Without Boundaries Film Festival PRESENTED BY DIVERSIFIED

Women represent roughly one-third—or fewer—of the professionals working behind the screens in tech and media, despite driving some of the most vital innovation in these industries. From broadcast control rooms and editing suites to animation labs, camera rigs, and creative studios, their contributions are everywhere—but their stories are too often left untold.

The Without Boundaries: Behind the Screens Film Festival was created to change that. This is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action. We’re cultivating a space where women in tech and media are seen, heard, and valued. A space that honors the voices shaping our digital world, uplifts underrepresented storytellers, and sparks the imagination of the next generation.

This mission-based, digital-first film festival is a curated screening series and competition designed to spotlight bold, meaningful stories that challenge the status quo, inspire change, and showcase what’s possible—without boundaries.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking short films that spotlight and amplify the stories of women working behind the scenes in Tech and Media:

Tech (e.g. Software Engineer, UX/UI Designer, Installation Technician)
Audiovisual Production (e.g. Camera Operator, Lighting Technician, Sound Engineer)
Broadcast (e.g. Technical Director, Video Editor, Broadcast Engineer)
Film (e.g. Script Supervisor, Assistant Director, Production Designer)
Digital media and Content Creation (e.g. Social Media Producer, Digital Content Strategist, Motion Graphics Designer)
Plus countless other behind-the-screens roles that power tech and media from the inside out!

Whether your story is rooted in lived experience, imagined through fiction, or captured in a fearless documentary—we want to see it. If your work helps shift the narrative, celebrates innovation, or inspires the next wave of creators, it belongs here.

Key Dates

Submission Deadline: August 29, 2025
Notification Date: September 15, 2025
NAB Show NY Screening: October 22–23, 2025

Future Forward: Visionaries in Action

For students, aspiring professionals, and early-career participants.

Are you the next big thinker in Media, AV or technology? This category is for you! Share your groundbreaking ideas, theories, or visions for the future and how they could transform the industry. The winner will receive a monetary prize or scholarship to bring their idea to life.

Judging Criteria:

Innovation and Originality (30%): Does the idea present a fresh, creative perspective?
Vision and Potential Impact (30%): How impactful could this idea be if brought to life?
Clarity of Concept (20%): Is the idea clearly articulated and easy to understand?
Feasibility and Actionability (20%): Is the idea practical, with a clear plan for execution?

Sample Topics:

“My Big Idea for Changing the World with STEAM”
“The Future I Want to Create: Innovations and Solutions for Tomorrow”
“Reimagining STEAM: How Diversity Will Drive the Next Big Breakthrough”

Navigating Success: Stories of Growth and Advocacy

For all levels, from students to professionals.

This is your space to share personal stories, advice, and actionable insights on overcoming challenges in the workplace, academia, or society. Inspire others with your journey and lessons learned.

Judging Criteria:

Authenticity and Relatability (30%): Does the story feel genuine and heartfelt?
Insight and Practical Advice (30%): Does it offer valuable lessons or strategies?
Contribution to Equity (20%): How does the conversation around equity in STEAM advance?
Engagement and Storytelling (20%): Is the story compelling and well-told?

Sample Topics:

“Breaking Free from the Sticky Floor: How I Advanced My Career”
“Advice for My Younger Self: Navigating STEAM as a Woman”
“Growing Equity in STEAM: Strategies and Ideas for Change”
“Allies on the Journey: The Importance of Mentorship and Support”

Bold and Brave: Pioneering Projects and Innovations

For professionals, researchers, and leaders in AV, media and technology.

Have you taken bold risks, pushed boundaries, or driven innovation? Showcase your impactful projects, whether through social good, technological advancement, or industry disruption.

Judging Criteria:

Level of Innovation (30%): How creative and unique was the project?
Impact and Outcomes (30%): What was the result of the project?
Challenges Overcome (20%): How did you navigate obstacles and risks?
Presentation and Communication (20%): Is the project presented clearly and effectively?

Sample Topics:

“Doing What’s Never Been Done Before: Inside My Breakthrough Project”
“Tech for Good: Women Innovating for Social Impact”
“Fail Forward: How Risk-Taking Led to Success in My Career”
“The Most Creative Idea I Pursued: Lessons Learned from Thinking Outside the Box”

Accelerating Action: Shaping the Future of AV, media, and technology

Open to all participants.

