this radio organization is focused on building and supporting a more just society through community radio, particularly by impoverished groups of society. This includes el Centro Juvenil, or youth center, which teaches adolescents how to make their own radio.
Radio Kids (http://www.radiokids.com.ar/): Another Argentinian group, Radio Kids worked with young children and their families to produce creative, recreational, and educational radio, specifically targeting youth in its base of Buenos Aires.
Sisichakunaq Pukllaynin (http://www.pukllasunchis.org/radio/): Working with youth near Cuzco, Perú, this program of la Asociación Pukllasunchis helps young people learn and master radio production skills.
Taller de Paz (http://www.tallerdepaz.org): Focused on helping youth create peaceful solutions to problems, Taller de Paz uses art and digital media to help the youth and communities near Bogotá, Columbia.
Vwa timoun yo/Our Own Voice (http://www.vwatimounyo.org/english/about.php): Based in Haiti, this program focuses on supporting and sharing the work of young journalists in Haiti, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
CROSS-NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
UNICEF provides support for a great deal of international youth media organization through the Media Activities and Good Ideas by, with and for Children (MAGIC) program. You can easily browse or search for specific organizations by going here.
Plan is a global child development organization that houses a number of youth media projects throughout the world, including many in Africa and South Asia. Look through some of their programs by clicking here.
The World Radio Forum works to support and encourage youth radio around the globe and has a long list, although somewhat outdated, list of radio organizations across the world, which you can find here.
The Communication Initiative Network is based in Canada, but has an extensive number of resources available for stakeholders in youth media, including a growing list of international organizations dedicated to supporting youth producers.
AnimAction, Inc. is a group that gives youth opportunities to work collaboratively and express their creativity by providing training in animation and other new technologies to youth internationally.
World Children's Radio is an international organization that supports young children to develop their own voices by creating and sharing radio pieces.
Global Video Letters works with young people from Rio de Janiero, Brazil, the Bronx in New York City, and Birar, India to create video letters about their communities and build cross-cultural relationships through sharing the letters.
EUROPE - Back to top
AllAboutUS FilmFactory (http://www.allaboutusfilmfactory.com/eng/): Based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, this organization provides training to youth in film and media production as they work to become active, educated, and engaged citizens.
European Youth Press (http://www.youthpress.org/): This group is an umbrella organization that houses a number of programs throughout Europe to support, guide, and encourage young journalists.
Headliners, UK (http://www.headliners.org): This British organization works with young journalists in hopes of supporting them to investigate, question, and participate in their society and the world.
FILMCLUB (http://www.filmclub.org/): This England-based group works to help schools start their own film clubs as a way for students to watch, analyze, and discuss films.
First Light (http://www.firstlightonline.co.uk/): A British organization that supports young producers throughout the entire production process from first drafts to final products, it provides opportunities to work with adult professionals and get funding to support youth work.
Media Box (http://www.media-box.co.uk): This group supports young producers in the creation and sharing of their work, particularly through providing funding as a source of support.
RADIJOJO (http://www.radijojo.de/): A program focused on young children, ages 3-13, RADIJOJO helps youth to create their own radio shows and share them with others. It is based in Berlin, Germany, but is connected and broadcast worldwide.
Radio Regan (http://www.radioregen.org/): Another British organization, Radio Regan works with young producers in many different parts of the country, supporting and encouraging them to develop their skills as producers as leaders.
Radio Trousseau (http://www.radiotrousseau.com/): Working from a children's hospital in Paris, this group helps youth create and share media that help them and others deal with trauma and other issues.
Sparksite (http://www.sparksite.co.uk/): An online site and radio program by and for youth, this program is based in Wiltshire, England.
Takeover Radio (http://www.takeoverradio.co.uk/): This British group supports a couple of local community radio stations, including opportunities for youth to get involved and host their own live shows.
AFRICA - Back to top
Bush Radio (http://www.bushradio.co.za/): A longstanding youth-based radio program in South Africa focused on ensuring that underprivileged and disadvantaged people have the abilities and access to create their own radio.
