Applications are now open for the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective for young filmmakers. This rolling recruitment targets emerging filmmakers aged 18-35 from select African and European countries. You can produce short documentaries between 3 and 15 minutes, along with social media edits and event highlights. These works focus on youth-led advocacy, community impact, and social transformation. Grants range from €765 to €1800 per project, organized by Restless Development. This chance lets you tell stories that make a real difference. Read on for details about eligibility, locations, goals, requirements, budget, and how to apply.
The program builds a diverse database of filmmakers for project-based work. Selected creators will document youth-led efforts and social change. Your short documentaries, social media clips, and event videos will boost young voices in cross-continental talks. You will also team up with global partners and grow your portfolio. It is perfect if you love storytelling with social impact. Applications run on a rolling basis with no set deadline.
This opportunity is open to filmmakers in the following countries:
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Belgium
- Cameroon
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Nigeria
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- South Sudan
- Tanzania
- Tunisia
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
The project goal centers on young people and youth-led groups. They advocate for their issues at local, national, continental, and cross-continental levels. This includes the AU-EU partnership in Africa. Filmmakers help by sharing powerful stories that highlight these efforts.
Ideal filmmakers should have:
- Must be 18-35 years old at the start of the assignment.
- Proven track record in filming human impact stories, documentaries, and outdoor events with a youth focus.
- Proficiency in camera operation, sound capture, and editing.
- All necessary tools and equipment to complete the work.
- Ability to provide technical support, like guidance on storytelling techniques and narrative structure.
- Availability to travel.
- Familiarity with the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab or similar youth programs is a plus.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to use feedback well.
Restless Development offers a maximum budget of €765 to €1800 per project. Filmmakers invoice based on deliverables and quality. Payments follow this schedule:
| Payment Stage | Percentage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Start of production | 50% | Half of the total budget (€765-€1800) upfront |
| Completion and acceptance | 50% | Remaining amount after approval of deliverables |
All payments depend on progress, timelines, and quality checks.
To apply, visit the official AU-EU Youth Voices Lab webpage. Follow these steps:
- Review requirements and check your eligibility.
- Prepare a portfolio of youth-centered storytelling samples.
- Submit your application through the link on a rolling basis, no deadline.
- Highlight your experience with social impact projects.
Focus on strong narrative structure in your samples for the best chance.
You might also like the GYBN Transformative Futures Fellowships 2026 for young changemakers. It is fully funded, much like this program. The Africa CDC Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme 2026 offers similar support for youth in biomanufacturing. Both stress youth leadership and funding, so check them out too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab?
Emerging filmmakers aged 18-35 from select African and European countries like Burkina Faso, Kenya, Nigeria, and Belgium with experience in youth-focused documentaries.
What will selected filmmakers produce?
Short documentaries (3-15 minutes), social media edits, and event highlights about youth-led advocacy and community change.
What is the budget and payment schedule?
Grants range from €765 to €1800 per project, with 50% paid at the start of production and 50% after approval of deliverables.
How do I apply?
Check eligibility, prepare a portfolio of youth storytelling samples, and submit via the official webpage on a rolling basis with no deadline.

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