This category is all about forward-thinking ideas and initiatives that can drive immediate change in the industry. Share your vision for what’s next and how we can accelerate progress together.

Judging Criteria:

Boldness of Vision (30%): Does the idea challenge existing paradigms?
Potential for Immediate Impact (30%): Could it lead to meaningful change in the near term?
Scalability and Broader Impact (20%): Can the idea be scaled or replicated?
Persuasiveness and Call to Action (20%): Does it inspire the audience to take action?

Sample Topics:

“Accelerating Action: My Vision for a More Inclusive Media, AV and Technology Community”
“From Concept to Change: How My Idea Can Impact the Industry”
“The Future of Innovation: Why Diversity Will Lead the Way”

Future Forward: Visionaries in Action

For students, aspiring professionals, and early-career participants.

Are you the next big thinker in Media, AV or technology? This category is for you! Share your groundbreaking ideas, theories, or visions for the future and how they could transform the industry. The winner will receive a monetary prize or scholarship to bring their idea to life.

Judging Criteria:

Innovation and Originality (30%): Does the idea present a fresh, creative perspective?
Vision and Potential Impact (30%): How impactful could this idea be if brought to life?
Clarity of Concept (20%): Is the idea clearly articulated and easy to understand?
Feasibility and Actionability (20%): Is the idea practical, with a clear plan for execution?

Sample Topics:

“My Big Idea for Changing the World with STEAM”
“The Future I Want to Create: Innovations and Solutions for Tomorrow”

“Reimagining STEAM: How Diversity Will Drive the Next Big Breakthrough”

Navigating Success: Stories of Growth and Advocacy

This category focuses on personal stories, insights, and actionable advice. Judges should look for authenticity, relatability, and the potential to inspire others on their journey.

Criteria:

Authenticity and Relatability (30%)
- Does the story feel genuine and heartfelt? Can the audience connect with the challenges and experiences shared?

Insight and Practical Advice (30%)
- Does the submission offer valuable lessons, strategies, or advice that others can apply to their own careers or advocacy efforts?

Contribution to Equity (20%)
- How does the story contribute to the broader conversation around equity in STEAM? Does it highlight tangible steps or actions taken to create a more inclusive environment?

Engagement and Storytelling (20%)
- Is the story compelling and well-told? Does it capture the audience’s attention and inspire reflection or action?

Bold and Brave: Pioneering Projects and Innovations

This category is about showcasing completed projects or initiatives led by women in STEAM. Judges should evaluate the level of innovation, the impact made, and the challenges overcome.

Criteria:

Level of Innovation (30%)
- How creative and unique was the project or initiative? Did it push boundaries or challenge the status quo in the field?

Impact and Outcomes (30%)
- What was the result of the project? Did it make a significant difference in the organization, industry, or society? How did it drive change or deliver value?

Challenges Overcome (20%)
- Were there significant obstacles or risks involved? How did the participant navigate these challenges, and what did they learn from the experience?

Presentation and Communication (20%)
- Is the project presented clearly and effectively? Does the participant convey the story of the project in a way that engages the audience and highlights key achievements?

Accelerating Action: Shaping the Future of STEAM

This category is focused on forward-thinking ideas and initiatives aimed at driving immediate change. Judges should look for bold visions, practical plans, and the potential for immediate action.

Criteria:

Boldness of Vision (30%)
- Does the idea challenge existing paradigms or introduce a new way of thinking? How ambitious and forward-thinking is the concept?
Potential for Immediate Impact (30%)
- Could this idea lead to meaningful change in the near term? Is it actionable, with a clear plan for implementation?
Scalability and Broader Impact (20%)
- Does the idea have the potential to be scaled or replicated? Could it drive change beyond a single organization or community?
Persuasiveness and Call to Action (20%)
- Is the presentation compelling and persuasive? Does it motivate the audience to take action or support the initiative?

Awards & Recognition

At the Without Boundaries Film Festival, filmmakers do not submit to specific award categories. Instead, each project is reviewed holistically and considered for a range of honors that celebrate bold storytelling, innovation, and alignment with the festival’s mission. These awards recognize the powerful impact of stories that inspire, challenge, and redefine what’s possible behind the screens.

Finalists will receive a trip to New York City for a private screening and special recognition at NAB Show NY (October 22–23, 2025). This exclusive experience offers the chance to connect with industry leaders and fellow creators while celebrating your work on a national stage.

Trip includes flight, hotel accommodations, and NAB event access. Winners will also receive a $1,500 prize, awarded as either cash or a donation to their school or NextLVL Learning—based on the recipient’s preference.

Future Forward: Visionaries in Action

For students, aspiring professionals, and early-career participants.

Are you the next big thinker in Media, AV or technology? This category is for you! Share your groundbreaking ideas, theories, or visions for the future and how they could transform the industry. The winner will receive a monetary prize or scholarship to bring their idea to life.

Judging Criteria:

Innovation and Originality (30%): Does the idea present a fresh, creative perspective?
Vision and Potential Impact (30%): How impactful could this idea be if brought to life?
Clarity of Concept (20%): Is the idea clearly articulated and easy to understand?
Feasibility and Actionability (20%): Is the idea practical, with a clear plan for execution?

Sample Topics:

“My Big Idea for Changing the World with STEAM”
“The Future I Want to Create: Innovations and Solutions for Tomorrow”

“Reimagining STEAM: How Diversity Will Drive the Next Big Breakthrough”

Navigating Success: Stories of Growth and Advocacy

This category focuses on personal stories, insights, and actionable advice. Judges should look for authenticity, relatability, and the potential to inspire others on their journey.

Criteria:

Authenticity and Relatability (30%)
- Does the story feel genuine and heartfelt? Can the audience connect with the challenges and experiences shared?

Insight and Practical Advice (30%)
- Does the submission offer valuable lessons, strategies, or advice that others can apply to their own careers or advocacy efforts?

Contribution to Equity (20%)
- How does the story contribute to the broader conversation around equity in STEAM? Does it highlight tangible steps or actions taken to create a more inclusive environment?

Engagement and Storytelling (20%)
- Is the story compelling and well-told? Does it capture the audience’s attention and inspire reflection or action?

Bold and Brave: Pioneering Projects and Innovations

This category is about showcasing completed projects or initiatives led by women in STEAM. Judges should evaluate the level of innovation, the impact made, and the challenges overcome.

Criteria:

Level of Innovation (30%)
- How creative and unique was the project or initiative? Did it push boundaries or challenge the status quo in the field?

Impact and Outcomes (30%)
- What was the result of the project? Did it make a significant difference in the organization, industry, or society? How did it drive change or deliver value?

Challenges Overcome (20%)
- Were there significant obstacles or risks involved? How did the participant navigate these challenges, and what did they learn from the experience?

Presentation and Communication (20%)
- Is the project presented clearly and effectively? Does the participant convey the story of the project in a way that engages the audience and highlights key achievements?

Accelerating Action: Shaping the Future of STEAM

This category is focused on forward-thinking ideas and initiatives aimed at driving immediate change. Judges should look for bold visions, practical plans, and the potential for immediate action.

Criteria:

Boldness of Vision (30%)
- Does the idea challenge existing paradigms or introduce a new way of thinking? How ambitious and forward-thinking is the concept?
Potential for Immediate Impact (30%)
- Could this idea lead to meaningful change in the near term? Is it actionable, with a clear plan for implementation?
Scalability and Broader Impact (20%)
- Does the idea have the potential to be scaled or replicated? Could it drive change beyond a single organization or community?
Persuasiveness and Call to Action (20%)
- Is the presentation compelling and persuasive? Does it motivate the audience to take action or support the initiative?

Festival Awards

The Unbound Voice Award

Top Honor – Best of the Festival

Awarded to the most powerful story of the festival—one that defies convention, uplifts unheard voices, and reimagines what’s possible. This honor goes to a film, filmmaker, or storyteller who truly embodies the mission of the Without Boundaries Film Festival.

The Catalyst
Award

Recognizing a film that serves as a spark—igniting ideas, emotion, and momentum to accelerate action.

The Script to Screen Award

Best Narrative Film

For the story that begins as a spark on the page and becomes a force on the screen. This award celebrates bold, imaginative fiction—stories that challenge the expected, stir the soul, and carry the fearless spirit of storytelling without boundaries.

The Storytruth Award

Best Documentary Film

Awarded to a non-fiction film that exposes, educates, or inspires through fearless documentation of truth and lived experience.

The Rising Voice Award

Best Student Film

Celebrating the work of a visionary Creator aged 16–21 enrolled as a full-time student. This award honors emerging talent telling boundary-breaking stories with authenticity, curiosity, and creative power

Rules & Guidelines at a Glance

Short films only – maximum runtime: 15 minutes
Open to creators aged 16 and up
Creators of all gender identities are welcome, but submissions must center the story of a woman, women, or someone who identifies as such
Currently accepting submissions from North America only
Language: English, or must include accurate English subtitles
Formats welcome:
- Narrative
- Documentary
- Student
- Animation
- Experimental
- Mixed Media
- Digital-first (e.g., YouTube, reels, social storytelling)
All submissions must be original works (.mp4 or .mov format)
No nudity, profanity, violence, or explicit content

FAQ

Who is eligible to submit a video to the Without Boundaries Film Festival?

Creators aged 16 and older, of any gender identity, based in North America are eligible to submit—so long as their project shines a spotlight on a woman or women working behind the screens in tech and media.

Is there a prize for being selected as a finalist at the festival?

Yes. Selected films will be screened at a private event in New York City, filmmakers and storytellers will be celebrated during a special presentation at NAB Show NY (October 22–23, 2025). This recognition includes a flight to NYC, hotel accommodations, and full access to NAB Show NY. In addition, a select group of winners will receive a $1,500 prize, awarded either as cash or as a donation to their school or to NextLVL Learning.

How is my entry judged?

Entries are judged on originality, storytelling, alignment with the festival’s mission, and overall impact.

Is there an age requirement?

Yes, all filmmakers must be at least 16 years old to submit.

Are high school students judged the same as professionals?

No. Filmmakers and storytellers aged 16–21 who are full-time students are eligible for a dedicated Rising Voice Award, but their work is also considered for all other festival awards.

Can young men/boys submit films?

Yes, creators of any gender identity may submit, but the story must center on a woman, women, or someone who identifies as such.

Who retains the copyright and right to distribute the video?

The creators retain full copyright and distribution rights to their work.

Can I enter more than one video?

Yes, multiple entries are welcome so long as each meets the eligibility requirements.

Is this only open to individuals or are teams allowed?

Teams are welcome to submit, as long as one person is designated as the primary contact.

I am producing my film as part of a class or mentorship program for students in media production. Can I submit that film?

Yes, films created through educational or mentorship programs are eligible for submission.

What if I have more questions that were not answered in this FAQ?

Please contact the festival team directly through the contact form on our website.

Lights, Camera, Action: Share Your Story!

General Submission Requirements:

Format: Submissions should be in the form of a video, no longer than 5-10 minutes.
Eligibility: Open to high school students, college students, and professionals studying or working in the fields of media, broadcast, or technology.
Criteria for All Categories: Videos will also be evaluated on technical quality (audio, visuals, editing), but this will be a secondary consideration to the content and message, especially for student submissions.

General Submission Requirements:

Format: All submissions must be original short films, 15 minutes or less in length, in .mp4 or .mov format.

Eligibility: Open to Creators aged 16 and older, of any gender identity, based in North America. Submissions must spotlight and amplify the story of a woman—or someone who identifies as such—working behind the screens in tech and media. This includes audiovisual production, broadcast, film, digital content, and other behind-the-scenes roles.

Evaluation Criteria: All submissions will be evaluated for originality, storytelling, and alignment with the festival’s mission. Technical quality (audio, visuals, editing) will be considered, but content and message are prioritized—especially for student Creators.

Submit Your Film

About Diversified

Diversified is a global leader in audio visual and media innovation, recognized for designing and building the world’s most experiential environments. Our award-winning team specializes in delivering solutions for the most complex, large-scale and immersive installations. Serving a global clientele that includes major media organizations and retailers, sports and live performance venues, corporate enterprises, and government agencies, Diversified partners with clients to create spaces that bring people together and keep them coming back.

About AbelCine

AbelCine believes in the power of the moving image to evoke, enlighten and inspire. They understand the dedication and craft that goes into creating compelling visual media, as well as the technology and tools required to bring projects to life. Today, the influence of cinema is everywhere. The latest digital tools produce cinematic imagery at the highest technical and creative standards. Staying on top of the technology, the shifts in the industry and how to bring them together can be a challenge. That's what AbelCine is there for - to figure it all out and be a resource to draw on while you stay focused on creating compelling visual media.