Global Girl Media (http://www.globalgirlmedia.org): Global Girl Media's KICK IT UP! program works with young women in Los Angeles, CA and Johannesburg, South Africa to create a better world through the use of their voices and training in journalism and new media.
Golden Kids News (http://www.sfcg.org/programmes/sierra/sierra_talking.html): A Talking Drum Studios program in Sierra Lione, this is a radio program that is made for kids by kids, supporting their production skills and their hopes for creating a positive future in their country.
Mundo Sem Segredos (http://www.mediasupport.org/mozambique-2-g.asp): Based in Mozambique, this radio program is youth-produced and focused on raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in the community.
WeOwnTV (http://www.weowntv.org/): A project in Sierra Lione, WeOwnTV works with young people to raise their voices and create positive change in their communities through video production.
ASIA - Back to top
The Butterflies Programme (http://www.butterflieschildrights.org/media.php): From New Delhi, India, this organization provides support and programs for street children, including training in media production among many other supports.
Finding a Voice (http://www.findingavoice.org): This group of researchers interested in looking at creative engagement in undeserved communities built a network between 15 local community organizations in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia, all of which are focused on using media or new technologies.
Radio Education for Afghan Children (http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/specials/1843_AfghanProject/): Based in Kabul, REACH is part of the BBC's Afghan Education project that works with young people to help them learn and explore through radio.
Thai Youth Action Program Foundation (http://www.tyap.org/): Based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, this organization works with youth from Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand to think, educate, and lead. Creating a local youth media network is one way TYAP encourages these young people to think critically about issues in their communities and lead a movement of change.
AUSTRALIA - Back to top
Student Youth Network (http://syn.org.au/): From Melbourne, Australia, SYN is youth-led and provides extensive experience for young people to create their own media and broadcast it all on local radio and television.
Youth Worx Media (http://youthworx.org.au/): Another group from Melbourne, Australia, Youth Worx gives underprivileged youth opportunities to engage with and produce their own media, which is often showcased on SYN.
CANADA - Back to top
Radio Enfant (http://radioenfant.ca/): Based in Quebec, this French-Canadian group supports and trains young radio producers in school and at a youth radio station, helping to guide youth through the production process to develop social and personal skills and competencies.
Youth in Media (http://www.youthinmedia.com): Focused on using media to bring attention to environmental issues and solutions throughout Canada, this group gives teens a chance to put their passions for the environment and media production together to produce PSAs and other products for national use.
THE CARIBBEAN & CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA - Back to top
¡¡Cámara! Ahí Nos Vemos (http://www.nokia.com.mx/acerca-de-nokia/responsabilidad-corporativa/proyectos-sociales/proyectos-desarollados/camara-ahi-nos-vemos): An effort from Nokia in México, this program supports youth to make their own video documentaries.
Audiovisuales Educativos (http://www.aveduc.netfirms.com/): A youth audio and visual production program in Cochabamba, Bolivia, this program, called AVE, works to inspire and support young people through media production training and space to practice.
Radio Encuentro (http://www.radioencuentro.org.ar/): Based in Viedma, Argentina, this radio organization is focused on building and supporting a more just society through community radio, particularly by impoverished groups of society. This includes el Centro Juvenil, or youth center, which teaches adolescents how to make their own radio.
Radio Kids (http://www.radiokids.com.ar/): Another Argentinian group, Radio Kids worked with young children and their families to produce creative, recreational, and educational radio, specifically targeting youth in its base of Buenos Aires.
Sisichakunaq Pukllaynin (http://www.pukllasunchis.org/radio/): Working with youth near Cuzco, Perú, this program of la Asociación Pukllasunchis helps young people learn and master radio production skills.
Taller de Paz (http://www.tallerdepaz.org): Focused on helping youth create peaceful solutions to problems, Taller de Paz uses art and digital media to help the youth and communities near Bogotá, Columbia.
Vwa timoun yo/Our Own Voice (http://www.vwatimounyo.org/english/about.php): Based in Haiti, this program focuses on supporting and sharing the work of young journalists in Haiti, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua.